Canadian Red Cross launches 'Be Ready' app for emergency preparedness week

The Canadian Red Cross is launching a new app for Emergency Preparedness Week to help people prepare for natural disasters.

Almost half of Canadians believe they are ready for a disaster like an earthquake or tsunami, according to the Canadian Red Cross. But many could do more to prepare — that's where the 'Be Ready' app can come in handy, said Debra Molesworth, BC's disaster management training coordinator.

"This is a huge insurance policy for you and your family. It is a terrifying thing for a child. You need to do some level of planning," she told The Early Edition host Rick Cluff Monday.

The app, which can be downloaded for free, also serves as an opportunity to start an important conversation on what to do in an emergency.

"Talk to the family, engage them in the whole process — not just what they need to do but what they need to put aside to build a kit."

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The 'Be Ready' app is available for both Apple and Android devices.

Here are a few things featured in the Be Ready app:

1. Information

The app provides tips on how to survive 11 different kinds of natural disasters, according to Molesworth. It features various checklists to help people put together a kit and create a plan on how to reconnect with lost family members. People can access this information at any time, even when there is no cell signal.

2. Locator

The app can also keep track of where family members are, which can prove essential during the aftermath of a disaster. This feature requires cell service to work.

3. Toolkit

The app comes with several handy features including a flashlight and alarm.

With files from The Early Edition

To listen to the full interview, click the link labelled: Canadian Red Cross launches new app for emergency preparedness week.