Red Cross launches new Earthquake App | News

(KFVS) - The American Red Cross has launched their official Earthquake App, putting lifesaving information right in the hands of people who live in or who visit earthquake prone areas.

The free app, available in English or Spanish, is the third in a series created by the American Red Cross. They say it is available for both iPhone and Android platforms. The app comes on the heels of the highly successful First Aid and Hurricane apps, which have been downloaded more than 1 million times.

“This newest app gives instant access to local and real time information on what to do before, during and after earthquakes.” said Jamie Koehler, Red Cross Emergency Service Director for the Southeast Missouri Chapter “Residents 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.”

According to the Red Cross, new "Shake Zone Impact Maps" give 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 user 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 one events that may happen after earthquakes such as fires and tsunamis
• Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm
• 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. Apps can help prepare people for disasters, but they are not a substitute for training. Red Cross First Aid and CPR/AED training empowers people to know how to respond to emergencies in case advanced medical help is delayed. People can visit redcross.org/takeaclass for course information and to register.

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