State Updates Ready Georgia App

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency has updated its “Ready Georgia” mobile app.

Available for both iOS and Android devices, the app has an entirely new user interface as well as features designed to help Georgia residents take steps to stay safe before, during and after emergencies.

GEMHSA said with the redesign, users will recognize core capabilities from the previous app are enhanced with new information and increased functionality such as the Ready Profile emergency planning tool, which now integrates with a user’s address book so they can quickly assign emergency contacts.

State officials added that users will also recognize enhancements to the live traffic map, a clearer map of hurricane evacuation routes and updated information on specific threat types.

Other additions to the app include the ability to receive active alert notifications for the Georgia county of their choice and monitor alerts for up to three counties; a feature to notify emergency contacts that you are safe following an emergency with a single tap on the screen, a visual or text checklist of what emergency supplies you have or need, and the ability to track progress on preparedness tasks and check the status of weather alerts and traffic incidents all from one screen.

GEMHSA Director Homer Bryson said the new features make it easier than ever for Georgia residents to be informed about potentially threatening weather, to make an emergency plan and to keep track of the emergency supplies they have on hand.

The “Ready Georgia” app was originally developed in 2011 in partnership with the Georgia Department of Public Health.

Upgrading the app was made possible through a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2014 and 2015, the CDC evaluated the previous version of the mobile app, identifying potential enhancements and improvements to increase its effectiveness. Following the completion of the evaluation, CDC provided funding to upgrade the app and implement many of the evaluation’s recommendations.

To download the Ready Georgia mobile app, visit www.ready.ga.gov/mobileapp. The app is also available for free from the App Store or Google Play.