University of Michigan researchers have developed a new app aimed at helping Flint residents during the ongoing water crisis in the city.
The tool is called MyWater-Flint and it was created by a U of M team compiled from researchers on the Ann Arbor and Flint campuses. The university announced its availability in a news release on Thursday.
MyWater-Flint is available as an Android app and on the internet at Mywater-flint.com.
The interactive guide has a number of different features.
First, it can help people pinpoint homes with a greater risk for lead - and also show where lead has been found in city water.
In terms of infrastructure, there's also a way to see where pipes have been replaced and where service lines are currently getting worked on.
Researchers say the app is full of helpful information. There's a map of water distribution centers and there's even a section explaining how to go about testing your water.
"We've developed an essential resource," said Jake Abernethy, assistant professor of computer science and engineering at UM-Ann Arbor, in a statement. "It's an independent platform that gives people information they need and want to know as they navigate this complex situation. There's no playbook for it."
