CHARLESTON, W.Va. — From the train derailment in February, Winter Storm Thor in March to the flooding in April, the American Red Cross supported community members across West Virginia. Now, there’s an app for that.
The Red Cross introduced its new Emergency App Thursday that alerts individuals of any disasters in the area and to ensure safety.
“The idea is that the Red Cross is always wanting to make sure that not only are we responding to disasters, but that we’re preparing our citizens for being safe in the event of any emergency,” said Erica Mani, chief executive of the Red Cross West Virginia region.
The app allows a person to customize weather alerts, safety tips, and other information for 14 different types of emergencies.
Mani said the app includes a feature where someone can plug in the zip code of a family member or loved one to monitor impending weather or disasters.
“It allows that loved one to then respond back with a message of either ‘I’m safe’ or I’m not safe,'” she said.
Mani said the app could be a lifesaving tool because it provides information to a person about how to get to a safe place and how to make sure they put themselves in the best position in the event of a disaster.
“It’s all in one free and easy-to-use app,” said Mani.
The “Emergency by American Red Cross” App is now available in app stores for smartphones and tablets by searching for the American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/apps.