MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) The Christmas Day tornadoes wreaked havoc on parts of the Port City. Murphy High School was also damaged so bad students were shifted to other schools.
The American Red Cross, which had one of its buildings destroyed and trailers flipped in a storm a few days earlier, is getting ahead of the game with a new Tornado App.
"During that time we could have alerted more people that there was a tornado in the area and that they needed to take cover," said Elizabeth Saunders, Communications Specialist with the Alabama Red Cross.
The new app is designed to help in severe weather situations, similar to the organization's Hurricane App.
"Social media has been such a game changer when it comes to disaster response and disaster preparedness," said Laure Howe, Red Cross spokesperson.
One of the biggest features of the new app is that is has audible alerts. Those alerts can go off even when you're not monitoring the weather. It also allows you to call for help if you're injured after a storm.
"If you are unable to speak or let people know that you're hurt, then you can turn on that alarm and it will go out to people and they'll be able to see it," Saunders said.
The app also features a "I Am Safe" button that sends text messages or posts to social media sites saying you are safe. There's even a tool kit with a strobe light to make it easier for crews to find you.
The app is free for iPhone and Android users.
CLICK HERE to learn more.
