Google announced today (Monday, November 11, 2013) it has launched crisis tools to help gather and relay information in connection with the incredible devastation that’s occurred in the Philippines.
The tools include Google Person Finder, a Web app for individuals to either search for someone else or leave details about yourself and others.
“If you’re worried about someone, then click on “I’m Looking for Someone” and type in their name. If you want to let people know you’re safe or have heard from someone in the area, then click on “I have information about someone” and put in their names and details. As the number of names and records build, the tool will hopefully make it easier for those who are safe to pass on their news to anyone worried about them”,said Google.
You can request status via SMS by sending an SMS to the following numbers.
2662999 -Globe subscribers
4664999 -SMART subscribers
22020999 -Sun subscribers or +16508003977
For example, if you are searching for Joshua Reyes, send the message “Search Joshua Reyes”.
Google has also come up with a Typhoon Yolanda Relief Map, which provides updates on shelters and other information from the disaster zone.
These tools are open to anyone to embed on their Web sites.Here you can find the instructions for embedding person finder.For embedding the map click the “Share” button at the top of the crisis map.
