AUBURN — The Police Department has launched an app for Android and iPhone devices to allow users to report tips, search for department contacts, receive notifications, and have access to information from FEMA, the National Weather Service and the National Terror Advisory System.

Other uses include links for wanted persons, videos, notices about sex offenders and blog posts.

The phone application or “app” can be downloaded free by searching for My Police Department or MyPD in the iPhone or Android marketplace. The police app is available to the public free of charge and is also free of any advertisements. Once downloaded, users simply navigate to the Auburn Police Department.

“Our app’s crime tips or questions and feedback features allows a user to choose a topic from the forms dropdown menu that best suits them. Their message will then be routed to the correct officer,” according to a news release issued by Deputy Chief Jason Moen. “Forms can be sent anonymously to the department, but we encourage an email address or phone number if you would like a response. Users will also have the opportunity to upload photos when submitting tip and feedback forms.”

In addition, new forms have been created to facilitate sending in tips or concerns. The Auburn Police Department’s Tip, Commendation, and Feedback forms are available online from the department’s Facebook page — www.facebook.com/auburnpd.

As is the case with email, tip sites, and social media, the app is not for any type of emergency situation. The app is designed for routine questions and information sharing. The Police Department attempts to review all messages in a timely fashion but does not always monitor messages and activity at all times. 9-1-1 is always the preferred method for emergency situations or response.

For more information, go to the Auburn Police Department’s Facebook page or the MyPD app website http://MyPDapp.com