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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Create or Update your Digital Kit

When disaster strikes, your phone can help you get information that you need to stay safe and connect with your loved ones.  Check out the apps and tips below that can help you weather the storm.

 

Plans and Resources

  • Program in Key Phone Numbers:  Make sure that your phone is up to date with contact information for your friends and loved ones, especially those that you would rely on in an emergency. Make sure your plan includes knowing who you will count on and who is counting on you - and make sure that you have all the contact number that you might need to help each other in an emergency. 
  • Remember to Text:  When disaster strikes, phone lines may be jammed.  Remember that texting can help you check on your friends and family - and leave the lines open for emergency response personnel.
  • Learn about Red Cross Safe and Well:  If you are separated from your loved ones, you can register as safe at Red Cross Safe and Well.  Take some time now to learn about the service and make sure that the people you count on - and the ones who count on you - know about it as well.  Check out www.redcross.org/safeandwell for more details
  • Check out Apps from your City, County or State:  Many states and localities have developed apps that can help you make a plan, identify resources in your area or even get involved in local preparedness and response activities.  Check with your county or city government and see what resources they have available.
  • Friend or Follow your State and  Local Authorities:  State and local public health and emergency management agencies can be some of your best resources for staying safe and healthy in a disaster.  Connect with them on Facebook and Twitter to stay up-to-date on public health and safety information before, during and after a hurricane. Check out our Stay Connected page for resources from your state.
  • Upload Important Documents to a Cloud Drive:  In a disaster, make sure that you've got the information that you need in case your records get destroyed.  This includes copies of identification documents, pictures of your family members and pets, a list of prescriptions, and even basic financial information.

Mobile Apps

Add some disaster mobile apps to your phone now so that you have lifesaving information at your fingertips when you need it most.

American Red Cross Hurricane App Icon
Hurricane
By American Red Cross
This app includes a preparedness information, location-based NOAA Weather Alerts, "I'm Safe" messaging, locations of Red Cross shelters and more.  App comes with lots of pre-loaded content that you can access without an internet connection.
Get the App:  Android | iPhone/iPad
FEMA App Icon

FEMA
By FEMA
The FEMA App contains disaster safety tips, an interactive emergency kit list, emergency meeting location information, and a map with open shelters and open FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers.
Get the App Android | iPhone/iPad | Blackberry
SAMHSA Behavioral Health Disaster App
SAMHSA Behavioral Health Disaster App
By SAMHSA
The app is designed for behavioral health professionals and provides access to evidenced-based mental health and substance use information, tools, and resources for use in the field.
Get the App:  Android | iPhone/iPad | Blackberry
My Family app icon myfamily
By healthfinder.gov
Keep your family's health plan and priorities, including your prescriptions, up to date on your phone and you'll have them when you need them in an emergency.  
Get the App:  iPhone/iPad
American Red Cross First Aid App First Aid
By American Red Cross
Hurricanes can lead to all sorts of injuries.  the First Aid app gives you instant access to the information you need to handle many common first aid emergencies.  App includes pre-loaded content, videos and step by step instructions.
Get the App:  Android | iPhone/iPad
For more apps that can help individuals, emergency response professionals, and others better plan for and respond to emergencies, check out Disaster Apps for Your Digital GoBag. ​

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  • This page last reviewed: August 06, 2020