Cardiff launches new app to keep people safe during major incidents
A new app, designed to keep residents and visitors to Cardiff safe in the event of a major incident such as a significant fire, flooding or an act of terrorism, has been launched.
Once downloaded, the app will send push notifications directly to users' smartphones to alert them to any major incidents taking place in the city. It will also provide up-to-the-minute information so that people can avoid the sector of the city where the incident is taking place and if necessary, direct people to their nearest evacuation point.
The app, which can be downloaded by typing ‘EVAC Cardiff' into the Google Play Store for Android phones and the Apple App Store for iPhones, has been launched to coincide with the UEFA Champions League Finals which will see high numbers of visitors arriving in the city.
Emergency Management Officer, Gwilym Owen, said: "We do a lot of work behind the scenes to ensure that Cardiff is fully prepared for any emergency situation and potentially this app is a life-saver. It's highly unlikely that any of us will ever be caught up in a major incident, but if the worst happens, being informed and prepared can significantly reduce the risk of harm to people and property."
In addition to receiving alerts about incidents the app also provides links to maps, guidance and videos that will help you prepare for potential emergencies as well as information about useful locations in the city, the latest news from major local organisations and a location finder.
The app has been created and developed over the last 6 months by Cardiff Council in partnership with South Wales Police, Wales Extremism & Counter Terrorism Unit, South Wales Fire & Rescue Service, Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, British Transport Police, Cardiff Bus, Arriva trains Wales, Network Rail, Maritime & Coastguard Agency and Cardiff Business Safe.
Follow EVAC Cardiff on Twitter @evaccardiff or visit the ‘EVACCardiff' You Tube channel.