Red Cross launches tornado app for smart phones - 13abc.com Toledo (OH) News, Weather and Sports

PRESS RELEASE:

TOLEDO, OHIO - Monday, March 4, 2013— The American Red Cross is urging residents in Northwest Ohio to make sure households, schools and business are prepared for possible severe weather including rain, strong winds and possible tornados.

"Listen to weather alerts and designate a safe space where people can gather for the duration of the storm," said Kenneth R. Robinson, Regional Chief Operating Officer and Emergency Services Director for the Northwest Ohio Region, "The area should be a basement, storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor away from windows."

Download Tornado App

The American Red Cross Tornado App is available in English or Spanish and gives iPhone, iPad and Android smart phone and tablet users instant access to local and real-time information, so they know what to do before, during and after a tornado.

The free app includes a high-pitched siren and "tornado warning!" alert that signals when a NOAA tornado warning has been issued. This feature allows users to make critical decisions and to take actions to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe even in the middle of the night. An "all clear!" alert lets users know when a tornado warning has expired or has been cancelled.

Other features of the app include:

• Location-based NOAA tornado, severe thunderstorm and flood watch and warning alerts;
• 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;
• Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity;
• Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm; and
• Locations of open Red Cross shelters.

"If a tornado is threatening your area, listen for alerts and warnings, grab your emergency preparedness kit and head to your designated safe area," Robinson added. "Be prepared to evacuate if necessary and have a communications plan in place with your family including an out-of-town contact."

The Tornado App, along with other apps, can be found in the Apply App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/mobileapps. People can go to redcross.org/tornado for more safety tips.