Disaster City Guide app for iPhone launched

TEEX’s Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) division has launched the first iPhone? application designed, tested and fielded by the agency. This Apple application is available at no cost on iTunes, and has already been downloaded nearly 1,300 times by people in 36 countries since it was launched in December.

The Disaster City? Guide iPhone? Application provides users with basic information about what to do to prepare for and survive various disasters, including a flood, thunderstorm, hurricane, tornado and earthquake. The goal is to put valuable information into the hands of citizens so they can access it easily. Additional information is included about the critical training US&R provides at Disaster City?. One reviewer on iTunes? calls the application: “A great quick reference. Lots of useful information in one place.”

“What is really exciting to me is how we are beginning to leverage emerging technology to enhance the teaching and learning process,” said Tom Sturtevant, US&R Associate Division Director. “We are moving past just moving the classroom to online; we are beginning to make significant changes to the delivery of training and education.” US&R continues to leverage emerging technology and several projects are underway to enhance response capabilities, he added.