Keeping track of your children, handicapped or elderly members of your family can be a challenge. The media is full of stories of missing people especially children that are found dead or never found. Many people spend their entire waking day just worrying about a child or family member.
Recently a man with severe dementia wandered away from his extended care facility in Florida. Luckily for his family he had a GPS personal tracking device attached to his arm. When left the care facility grounds the geo-fencing alarm was given off by the device notifying the staff that he was out of bounds. With the assistance of the tracking service company they were able to track his exact location. Even though he had caught a ride at the nearby gas station the staff was able to track him to the point he was dropped off. Sheriff’s deputies were able to safely pick him up and return him to the care facility unharmed. A happy ending to what could have become a tragedy.
The new GPS personal tracking devices are small and fairly reliable. The can be worn like a watch or even attached with a locking device to prevent removal. A typical small real time tracking device will be 2”X2”X1” in size. The smaller sizes are ideal for children. Most personal tracking systems use a combination of GPS, cell phone or satellite phone technology to provide real time tracking information. The tracking information is sent to a GPS tracking system provider who in turns make notification to via cell phone, computer, email or land line phone. The real time tracking information is updated according to the specifications of the tracking company agreement and can be as often as every 30 seconds. The use of cell phone technology means that your loved one can be tracked inside buildings and even God forbid the trunk of a car.
Just like GPS auto tracking, GPS personal tracking data shows the location, direction and speed of the tracking device. The geo-fencing feature will alert when the tracking device leaves a predetermined area. A child leaving school early, not going directly home after school or leaving the neighborhood will generate a notification to the parent or guardian. Arrangement can be made with the tracking service company to contact you automatically as soon as an event occurs and if you are unable to respond then local law enforcement authorities will be notified. You may check on your loved one at any time that they are wearing or carrying the tracking device 24/7.
Granted GPS personal tracking services and devices may be expensive initially. Once the device or devices are purchased then the only cost is for the tracking service subscription. Prices have fallen as more tracking companies and improved technology have appeared in the market place. However it is hard to put a price on the peace of mind knowing that your child or loved one is safe.