Watch Duty App: Volunteer-Based Tool Protecting And Saving Lives Amid Southern California Wildfires

The Watch Duty app, a wildfire monitoring tool, is playing a critical role in saving lives across the United States, particularly during the current Southern California wildfires.

With 7.2 million users just three years after its launch, the app alerts people to wildfire risks and provides real-time incident updates, The Guardian reported. According to Tech Crunch, it has passed ChatGPT as the top downloaded free app in Apple’s Apple Store amid the fires.

How the Watch Duty App Works

The Watch Duty app simplifies finding critical information about wildfire incidents. Its features include detailed maps of fire-affected areas, evacuation sites, and directions to nearby shelters. Users can access live camera feeds, wind data, and the latest aircraft positions. Additionally, the app provides a risk level assessment to keep users informed.

“The app is not just about alerts; it is about a state of mind,” said John Mills, CEO of Watch Duty, in an interview with The Guardian.

The Origins of the Watch Duty App

Mills founded the app after moving from San Francisco to Sonoma County, a region frequently affected by wildfires. Initially focused on four California counties, Watch Duty has since expanded to cover the entire state, all Western states, and Hawaii.

Remarkably, Mills and his team have spent little on marketing. “We just let the genie out of the bottle so the world would know things could never go back to the way things were,” Mills said.

Who Powers the Watch Duty App?

The app relies on volunteers, designated as “reporters,” including former firefighters and community members. They gather emergency updates from multiple sources, collaborate to verify the information, and share updates with users.

Cristy Thomas, a central California resident, said the app provides her with a sense of safety. After a fire broke out near her home, she couldn’t reach 911 but received immediate notifications from Watch Duty that first responders were on the way.

“We were seeing it happen and had questions — but Watch Duty answered all of them,” Thomas said.

Expanding the Reach of the Watch Duty App

In 2024, Watch Duty reached users across 14 states and secured over $5 million in grants. The app also offers a subscription option, providing advanced insights such as fire footprint overlays, utility management zones, and historical fire data.

“People always thank me for Watch Duty,” Mills said. “I’m like, ‘You’re welcome — and I’m sorry that you need it.’”