Mobile applications for emergency preparedness and communication

During crises such as natural disasters, power outages, or loss of connectivity, mobile applications can serve as vital tools for emergency response and communication.

To maintain contact without traditional cellular coverage, mesh networking apps like Bridgefy and Briar allow devices to communicate via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. These tools turn phones into repeaters, passing encrypted messages and locations between nearby devices.

For direct assistance, applications such as My112 enable users to call emergency services while automatically transmitting GPS coordinates. In rural areas, what3words provides precise location data by dividing the world into three-meter grids identified by unique three-word combinations. Additionally, configuring a phone’s Medical ID and SOS button is recommended to allow first responders to access critical health information, such as blood type and allergies, from a locked screen.