Nonprofit fire-tracking app Watch Duty has received over 2 million downloads amidst the ongoing tragedy of the Los Angeles wildfires. The surge in downloads has helped the app claim the top spot on Apple's App Store charts.
Thanks to a network of volunteers, which includes active and retired firefighters, first responders, and regular users, the app is able to keep track of relevant and vital information regarding active fires, evacuation zones, wind direction, and more.
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On top of the aforementioned volunteers, 15 full-time employees listen to radio broadcasts from emergency responders and transmit that information through the app if a threat to property or life is perceived.
Watch Duty's service has proven more reliable than official government alerts, which tend to be spread across different systems and are prone to delays.
This reliability has helped the app garner over 2 million downloads in the past week.
In an interview with The New York Times, Watch Duty CEO John Mills explained that the app does not collect much personal information, choosing instead to prioritize the accuracy and speed of the information it provides.
"This is my life and my community. I owe it to my community to not be a disaster capitalist."
Watch Duty's Expansion
While 14 million unique users used the app last week alone, Watch Duty recorded steady growth throughout 2024.
According to an annual report, the service gained 512 million pageviews and raised $5.6 million last year.
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It is currently active in over 22 states, and most recently became available in Hawai'i last November.
One testimonial on the app's website describes it as a cure to the fear of being at risk.
As the wildfires continue to affect parts of Los Angeles, many brands have taken direct action to support relief efforts.
