Poloncarz, officials unveil 'Ready Erie' app

Free emergency information in the palm of your hand to prepare for, plan response to disaster

Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined Thursday by Commissioner of Emergency Services Daniel Neaverth Jr. and emergency services personnel at the Public Safety Campus in Buffalo to unveil the new "Ready Erie" app. The app is available for free and is designed for the iPhone, iPad, android and iOS systems. Among other uses, the multipurpose app will allow users to receive critical information and emergency alerts through push notifications, locate Erie County's emergency shelters, view up-to-date evacuation route maps, and create a personalized emergency preparedness plan by answering five basic questions.

"The 'Ready Erie' app takes emergency planning and preparedness to the next level and will give users the information they need at the time they need it, helping them and their loved ones to respond to emergencies in a safe and organized manner," Poloncarz said. "With this app we can communicate directly with our constituents. Individuals can have access to critical alerts and updates to coordinate planning with family or co-workers, and stay on top of changing conditions. The app also has useful information on ways to prepare before disaster strikes, helping to mitigate damage and protect lives. I urge all residents to get the app and begin creating their own emergency plan."

Neaverth added, "I'm repeatedly asked if there's a single thing citizens can do to prepare and I always respond, 'Have a plan.' The ability to develop a step-by-step emergency plan customized specifically for your family is now just a free download away."

The app can be downloaded from the Erie County website at http://www2.erie.gov/ under the "Online Services" tab. The app is available on all major platforms.

Among the app's other features are the ability to share your status with selected contacts on your device and get the latest news and weather for Erie County. Users who create a personalized emergency management plan will be able to store the plan on their device to share with family and friends.

Every individual's plan will include an emergency supply kit checklist tailored to their needs; a customized emergency food supply shopping list; an emergency communications plan to notify loved ones of the individual's status; and information to prepare your home for impending disaster. the app also provides an opportunity to learn about the various emergency situations that Erie County residents are most likely to face in five integrated eGuides.

Poloncarz added, "Planning and preparation can make all the difference when disaster strikes, and the Ready Erie app makes it easier than ever to develop a plan and be prepared for an emergency. As we've seen, disasters can happen at any time. Get the app, make a plan, and be prepared."

For more information on the Erie County Department of Emergency Services, visit http://www2.erie.gov/emergencyservices/.