By: Emergent Team
Smartphones are now as common in a turnout pocket as a Halligan tool on the rig, and for good reason. The right apps can improve safety, coordination, navigation, and documentation. Whether you’re on scene, in the station, or prepping for the next shift, mobile tools have become mission-critical in today’s fire service.
Here’s a list of the best apps for firefighters and first responders, spanning everything from navigation to reference guides to fitness tracking. All are available for iOS and Android unless otherwise noted.
1. PulsePoint Respond
Platform: iOS | Android
Use: Community alerts, CPR response, AED locations
Why it’s useful: PulsePoint connects trained bystanders with cardiac arrest victims in public places. Many departments also use it for citizen engagement and real-time alerts. It can also display nearby AEDs and integrate with dispatch.
2. Firefighter Pocketbook
Platform: iOS | Android (not available)
Use: Reference guide, study materials
Why it’s useful: Designed for new and veteran firefighters alike, this app offers flashcards, protocol checklists, SOPs, and other quick-reference materials in your pocket. Ideal for downtime at the station or pre-testing refreshers.
3. ActiveAlert
Platform: iOS | Android
Use: Incident alerts, maps, response coordination
Why it’s useful: Active911 pushes alerts from CAD directly to your phone, showing who’s responding, what apparatus is en route, and where it’s happening. GPS mapping and real-time ETA tracking make it great for rural or volunteer departments.
4. FEMA App
Platform: iOS | Android
Use: Disaster planning, alerts, resource lookup
Why it’s useful: This is more than a citizen-facing tool. It offers up-to-date information on national disasters, shelter locations, recovery assistance, and weather alerts—relevant to both preparedness officers and incident command.
5. MyFitnessPal
Platform: iOS | Android
Use: Nutrition, tracking, firefighter fitness
Why it’s useful: Staying fit for duty starts with what you put in your body. MyFitnessPal helps firefighters track calories, macronutrients, hydration, and progress—ideal for those working odd hours or trying to maintain fitness through shift work.
Looking for more ways technology is transforming fire service work? Check out our related posts on Technology in the Fire Service, AI in Firefighting, or Trends in the Fire Service.
Want to suggest an app you use in the field? Drop us a note, we’re always updating our list of the best apps for firefighters and first responders.
Looking for more ways to optimize your department’s tech? Emergent’s digital tools streamline incident management, fleet checks, and firefighter accountability, just like these apps simplify daily operations. Contact us to learn more.
