The news about Hurricane Sandy to be hitting on the East Coast within the next few days, have been all over. It’s always good to take precautions. Your smartphone, you can easily and cheaply turn into emergency readiness kit by downloading a few useful apps.
Hurricane Tracker: The app for iOS will help you keep your eye on Sandy’s path. It delivers the latest forecasts and National Hurricane Center data on the storm’s path. Also included: relevant Twitter feeds from storm centers, meteorologists and others.
iMap Weather Radio: This iOS and Android app tracks your location or follows a set of locations you select. The app will automatically alert you if a weather alert is issued for where you are. It’ll also let you tune in to local weather television broadcasts.
Your Plan app: This one will help you create an emergency plan before the storm strikes. You can download the Insurance Institute’s and use it to figure out what to pack in an emergency “go” kit, store contact numbers, figure out where to go and how to get there.
Red Cross: The iOS and Android app is packed with myriad features. It tracks weather information, it lets you broadcast an “I’m safe” message to friends and family with one button, and, if you need to evacuate your home, it maps the nearest Red Cross shelter. It also has a list of steps to take in case of an emergency.
Flashlight app: Finally, every emergency preparedness kit should have a flashlight. But for a quick backup solution, download a Flashlight app to turn your phone’s camera flash into a solid beam of light. There’s plenty out there for iOS and Android alike, but this free (ad-supported) is a favorite for iOS.
Hopefully, you won’t have to use most of these apps— but if you do, you’ll be glad you have any of these as backup.