The American Red Cross has a new Tornado App that puts help into the hands of people who live in or visit tornado-prone area. The app is free and available for iPhone, iPad and Android smart phone and tablet users.

The Red Cross app gives people instant access to local and real time information on what to do before, during and after tornados whether it’s in the community where they live or where they love to vacation.

The app, available in English and Spanish, has a number of features including a high-pitched siren and “tornado warning!” alert that signals when a NOAA tornado warning is in effect. An “all clear!” alert lets users know when a tornado warning has expired or has been cancelled. People who are out of harm’s way can quickly tap the “I’m safe” button to send a message letting loved ones and friends know they are OK.

People across the country can now receive location-based NOAA tornado, severe thunderstorm and flood alerts on their mobile devices and share them on their social networks. Users can share vital information via Facebook, Twitter, text and email. Even if someone doesn’t live in a tornado-prone area, users can have peace of mind knowing they’ll have instant information about loved ones who live in other parts of the country.

Other features of the app include:

• Simple steps and checklists people can use to create an emergency plan and share it with household members;

• Preloaded preparedness content that gives instant access to critical action steps even without mobile connectivity;

• Toolkit with a flashlight, a strobe light and an audible alarm;

• Locations of open Red Cross shelters; and

• Badges users can earn through interactive quizzes and share on social networks.

The Tornado App, along with the others, can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/mobileapps.