Surviving the ride downtown New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina got me focused on finding the best apps that make a difference when natural disasters strike. Whenever a natural disaster strikes, no matter where it is, help is needed. Whether it might be gale-force winds causing havoc on roof tiles and knocking down trees onto houses, or flooding as well, people will need to find disaster restoration companies like 1-800 Water Damage to help them through. It might be difficult to find help in your location when a disaster like this strikes, hence why I’ve decided to note down the best emergency apps for your phone should you ever find yourself in this situation!
Here are the leading emergency apps that I keep on the ready.
First of all, it’s not an app, but the top source for official hurricane info starts at the National Hurricane Center. If you or your loved ones live anywhere near the path of potential tropical weather activity, bookmark the mobile site of the NHC. Tap this address and then save it. NHC Mobile
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/mobile/
Siren GPS app
On day 4 after being stuck in post-hurricane flooded waters from a levy break, data on phones went slower than you can imagine. Siren GPS app helps you share your GPS location with rescuers. Ask anyone who has been through a major disaster or storm, and you will learn that survivors end up in strange places. Common streets become unrecognizable especially when signs and landmarks are destroyed or under water. SirenGPS lets you give 911 dispatchers your GPS coordinates to give you a better chance of rescuers finding you. (iOS, android)
Disaster Alert App
Free mobile app provides individuals, families and loved ones with the info they need to stay safe anywhere in the world. Disaster Alert is powered by DisasterAWARE platform with updates to 18 different types of active hazards including flooding.
You can customize alerts and track hazards near people you love even if they live far away.
Waze App
Remember when streets are flooded and exit routes are hampered by unusual weather conditions, Waze navigation app can help steer you around dangerous areas and to safety. That’s because similar folks who’ve been down the troubled road report routes that are closed and the ones that can help get you on your way.
Zello Walkie Talkie App
Two-way radio communication (walkie-talkie) is a go-to mode of communication for emergency personnel like firemen, policemen, and such. While commercial two-way radio regulations (mentioned in this post here) may require such personnel to obtain an FFC license before using this type of communication, there are no such requirements for apps that can turn your phone into a walkie-talkie. Download the free app now and add all family members.
So long as there is cell service or wifi, you will be able to communicate on Zello quickly as a group. Each family member should keep their phone with them at all times along with their charger including a car 12v plug.
Gas Buddy App
When gas prices surge during and after a major storm, this will help show you not only who has gas for sale, but if there are long wait times and fair prices.
First Aid: American Red Cross Emergency App
Helps you deal with the unexpected wrath of a natural disaster with life-saving information. Tap the Emergency symbol at bottom of the screen to get going. This First Aid app gives anyone basic life-saving instructions when help from paramedics is far away. It now powers Alexa with Hurricane Alerts. Enable on the Alexa app then say “Alexa open Hurricane Alerts” If you want to prepare yourself more for any potential disaster, you may want to look and see if you can obtain a BSL (Basic Life Support Certification), a Basic Life Support certification is not available online, so you will need to do this on a face to face basis to be certified, you never know who it could help out.
Pet First App
Download and be able to handle many animal emergencies during a storm for dogs and cats. Locate the nearest emergency VET hospital. Cat & Dog First Aid app is free.
(iOS, Android)
BEST WEATHER APPS
MyRadar app
App that allows you to layer various types of weather information such as wind and precipitation to a very local live look with radar in high resolution. Set alerts to know when heavy rains or dangerous conditions are approaching your location.
DarkSky app
One of the best simple ways to see the weather up close in your immediate local area. DarkSky has alert settings to let you know how much rainfall and when it is forecast to hit you in up to minute. EX: “Heavy rain starting in 20 minutes and will last for 7 hours.”