Why should I use a multi-hazard app? Assessing the public's information needs and app feature preferences in a participatory process

In this paper, the authors focused their analysis on multi-hazard apps. With seven virtual interactive workshops, they assessed the public's information needs and app feature preferences. With respect to the content of multi-hazard apps, their results show that participants would mainly combine natural hazards but also have an interest in integrating anthropogenic and socio-natural hazards. To this end, participants advocate sending push notifications for low-probability hazards via general-purpose apps (e.g., weather apps) to reach a larger audience.

Despite the desired diversity of hazard information, participants wish for an app focusing on relevant information only and redirecting users to other authorized sources for further information. Participants define the following as relevant information: location, time, hazard severity, behavioral recommendations and the contact details of emergency services. In addition, they wish for the following features: push notifications, a help button, a sharing function, a chat forum, an “I am safe” button, and a “Report an event” button.