The updated Alert SA app - previously dedicated to bushfires - now includes warnings for severe weather, heatwaves, urban fires, floods and hazardous materials
The improved app brings together the state's emergency services agencies on a dedicated multi-hazard platform, giving users access to timely information about fire danger ratings, total fire bans and emergency services websites.
Up to 10 areas of interest - known as Watch Zones - can be created on the app where notifications are received on incidents and warnings specific to that location.
For the first time, the app - an initiative of the State Government - includes cross-border fire warnings, with alerts issued for fires within 100km of neighbouring state and territory borders.
The app's new modern design, onboarding screen and large text and voiceover options makes it accessible and easy to use.
SES Chief Officer Chris Beattie said this was the first time SES warnings and incidents would be included on the app, providing another way to distribute critical information to the public.
"While this app will provide a single source of information, the SES reminds the community not to rely on any one source of information during an emergency," Mr Beattie said.
"Continue to monitor other channels, including the SES social media and website, news broadcasts on TV and radio, and more."
CFS Deputy Chief Officer Georgie Cornish agreed saying while it was essential for people to not rely on just one source of information during an emergency, the Alert SA app offered an additional way to receive updates about bushfires and other hazards.
"I encourage all South Australians to download the Alert SA app now and set up Watch Zones to receive push notifications about incidents that occur in specific areas of concern," she said.
SAFECOM Chief Executive Julia Waddington-Powell said the enhanced app would provide South Australians with timely information during emergencies, helping them to make informed decisions to stay safe.
Since it was launched in December 2019, Alert SA has been downloaded more than 380,000 times and sent more than140 million notifications for more than 17,000 bushfire incidents.
The latest version of the app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play.
