GPS Tracking and Cell Phones Ensure Child Safety
Family and personal relationships Personal Safety Teens and parentsPublished June 4, 2009 at 4:34 pm No CommentsBy Greg Bartlett
Every parent knows the feeling of mixed emotions that ensues as he watches his kindergartner board the school bus for the first time. There’s a feeling of pride in knowing that your child is ready to gain some independence, yet there’s also some trepidation about what might happen to him when he’s away from home. Many parents have turned to cell phones to stay connected with their children periodically throughout the day, but did you know that your child’s cell phone can also be used to track his location remotely? GPS tracking technology can provide you with peace of mind regarding your child’s whereabouts and safety as he takes those first steps toward independence.
All cell phones are required by law to have GPS tracking capability for the purpose of aiding police investigations if necessary. The technology works by sending a signal from the cell phone to a receiving device, usually a computer, which records the location of the transmitter at the particular point in time. Results can be viewed in real time or as reports. Most cell phone companies offer GPS tracking plans to you as the consumer for a reasonable charge, which enables you to take advantage of the technology that is already part of the phone.
As you watch the bus door close behind your child on his first day of school, some of your anxiety might be due to concerns about him being lost or even kidnapped. Over 750,000 children are reported missing each year, and statistics show that most kidnappings are perpetrated by someone the child knows and is likely to trust, such as an estranged parent or other relative. With GPS tracking, you can check at any time to see whether your child has gone straight home, has stopped off at the local park, or is at the home of someone you don’t know or don’t trust. If the child has been instructed to keep his phone on silent and concealed at all times, the perpetrator probably won’t even be aware that you have the ability to track him.
Children grow up quickly and they need to feel the freedom to assert their independence. As a parent, you can support your child’s independent spirit and still give yourself peace of mind by equipping his cell phone with GPS tracking technology. It’ll save you many anxious moments, and it may even save your child’s life.
