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New flood app brings Red Cross safety information to mobile devices

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Soma Tah
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WASHINGTON, USA: The American Red Cross announced its new Flood App to help save lives and reduce losses from floods and flash floods.

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This free app gives iPhone, iPad and Android smart phone users instant access to local and real-time information, so they know what to do before, during and after a flood. The content is available in English and Spanish based on the user's language settings on their mobile device. The app includes location-based, audible NOAA flood and flash flood watches and warnings - even if the app is closed.

"The alerts in the app will help save lives by notifying people so they can gather their loved ones and head to safety," said Jim Judge, preparedness expert, member of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Committee and chair of its Preparedness Sub-Council.

"Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States, so it's important for people to know what supplies to have on hand and what to do if an event occurs."

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Other features of the app include One-touch "I'm safe" messaging that allows users to send a message letting family and friends know that they are out of harm's way;Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity;Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm to let others know where you are;Locations of open Red Cross shelters;Real-time recovery resources for returning home and cleaning up; andBadges users can earn through interactive quizzes and share on social networks.

The new Red Cross Flood App is being released during National Flood Safety Awareness Week, which runs from March 16-22.

The app is the latest in the series of Red Cross emergency preparedness apps that put lifesaving information right in the hands of people whenever and wherever they need it.

The expert advice in Red Cross apps, which also includes apps for First Aid, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes and other services, has been used to help save lives during disasters and medical emergencies. Red Cross apps have been downloaded on nearly 4 million mobile devices.

 

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