[ad_1]
In addition to getting flashlights, bottled water and food, hurricane preparation nowadays includes stocking apps on your phone. For those who are on their way to Hurricane Florence in North Carolina and South Carolina, having the right apps can be vital during and after the storm. Here are some applications – mostly free – that you can download if you are in a hurricane zone:
For immediate assistance:
Crowdsource Rescue – Emergency phone lines, such as 9-1-1, can be flooded with calls during storms, and this app facilitates rescue efforts through the concept of "neighbors saving neighbors" ". The app was developed by Matthew Marchetti and Nate Larson while Harvey hit Houston too quickly to connect first responders and controlled volunteers to anyone who needed help. The application uses GPS tracking and allows civilian volunteers, such as those who may have a boat, to sign up and help evacuate other people in the area.
For shelter:
Harmany – This app was created in 2017 after hurricanes Harvey and Irma to connect people needing temporary shelters to those who wish to provide them during emergencies and evacuation events . On the application, guests can easily turn on and off their shelters and evacuees can search for shelters to find the best places to meet their needs. Harmany also provides integrated alerts and notifications for extreme weather, fire and other dangerous events.
Airbnb – Thanks to a program called OpenHomes, Airbnb allows guests to offer additional free space to those who need temporary accommodation. Airbnb then helps guests by checking, filtering and checking guests, reimbursing guests for any property damage, and providing phone support. Airbnb launched the OpenHomes program in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia for Hurricane Florence. These free registrations will be available until October 1st.
For updates:
Weather Underground – This application provides hyper-local forecasts and current conditions of local weather stations with customizable alerts. It also allows users to report weather and local risks to help inform other community members. The map interface is interactive, allowing users to choose different layers to display items such as rain accumulation, crowd reports and satellite images. It also allows users to track storms.
FEMA – This application provides real-time alerts from the National Meteorological Service, helps users locate emergency shelters and disaster recovery centers and includes various safety tips to help people stay safe during the day. A natural disaster. It allows users to register online for disaster assistance and share photos through the FEMA Journalists Service. This application is available in English and Spanish.
Hurricane by American Red Cross – This app allows users to monitor conditions in their area and let their family and friends know that they can use a customizable "I'm safe" alert for Facebook, Twitter, e-mail and text. The app includes a map where users can follow the hurricane route and find Red Cross shelters in the area. If you do not have data connectivity, the app also provides users with detailed instructions on what to do before / during / after the storm. It also comes with a Hurricane toolbox, with a strobe light, a flashlight and audible alerts.
iHeartRadio – For those who want to follow the latest local news or who are broadcasters like local news stations, this app will allow you to continue broadcasting as long as you are on duty.
For communication:
FireChat – No cellular service? No internet? No problem. FireChat is a free email application that works without these elements, relying on mesh networks. However, Bluetooth and WiFi must still be enabled, even if access is not available, for this application to work. In the application, users can create private groups of up to 50 people or create public chat rooms using hashtags.
Zello – In trend on Google Play and topping the ranking of "free" apps from Apple's App Store, Zello is a push-to-talk app, much like a walkie-talkie. Unlike walkie talkies, the number of users or channels is unlimited. It is available anywhere in the world, where there is a WiFi service or data service, and can be used as a two-way radio to communicate with family members or rescuers.
Nextdoor – This is a local application that keeps users informed of what's happening in their neighborhood and connects them with their neighbors. The application provides a secure environment where all neighbors are checked and used during Hurricane Harvey. In the application, neighbors can discuss evacuation routes, flood levels or ask for help from their neighbors, even when other methods of communication. Emergency such as 9-1-1 are down.
WhatsApp – During hurricanes or storms, telecommunication services may be limited, but WhatsApp connects to the internet to send messages between phones so that you can keep in touch with your friends, family and loved ones during the storm. It also allows you to make free voice and video calls.
Glympse – This is a real time location sharing application that allows users to share their exact trips with others, such as rescue groups.
Local News Apps – People on Hurricane Florence's path can search and download local news apps to get more local updates and storm information. (The WUNC app, for example).
For supplies:
GasBuddy – Normally, users can use the GasBuddy app to find the closest and cheapest service stations in their area. However, GasBuddy has recently activated its fuel availability monitoring system to make it easier for residents in hurricane-affected areas to find gas. The tracker can differentiate between stations that have no power, limited fuel options or the absence of fuel, as opposed to those that have both fuel and power. These services can also be found outside of the application here: http://tracker.gasbuddy.com.
For the well-being:
Red Cross Applications – The Red Cross offers a variety of applications that can be useful during hurricanes and other natural disasters. In addition to their Hurricane app, it has a Flood app that educates people about flood preparedness. In case of injury, they also have a first aid application that informs users about how to handle common first aid emergencies (they even have one for pet emergencies).
Headspace: Meditation – Meditation can be a form of self care to relieve stress and stay calm. This app offers guided meditation sessions and even includes an SOS function for moments of panic, anxiety or stress. The application comes with a free trial before starting to charge a subscription fee. Looking for a free alternative? Calm is another option for a mindfulness app, which includes over 100 guided meditations and music designed to help you focus, relax and sleep.
Amanda Morris is an intern at the NPR National Office.
Copyright NPR 2018.9(MDAyNzUwMDI2MDEyNTA3MTU5NzcyNTQyNA004))
[ad_2]
Source link
