ShakeWatch mobile app provides real-time earthquake early warnings, ensuring you can receive immediate warnings when seismic activity is detected. It also enables you to view past earthquakes. ShakeWatch is part of the SeismicAI application suite, which is based on a regional seismic network.
In this section, you’ll find answers to common questions to help you get started and make the most out of our app. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out through our Contact Us button.
1. Getting Started
1. How do I install and set up ShakeWatch on my device?
- Installation: Visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for "ShakeWatch." Download and install the app.
- Setup: Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to create your account. You'll be prompted to allow location access, notifications, and Do Not Disturb permissions, which are essential for real-time earthquake warnings and managing your favorite locations.
2. What permissions does ShakeWatch require, and why?
ShakeWatch requires the following permissions to function effectively:
- Enable Location Access: To provide real-time earthquake alerts and manage your favorite locations (Home and Work). Your location data is used solely for app functionality and is not shared with third parties.
- Enable Notifications: To send you immediate alerts about earthquakes and important updates.
- Enable ‘Bypass Do Not Disturb’, or Disable ‘Do Not Disturb’: To allow you to receive alerts even when your device is silenced.
3. How do I create and manage my favorite locations?
ShakeWatch monitors three locations: Two static locations which are selected by the user (‘Favorite Locations’), and the mobile phone’s location which is monitored by default.
- Creating Favorite Locations: Upon setting up ShakeWatch, you'll find two fields labeled Home and Work. Enter the addresses for these locations to set them as your favorites.
- Managing Favorites: You can update the addresses for Home and Work as needed. To change a location, navigate to the Favorites section and edit the respective field.
4. Can I use the app? What areas are included in its its coverage?
ShakeWatch is available only to organizations which are SeismicAI customers, and to their team members. Currently, it is available in 7 states in Mexico - Chiapas, Oaxaca, Guerrero, Michoacan, Jalisco, Colima, Puebla, Morelos, Estado de Mexico, Ciudad de Mexico. Coverage will soon expand to additional areas in Mexico, Italy and more.
2. Core Features
1. How does the real-time earthquake early warning system work?
ShakeWatch uses data from SeismicAI’s real-time regional seismic technology to accurately detect earthquakes as they occur. When earthquake is detected, the app sends you an immediate notification based on your favorite locations, providing timely alerts to help you take necessary precautions.
2. How can I review recent earthquakes in my region?
Access the "Recent Earthquakes" section in the app. Here, you'll find a list of recent seismic activities in your selected regions, including details like magnitude, location, and time.
3. What happens when I press the "Need Help" button?
This will activate "Need Help" mode, which uses your device's precise location to send accurate location data to your designated supervisor or emergency contacts. This can help accelerate rescue efforts during or after an earthquake.
3. Safety Features
1. How does the check-in feature work?
After receiving an earthquake alert, you'll see two dedicated buttons: Green - I'm Safe and Red - Need Help.
- I'm Safe: Clicking this button will notify your supervisor or emergency contacts that you are safe and return the app to standard mode.
- Need Help: Pressing this button will trigger an automated alert, sending your precise location to your designated contacts to help accelerate rescue efforts.
2. Can ShakeWatch notify me about multiple locations affected by the same earthquake?
Yes! ShakeWatch tracks your Home and Work locations and provides alerts and information about how each earthquake affects each site, ensuring you stay informed no matter where you are.
3. What should I do if I receive an earthquake warning from ShakeWatch?
When an earthquake alert is received, users should:
- Follow their organization's emergency response plan.
- Take personal safety precautions in line with local safety guidelines (e.g., taking cover under a sturdy object, moving away from windows).
ShakeWatch provides real-time alerts, but it is the responsibility of the organization and its personnel to take appropriate action based on internal emergency protocols.
4. Privacy and Security
1. How does ShakeWatch protect my personal information?
We prioritize your privacy and implement robust security measures to protect your data. Your personal information, including location data, is encrypted and stored securely. We do not share your data with third parties without your explicit consent.
2. Can I control how my location data is used?
Yes. You can manage your location settings within the app, allowing you to enable or disable location access at any time. Additionally, you can choose two favorite locations which will be monitored for earthquake alerts.
3. Does ShakeWatch store historical data?
No. ShakeWatch is not a tracking app and does not store historical earthquake data. Its purpose is not to analyze past events but to alert users when action is needed. Also, ShakeWatch only accesses precise location data when users check in to update their status as safe or unsafe, ensuring privacy while enabling timely response when necessary.
4. What measures are in place to ensure the security of my account?
ShakeWatch employs industry-standard security protocols, including encryption and secure authentication methods, to protect your account from unauthorized access.
5. Troubleshooting
1. I'm not receiving earthquake alerts. What should I do?
- Check Notifications: Ensure that notifications are enabled for ShakeWatch in your device settings.
- Location Services: Verify that location services are active and that ShakeWatch has permission to access your location.
- Internet Connection: Make sure your device is connected to the Internet, as real-time alerts require an active connection.
- App Updates: Ensure that you have the latest version of ShakeWatch installed. Visit the App Store or Google Play Store to check for updates.
2. The app is running slowly or crashing. How can I fix this?
- Restart the App: Close ShakeWatch completely and reopen it.
- Update the App: Check for any available updates and install them.
- Device Restart: Restart your device to clear any temporary issues.
- Reinstall: If problems persist, uninstall and reinstall ShakeWatch.
6. Feedback, support and more information
1. How can I provide feedback or suggest new features for ShakeWatch?
We value your feedback!
To Email us: Use the Contact Us button in the app to send us an email directly through your email app (e.g., Gmail or Apple Mail).
To improve the overall app experience and FAQ section, please share your feedback through the following channels:
- Feedback Form on the App: Provide detailed comments or suggestions by contacting us through the Contact Us button.
- Report an Issue: If you encounter any issues or have suggestions, use the Contact Us button to notify our support team directly.
- Periodic Surveys: Participate in occasional in-app surveys that help us understand your needs and improve our services.
- Thumbs Up/Down: At the end of each FAQ section, you can rate the answers with a thumbs up or down.
2. Where can I find additional support if I need help beyond the FAQ?
If you need further assistance, please reach out through the Contact Us button in the app. Our support team is ready to help you with any issues or questions you may have.
3. How can I stay updated with the latest ShakeWatch news and updates?
Stay connected by enabling notifications in the app, following us on our social media channels, and regularly checking the "News" section within ShakeWatch for the latest information and updates.
Feedback Mechanisms
To continuously improve our FAQ section and overall app experience, we encourage you to share your feedback:
- Feedback Form: Provide detailed comments or suggestions by contacting us through the Contact Us button.
- Report an Issue: If you encounter any issues or have suggestions, use the Contact Us button to notify our support team directly.
- Periodic Surveys: Participate in occasional in-app surveys that help us understand your needs and improve our services.
Thank you for choosing ShakeWatch! We’re committed to helping you stay safe and informed. If you have any other questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out through our Contact Us feature.
