The Federal Emergency Management Agency just launched a disaster management app aptly titled FEMA to assist people affected by natural disasters. The release came just days before hurricane Irene was predicted to make landfall in the USA.
If you’re ready to get prepared or are trying to decide what to do now that disaster has struck, pay careful attention to my Android app review of FEMA.
Features
FEMA
The FEMA Android app contains helpful information about emergency preparedness, what to do during a disaster and even helpful lists of next steps for survivors.
I really like the three-prong approach. It gives FEMA a wide range of appeal and practicality. The message is loud and clear. If there is any possibility that you will be affected by a natural disaster, you want to have this app.
In addition to thoughtful prep lists, tips for handling 11 different disasters situations and spots to enter organizational data to help keep your family together, the FEMA app has an interactive map to help you find active disaster recovery centers. There are even links to FEMA’s blog, pages for relief volunteers, and tips about staying connected.
That’s a lot of information. Even if your family was tucked safely out of Irene’s way, the app has details for signing up for FEMA monthly safety text alerts. To opt in text PREPARE to 43362. Standard rates apply.
The only feature I wish this app included is an export option. It’s great that you can make lists and collect data. What good is it that if you need to share it? What if something happens to one of your phones? Just an idea, FEMA. Otherwise I’m extremely impressed with this app’s suite of features.
User Interface
FEMA
FEMA organizes data in user friendly subheadings to keep access easy. The main page is broken into seven different sections, and a similar file-style organizational model is followed throughout the app.
I particularly like the editing options in the FEMA Android app. You can add items to the app’s pre-built emergency preparedness lists to tailor them to your family. It’s a great way to get organized. The last thing you need in an emergency situation are difficult apps. It’s nice to know you won’t have any trouble finding the information you need with the FEMA Android app.
Functionality
Most of the FEMA Android app works like a charm, which is comfortingly. It even works without a network connection. I do have a few complaints. The map functionality is extremely slow, and could use additional data like area shelters for each state instead of just some of them.
Trying to access the blog section of the FEMA app actually crashed the entire app for me several times. This might be due to Irene, or it may just need some work.
Value
FEMA’s Android app is available free of charge. I think this app could help if it is utilized in preparation. My suggestion: do not wait until the last second to prepare. Your life and the lives of your family could depend on it.
FEMA
Android Apps Review Details: FEMA Android app is free. This app requires Android 2.0 and up. You may download FEMA from the Android Market.
