Red Cross apps have hurricane info

Exactly one year ago, Long Island was bracing for Hurricane Irene. When hurricanes bear down this year, the Red Cross is there -- with an app.

You may not associate the 131-year-old American Red Cross with cutting-edge technology, but the humanitarian organization is producing some highly rated apps for smartphones and tablets.

The organization's Hurricane app helps you monitor oncoming storms and generates a constantly updated list of shelters near you. The app's "I'm Safe" feature allows you to send messages to friends and family via social networks.

The Red Cross also offers "First Aid," an app loaded with crucial, comprehensive and potentially lifesaving information.

Both apps are free and available for iPhone, iPad, iTouch and Android devices.