Utah quake information? Now, there’s an app for that

Red Cross » Users can get real-time alerts and a “Shake Zone” map on tablets, smartphones.

By Bob Mims

| The Salt Lake Tribune

First Published Sep 25 2012 09:26 am • Last Updated Sep 25 2012 10:37 pm

Seismologists have been warning for years that the Wasatch Front is due for a major earthquake. Now, the American Red Cross has an app for that.

Maxine Margaritis, chief executive for the American Red Cross Utah Region, said Tuesday that the new app brings real-time alerts and a "Shake Zone Impact Map" to smart phone and tablet computer users living in seismically active regions.

Available in English or Spanish, the app is the third in a series created by the Red Cross for use on both iPhone and Android platforms. The Earthquake App comes on the heels of the highly successful First Aid and Hurricane apps, which have been downloaded more than 1 million times.

"This newest app gives instant access to local and real time information on what to do before, during and after earthquakes," Margaritis said. "Residents will receive earthquake notifications and can monitor activity where other family and friends reside. People who do not live in earthquake-prone areas can have peace of mind knowing you’ll have instant information about loved ones."

Features of the new app include:

• Earthquake notifications showing the epicenter, magnitude and intensity maps.

• One touch "I’m safe" messaging that allows users to broadcast reassurance to family and friends via social media outlets that they are out of harm’s way.

• Options to view the app in English or Spanish based on user handset settings.

• Locations of open Red Cross shelters.

• Steps and checklists people can use to create a family emergency plan.

• Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity.

• Information on events that may happen after earthquakes such as fires and tsunamis.

• Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm.

The Earthquake App can be found in the Apple App Store (http://bit.ly/Ut5f5A ) and the Google Play Store for Android (http://bit.ly/NNRdNF ) by searching for American Red Cross.

Bob Mims

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