It’s probably no surprise that social media can be used for more than keeping up with friends and social events. It can be a helpful tool in times of desperation and disaster. The apps listed here may not be suitable for everyone, so do your own research to select apps that best suit your needs. It is also crucial to download any apps you may need before the disaster, as power and/or cellular service may be an issue once disaster strikes.
Several types of apps can be used to track storms and keep up to date on the latest news before a disaster occurs. Here are a few that could help you.
Local News - Your local news station app is a great tool for tracking weather and getting important disaster updates. Visit the app store to select your favorite news stations app.
American Red Cross – Has several app options for emergencies. There is the American Red Cross Emergency app that lets you monitor for more than 35 different severe weather and emergency alerts in your town, and other cities that matter to you. It is loaded with maps, alerts, and directions on how to make an emergency plan and execute it. There are other app options including the hurricane app, tornado app and earthquake app.
FEMA – The FEMA app is a good option to receive emergency alerts and information to help prepare before, stay safe during, and to get help after the storm. The app also provides locations of emergency shelters and disaster recovery centers nearby to help after the disaster.
Twitter – Another good option to get information is to follow trusted news and emergency sources on Twitter. Examples could include following your local United Way agency, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the National Weather Service, or FEMA. There are many options in addition to these.
Do you need housing or transportation after a disaster?
A few companies devote their platforms to disaster relief to help those who need immediate assistance.
As part of the Air BNB Disaster Relief Initiative, private homeowners can provide shelter rent free or at a discounted price for disaster victims, relief workers, and medical personnel through airbnb.org . A person can rent anything from a single room to an entire house while also specifying any disability needs.
Get Around is a free car sharing app that can be downloaded. It allows drivers to rent cars from private owners. This could be a great resource if your car is damaged or if you must relocate after the disaster. In the app you may not see your specific location listed day to day, but the company may update the app in the wake of a storm to expanded service areas.
Do you have specific tasks that you need assistance with after a disaster?
TaskRabbit is a free app that connects users instantly with someone skilled to perform the task requested. For example, after a disaster you can list a job within the app for repairs, errands, or another specific need. During non-disaster times, you may not see your specific location or disaster-related task listed in the app, but the app likely will be updated in the wake of a storm to include more service areas and tasks. The app is free, but services are typically priced by the hour. (Volunteers may offer help free of charge in the wake of a storm.)
Gas Buddy is a free app that allows you to see which gas stations near you have fuel. This can be useful when you try to fill your car before a storm hits as well as after when many stations may be closed due to lack of gas.
You also want to make sure you stay connected with friends, family, and neighbors during a disaster.
Nextdoor is an app that connects you to your neighbors so you can communicate during disasters. It may help in requesting basic needs, as well as help with finding missing pets and other items. This free app can be especially useful for senior citizens but should be downloaded by all parties before the disaster occurs.
Zello is another free app that can work with minimal cell phone coverage and the spottiest WiFi. Zello basically turns your phone into a two-way radio like a walkie talkie, often working when texts and phone calls will not go through.
Finally, a few helpful tips:
Make sure you download apps PRIOR to the storm. Keep in mind that anyone you may want to communicate with on an app must also have the app downloaded. Many apps require an email and pre-registration for use. Make sure all apps are downloaded and set up before the storm hits because cell service may be spotty or non-existent after a storm.
It’s important to allow apps access to your current location so you will get accurate alerts. Your location services will need to be turned ON for those specific apps to ensure the most accurate updates.
Take certain steps to keep your smartphone battery fully charged as long as possible. Fully charge your phone before the storm and have an external battery pack on hand that is also charged in advance. It is also helpful to use your phone as little as possible to save your battery in case the power goes out and you have no way to charge your device.
*The tools and apps listed are for informational purposes and may not be suitable for everyone. AARP & the SAVLP do not endorse any specific apps or companies. This list contains suggestions for you to investigate. Do your own research to determine which apps might be helpful for you. Social media is ever-changing; certain apps available today may not be available tomorrow.
Thank you to Heather Sands, Esq., for providing this information. Ms. Sands serves as SAVLP’s Disaster Response Project Coordinator. The foregoing is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should consult with a licensed Alabama lawyer to get advice about your particular situation.
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