Whether it’s quickly accessing life-saving medical information, staying connected when communication systems are down, or finding your way to safety without internet access, the right tools at your fingertips can truly make or break your situation.
Below are some essential (and free) emergency preparedness apps you can download today to significantly increase your readiness:
1.) iFirstAid
Best For: First aid guidance
The iFirstAid app provides easy-to-follow instructions for handling a wide range of medical situations. The app will download all available information when you launch it for the first time, so you’ll always have it available.
Features:
- Step-by-step guides with instructional images (CPR, bleeding, burns, eye injuries, etc.)
- Offline access, so you can use it even without an internet connection
- “Call for Help” button that pulls up your location and emergency contact numbers (ie. Poison Control)
2.) Zello PTT Walkie Talkie
Best For: Communication during emergencies
Zello is a Push-to-Talk (PTT) app that turns your smartphone into a walkie-talkie that uses a fraction of bandwidth compared to traditional voice phone calls. In emergency situations where cellular networks may be overloaded or unreliable, Zello can be an alternative for communicating with your family when traditional phone calls or texts may fail.
Features:
- Voice communication over Wi-Fi or cellular data (can work without a cell signal if using a Wi-Fi network)
- Group channels to communicate with multiple people at once (either public or you can set up your own private channel)
- Can be used in areas with limited network coverage
Blog: How to Use Zello During an Emergency
3.) FEMA App
Best For: Staying informed during emergencies
The FEMA app is a must-have tool for staying informed about emergency alerts and disaster-related updates. It provides real-time information about disasters, evacuation routes, and shelters, making it easier for you to respond swiftly and safely during a crisis.
Features:
- Push notifications for local alerts and updates on ongoing disasters
- Maps for locating shelters and evacuation routes
- Emergency kit and preparedness checklists
4.) Evernote
Best For: Organizing preparedness plans and checklists
Evernote is a note-taking app where you can organize all of your preparedness efforts in one place. From emergency plans and evacuation routes to supply inventories and contact lists, Evernote makes it easy to keep everything organized and accessible.
Features:
- Create and organize notes, checklists, and documents
- Attach photos, voice memos, and files for easy reference
- Sync notes across multiple devices
- Use tags and notebooks to categorize your preparedness plans
5.) HazAdapt
Best for: Creating personalized preparedness plans
HazAdapt is designed to help you and your community prepare for and adapt to hazards and climate-related risks specific to your region. This app provides information on what to do before, during, and after disaster events.
Features:
- Customize your strategy for supplies, evacuation routes, and communication plans.
- Gives practical advice on reinforcing homes and adopting practices to reduce risk.
- Sends real-time updates and notifications about nearby disasters and weather events.
- Connects users with their local community to share preparedness tips and organize resilience efforts.
6.) PlantNet
PlantNet is a mobile app where you can identify plants by simply taking a photo. With a vast database of plant species, it provides instant recognition and detailed information about various plants, including their scientific names, characteristics, and potential uses.
It could be invaluable in a disaster situation, helping you identify edible plants, medicinal herbs, or potentially harmful ones. NOTE: It can be used offline if you download Embedded Data (do this while you still have internet access!)
Features:
- Upload photos to identify plants
- Access a wide range of plant species to recognize both helpful and harmful plants.
- Share your plant findings to help others identify plants in your area
- Can be used offline and can save identified species in your own library
7.) Apple and Google Maps
You likely already have these! These apps have an offline functionality, but you’ll want to check regularly for updates and download different areas separately. Having offline maps will allow you to navigate to safe areas, locate shelters, or find essential resources without needing an internet connection.
Features:
- Download maps in advance for use without an internet connection.
- Access turn-by-turn directions and real-time navigation, even when offline.
- Easily locate nearby shelters, hospitals, and emergency services.
- Plan and follow evacuation routes, even if cellular service is down.
