‘It’s not just alerts, it’s a state of mind’: How a wildfire monitoring app became essential in the US west

Central California: Cristy Thomas was in a panic, calling 911 as smoke filled the sky. She felt helpless until she heard the familiar ping of the Watch Duty app. It had already registered the fire, and suddenly, she felt a wave of relief wash over her. Help was on the way.

Watch Duty is more than just an app; it’s a lifeline for people living in fire-prone areas. In just three years, it has gained around 7.2 million active users. That’s pretty impressive for a non-profit that started small. The app gives users quick access to crucial information about wildfires, like where they are, evacuation routes, and even where to find shelter.

John Mills, the CEO, emphasizes that the app is about more than just alerts; it’s about peace of mind. He created it after moving to a fire-prone area in Sonoma County. What started in a few California counties quickly expanded to cover the entire state and beyond. Now, it reaches people in 14 states.

The app has become a go-to resource not just for residents but also for firefighters, city officials, and journalists. It’s all about keeping everyone informed and on the same page. Mills often hears gratitude from users, but he wishes they didn’t need it in the first place.

Interestingly, they haven’t spent a dime on marketing. The app’s popularity has grown through word of mouth. It emerged from a need for reliable information during emergencies, unlike other platforms that can muddy the waters with algorithms.

Watch Duty relies on a team of volunteers who gather and verify information from various sources. They listen to emergency updates, analyze data, and send out notifications to users. This network of dedicated individuals has alerted the public to over 9,000 wildfires this year alone.

Support for Watch Duty has been strong, with $5.6 million in funding this year. They’re also planning to expand their services to cover other risks like flooding and extreme weather. As climate change intensifies these threats, the app is proving to be a vital tool for communities.

Mills has even been invited to share insights at a White House roundtable on fire safety. It’s a far cry from the initial skepticism they faced from local officials worried about misinformation. Now, agencies are using their services, recognizing the value of reliable information.

For people like Cristy Thomas, the app is a game-changer. She’s been through the chaos of wildfires before, and having Watch Duty by her side makes a world of difference. It’s not just about staying informed; it’s about knowing that help is out there.

She recalls the CZU Lightning Complex fire, which devastated her community. While her home was spared, she’s been involved in evacuating animals during disasters. Before Watch Duty, it was a lot more chaotic. Now, she feels reassured knowing that others are also aware of the situation.

The app has been a “heart-savingly useful” tool for her, and she hopes even more people will start using it. The trust it provides is invaluable, and that’s what makes it so important in times of crisis.