Infrastructureless messaging application in case of a natural disaster

During a natural disaster, the communication infrastructures are damaged, jeopardizing the efficiency of rescuing operations. Thanks to technology advancement, it is now possible to use our mobile devices capabilities to create an operational network where information can be disseminated. The FIND Service app does exactly that.

By taking advantage of our devices resources and the FIND Service app, FIND Message is able to overcome communication failures in the midst of a catastrophe, thus maximizing rescuing efforts.

FIND Message acts as a communication channel allowing you to post and view messages as in a message board. These messages are propagated to everyone on the field even when internet connection is not available.

If internet connection is available, all obtained messages are also sent to the Control Centre Command where that info is then used to better manage and coordinate rescuing teams.

You can always check the messages' status, i.e., check if a message has already been sent or received by another person on the field or by the Control Centre.

Another feature of FIND Message is that it allows you to view de distance between you and the users of FIND Service that have connected to you at least once.

Here are some examples of how FIND Message can be used during a disaster:

Warning:

"This building is collapsing! Everyone get out of it ASAP".

Informing:

"This bridge has fallen, no vehicles can get through".

Receiving rescuers' intructions:

"Please take the escape route to the left of the museum".

Asking for help:

"Me and 100 other students are trapped on the roof of a school, please help us".

FIND Message has the potential to transmit crucial information that can save lives. The content of those messages and its impact on the outcome of a disaster depends on you.

The FIND platform was developed within the Assessment, STrategy And Risk Reduction for Tsunamis in Europe (ASTARTE) European project. To find out more about the project head over to http://www.astarte-project.eu/.

**Requirements**

FIND Service - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=find.service