Watch Duty: The Go-To App for Accurate Fire Information
A New Era of Fire Alert Systems
In the midst of the recent wind-fueled firestorms in Los Angeles, a free wildfire alert app called Watch Duty has become a lifeline for many. The app’s mission to provide "clear, concise, actionable information when seconds count" has been invaluable for individuals affected by the Palisades and Eaton fire, according to Nick Russell, Watch Duty’s vice president of operations.
How Watch Duty Works
Watch Duty’s automated system monitors 911 dispatch calls and sends a message to their team on Slack, a team communication platform. The team then monitors public sources, scanners, cameras, satellites, and more to provide updates to users. The team vets information and waits for updates from the scene. If Watch Duty perceives "a threat to life or property," affected users are notified. The team updates fires until they are extinguished or no longer pose a threat, allowing Watch Duty to "tell a storyline of reports from the start of ignition until the last engine passes."
Features and Benefits
On the app, users can set up notifications for fires in their county, see maps of fires and evacuation zones, view information about winds and air quality, view cameras showing fire activity, and see updates about fire perimeters, size, and progress – all in real-time. The app’s consistency and speed have led many users to call Watch Duty their primary source for fire information.
User Testimonials
Amy Diaz, a West Hills resident, has used the app since 2022 and trusts it because of its accuracy and data sourcing. "It’s one of my two go-to apps for information that I trust to be accurate," she said. Aaron Polsky, an entrepreneur, downloaded the app during the Sunset fire and found it to be a valuable resource for staying informed.
The Impact of Watch Duty
Watch Duty’s growth during recent wildfires speaks to its value. Two million users have downloaded the app in the past three days, bringing the total number of users to 4.8 million. About 98% of the new users are located in the Los Angeles County area.
The Future of Watch Duty
Watch Duty was founded in 2021 and is run by "real people" – active and retired firefighters, dispatchers, first responders, and reporters. The team is currently made up of 210 volunteers and 12 paid support staff. While the app is free, the nonprofit accepts donations and offers premium features to paid members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does Watch Duty work?
A: Watch Duty’s automated system monitors 911 dispatch calls and sends a message to their team on Slack, a team communication platform.
Q: What features does the app offer?
A: The app offers real-time updates on fires, evacuation zones, winds, air quality, and more.
Q: Is Watch Duty free?
A: Yes, the app is free, but the nonprofit accepts donations and offers premium features to paid members.
Q: How many users does Watch Duty have?
A: As of recent, the app has 4.8 million users, with 2 million being added in the past three days.
