Tag Archive: FEMA app

Disaster Reporter Added to the FEMA App

October 1, 2013

FEMA recently added a photo-sharing feature to the FEMA app. With “Disaster Reporter,” people can upload GPS tagged photos from a disaster area and submit them to a public map. This feature allows people, including first responders and community members, to share real-time disaster-related information.

According to an article in Mashable, all submitted photos will go through an approval process to ensure images are relevant, authentic and don’t disclose any personal information.

 

 

 

The FEMA app is free and currently available for download in the Google Play store or the iTunes App store. You can view FEMA’s disaster reporter map on the FEMA website.

 

Of course you hope to never see a photo of your home (or anyone’s home!) on the FEMA disaster map. However, if disaster should strike your community, there are preventative steps you can take to mitigate flood damage, such as installing flood vents. Flood vents can help reduce structural damage to your home by equalizing internal and external floodwater pressure. To learn more about our FEMA compliant flood vents, contact us.

Using Technology to Prepare for Disasters

July 9, 2013

Jason Lindesmith, Social Media Lead for Public Affairs, FEMA, recently blogged about how technology has helped him get through several disasters, including Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Sandy. In his post, he reveals the technology tools he found most useful.

1. Staying powered up

Lindesman found that one of his best tools was a weather radio, especially when his power was knocked out for several days. His model had small solar panels and a hand crank for charging as well as multiple ports for charging other devices. Cranking his radio for 1-2 minutes would give him a 20-30 minute charge on his cell phone.

2. Useful emergency apps

Lindesmith particularly liked the Red Cross Hurricane app, the FEMA app and Microsoft HelpBridge. But don’t wait for a storm to hit before downloading them. Because Lindesmith had downloaded the apps well in advance, he was able to access all previously downloaded safety information, even when cell networks were unavailable.

3. Access to information is key

During Hurricane Irene, Lindesmith found himself relying heavily on social media to get the latest updates from towns, cities, school districts, local elected officials, local media, the department of transportation and others.

But he discovered that non-techie approaches were equally helpful. He learned a lot about the local situation just from talking to neighbors. He suggests getting to know your neighbors now so you can more easily share information should a disaster occur.

While you’re getting technology ready, don’t forget to take preventative steps to mitigate damage to your home. Flood vents are a great way to reduce the risk of structural damage when flood waters rise. Our FEMA compliant food vents are constructed in the U.S.A. For more information about Flood Solutions flood vents, contact us.

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