Red Cross Hero Care Mobile App

The American Red Cross has a long history of supporting military members, veterans and their families. Now, the Red Cross has launched a new, free Hero Care App to provide instant access to vital Red Cross services anywhere in the world. Whether you’re the parent of a child joining the military, a military member, spouse or a veteran, the app will guide you to valuable resources and services that can help alleviate stress and provide important information right at your fingertips. The Hero Care App highlights the extensive array of services the Red Cross has available for members of the military, veterans and their families.



 •Some the important features of the app include:
o Request Red Cross emergency services including an emergency message or assistance with emergency travel or emergency financial aid.
o Securely and easily access information about their service member in the case of an emergency, including updated information as they move or change duty assignments.
o Access non-emergency Red Cross behavioral health assistance including financial assistance and free local workshops for military kids and spouses.
o Find local resources and information provided by trusted community partners like Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), Blue Star Families, Military Child Education Coalition, United Way, Goodwill, Easter Seals, and others.
o Locate information on key government resources such as MilitaryOneSource, VA Benefits and Services, Department of Labor VETS, the VA Caregiver Support Program, and SAMSHA Community Health Support Services.

  • Users can also connect with other Red Cross apps including the Emergency, First Aid and Blood apps.

 • Information in the app is available in both English and Spanish and a user can even use the app to share their own Red Cross stories and photos The Hero Care App is free of charge and available for both iOS and Android devices.

• To download to your smart phone or tablet, search for ‘American Red Cross’ in your app store, text GETHEROCARE to 90999 to receive a link to download the app or go to redcross.org/apps

The Reason You Need the Wildfire App: Red Flag Warnings

Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service.

By Kassidy Ketron, Intern

In the South Plains it’s not uncommon for Red Flag warnings, especially during the drought.

A red flag warning, according to National Weather Service, means that conditions are occurring or will occur which could lead to the development of large and dangerous fires.

Because of the dry climate, we think it’s important you know what to do in case there is a wildfire near your or your loved ones.

The American Red Cross’ Wildfire App for iPhone and Android is a great way to do that. It’s features include:

• Step-by-step instructions let you know what to do even before/during/after wildfires, even if there is no data connectivity.
• Wildfire News section with state-by-state links to all fire-fighting agencies’ Twitter feeds and websites ensuring the most recent developments on current wildfires.
• Click-to-call access to your state’s 511 network for the latest traffic information in case of evacuation.
• Let family and friends know you are okay with the customizable “I’m Safe” alert for Facebook, Twitter, email and text.
• Find open Red Cross shelters in your area when you need help.
• Stay safe when the lights are out with the Toolkit, including a strobe light, flashlight and audible alert functions.
• Prepare for the worst by learning how to assemble an emergency kit for your family in the event of power outage or evacuation.
• Earn badges that you can share with your friends and show off your wildfire knowledge with interactive quizzes.

Empower your family to stay safe and remain calm in an emergency by learning how to make and practice your family disaster plan.

• Meet with your family or household members.
• Discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that are most likely to happen where you live, learn, work and play.
• Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team.
• If a family member is in the military, plan how you would respond if they were deployed.
• Plan what to do in case you are separated during an emergency
• Plan what to do if you have to evacuate 

It’s never a bad idea to get ready for the wildest weather, especially if you live in West Texas, so download the Wildfire app and stay safe!

Be Prepared for National Flood Safety Awareness Week with the Flood App

By Kassidy Ketron

Intern

Unless you can swim like a fish or have the perfect boat for all occasions, chances are you might need to know more about what to do in the case of a flood.

In honor of National Flood Safety Awareness Week, what better time for the American Red Cross to release its newest Flood App to help save lives and reduce losses from floods and flash floods.

This app, available for iPhone, iPad and Android users, provides local and real-time information so you know what to do before during and after a flood.

Here are just a few of the awesome features this app includes:

• Audible NOAA [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration] flood and flash flood watches and warnings so people can gather loved ones and head to safety
• The alerts can save lives if users are asleep, away from radio, TV or in places where weather band radios may not work - users can even monitor alerts in other areas where loved ones live
• An “I’m safe” button allows users to send a message letting family and friends know they are out of harm’s way
• The app also has toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and alarm to let others know where you are and locations of open Red Cross shelters in case people need to evacuate
• Recovery resources are included for when you are able to return home and start cleaning up

 According to the National Flood Insurance Program, floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Anything from heavy rain and melting snow or ice can saturate the ground and cause floods or flash floods.

Contrary to popular belief, the American Red Cross does not have boats and cannot always get to victims during a flood.

For example, our SUVs, pickups and large vehicles are not save to drive the flood waters. Two feet of water can float most vehicles and, if the water is moving quickly, vehicles can be swept away.

Anytime you come to a flooded road, turn around and go the other way. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

While you may think you can walk through the floodwaters, just six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet. If the water is above your ankles, just turn around and go another way.

This app has resources developed by experts on how to prepare for flooding:

• The content is available in English and Spanish based on the user language settings on their mobile device.
• The app contains simple instructions and steps on what supplies to have, and how to develop an emergency plan if you have to stay put or if you must evacuate.
• It also features interactive quizzes with badges that you can earn and share on social networks.
• Preloaded content on the app gives users instant access to all information even without mobile connectivity.

The newest Flood App is just one in a series of emergency preparedness apps the American Red Cross is developing to put lifesaving information in the hands of people whenever and wherever they may need it. These apps can be in the Apple App Store and the Google Play store or by visiting the American Red Cross website.

It is always important to be prepared. If you would like to learn more about how you can help with American Red Cross and your community during a time of disaster please visit redcross.org/takeaclass.