The American Red Cross today launches its official Earthquake App, putting lifesaving information right in the hands of people who live in or who visit earthquake prone areas
This free app is available in English or Spanish and is the third in a series created by the American Red Cross, the nation’s leader in emergency preparedness, for use on both iPhone and Android platforms.
The Earthquake App comes on the heels of the highly successful First Aid and Hurricane apps, which have been downloaded more than one million times.
“This newest app gives instant access to local and real time information on what to do before, during and after earthquakes,” said Paul Schulz, CEO, American Red Cross Los Angeles Region. “Users will receive earthquake notifications and can monitor activity where other family and friends reside. People who do not live in earthquake-prone areas can have peace of mind knowing you’ll have instant information about loved ones.”
New “Shake Zone Impact Maps” show users personalized local impact information to help them make crucial decisions.
Features of the app include:
· Earthquake notifications showing the epicenter, magnitude and intensity maps;
· One touch “I’m safe” messaging that allows users to broadcast reassurance to family and friends via social media outlets that they are out of harm’s way;
· Options to view the app in English or Spanish based on user handset settings;
· Locations of open Red Cross shelters;
· Simple steps and checklists people can use to create a family emergency plan;
· Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity;
· Information on events that may happen after earthquakes such as fires and tsunamis;
· Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm; and
· Badges users can earn through interactive quizzes and share on social networks.
The Earthquake App can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross.
