As hurricane season approaches on June 1, one of the most important things families can do is make sure reliable emergency information is always within reach. For many people, that starts with the phone already in their pocket.
The free American Red Cross Emergency app was designed to help people prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters, including hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, wildfires and other emergencies. The app provides real-time weather alerts, safety information, shelter locations and preparedness tools all in one place.
The app allows users to receive official National Weather Service alerts for dangerous weather conditions in their area. Users can customize alerts based on the hazards they want to track and can monitor multiple locations at once, making it useful for families with loved ones living in different cities or states.
For hurricane season, the app includes hurricane tracking tools, live weather maps and step-by-step preparedness guidance before a storm arrives. Users can build emergency plans, create supply checklists and review what to do if evacuation orders are issued.
The app is also helpful after a storm passes. Users can locate open Red Cross shelters and disaster relief services through the interactive map feature.
Downloading and setting up the app only takes a few minutes:
- Download the free Emergency app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store by searching “American Red Cross Emergency.”
- Allow notifications so emergency alerts can be delivered to your phone.
- Add locations you want to monitor, such as your home, workplace, or relatives’ homes.
- Customize the types of alerts you want to receive.
- Explore the preparedness checklists, evacuation guidance and safety tips before hurricane season begins.
During hurricane season, conditions can change quickly. Having trusted information available in real time can help families make informed decisions when every minute matters.
The American Red Cross encourages everyone to download the Emergency app now and prepare before storms threaten South Florida and communities across the country.
Learn more about Red Cross mobile apps at redcross.org/apps.