The best apps to ride out the second round of the polar vortex

If you’re going to be riding out this winter wonderland with your smartphone, tablet or other device, make sure you have the best apps. Temperatures are expected to stay below freezing until Saturday, with wind chills dipping below zero, according to the National Weather Service. Here are our suggestions:

Survival Guide: Includes several chapters on how to handle natural disasters. Although this week's cold snap probably won't plunge us into another ice age, it's good to know how to retain your body heat or create makeshift fires, just in case. (iOS, free)

Weather Bug: If you want a precise temperature forecast, this is your app. (iOS, Android, free)

Winter Survival Kit: Allows users to store emergency contact numbers, including insurance providers. It also helps determine your location just in case you need to call emergency services. (iOS, Android, free)

Fireplace: If your home's heating doesn't give you that ski lodge-feel, this offers the next best thing: video of a fireplace. (iOS, free)

NYC 311: The city urges anyone with heat problems to contact 311. Smartphone users can file certain complaints and check the status of previous calls with this app. (iOS, Android free)

Storm Shield Weather Radio: Users receive push alerts about extreme weather and have access to real time radar maps. (iOS, Android $4.99)

American Red Cross Shelter Finder: If you need a warm place to stay, this will point you in the direction of nonprofit shelters. (iOS, free)

Pet First Aid: Offers pet owners tips on how to care for their dogs and cats in extreme weather. (iOS $3.99, Android $2.99)

BarBack Hot Drinks: To take the edge off that winter chill, curl up with a steaming mug of tea, hot toddies, or more, as this app offers 350+ recipes. (iOS $1.99, Android $3.99)

Weathermob: If you ever wanted to try your hand at meteorology, this one is for you. Users can post their cold related photos and updates to share with others. (iOS, free)

Effing Weather: If you're going to freeze, might as well get a laugh out of it right? Download this app for a sassy spin on the day's forecast. (For Example: Stay in Bed because it's effing cold outside). (iOS, free)

(with Cari Romm)