GPS Fails then Saves Couple

by James Neely, freelance writer: click | HERE | to check out GPS products from Rocky Mountain Tracking

On Christmas Day, 2009, a couple almost lost their lives because of their dependence on a GPS-enabled cell phone.  This Nevada couple allowed their GPS-enabled cell phone to direct them into a remote area of east Oregon and they encountered deep snow on a back road in a forest in which their SUV got stuck.  Fortunately, after a few days, atmospheric conditions improved so that their cell phone could get a better signal which allowed authorities to pin-point their location, pull their vehicle out and lead them to safety.

Stuck with GPS Tracking?

Now, while these GPS-enabled cell phones are easy targets in pointing out their flaws, there is another underlying issue which we will address later.  But, first it is important that we note the differences between GPS Navigation, GPS-enabled cell phones and GPS Tracking devices.

GPS Navigation

Some auto manufacturers include this option on their vehicles which is not dependent on cell phone towers and signals.  This is a good thing.  Not only do they provide turn-by-turn directions, but also a smorgasbord of features that are helpful and do enhance the ownership experience.  The problem is that you cannot purchase this OEM product on any vehicle – just the ones that are manufactured by the name-sake company.  Maybe that will change in the future.  The second pitfall with these systems is that the end user is not able to take control of the tracking and use it for their own purposes.  It is solely reliant upon the provider.  And, in addition to this, it takes extra time to engage those who monitor the system to provide services that are needed instantly, for example, theft recovery.

There is another after-market company that makes a device that helps locate a stolen vehicle but again, it is not owner-enabled.  Only police can ‘find’ these vehicles with these devices and currently only 5% of police vehicles have the ability and equipment to allow them to find these stolen vehicles.

Navigation units are also available as an after-market addition to your vehicle.  These provide turn-by-turn directions and a few other features, but no return information to a service provider about location information, etc.  They are limited and therefore are not effective from a safety and security standpoint.

GPS-enabled Cell Phones

These devices use cell phone signals and towers to send coordinates to authorities should you need assistance.  The problem with these devices is that as is pointed out in the above story, cell phone signals are subject to spotty coverage for a variety of reasons.  Added to this is the fact that battery life on cell phones is not that great compared to other dedicated GPS Tracking devices.  It just happens that this is what ultimately saved this couple.  But, the results could have been far more disastrous if they had not gotten that little bit of cell signal after three days.  GPS-enabled cell phones are not your best choice for devices of this type and purpose.

GPS Tracking Devices

We’ve been championing the use of GPS Tracking systems for months on this blog site and for good reason.  These units are the best choice from a safety standpoint for these reasons:

Any Vehicle Any Time – You can outfit any vehicle with a GPS Tracking device for tracking purposes.  And, you can also use these devices on other pieces of equipment that are used for other purposes.  Imagine any type of outdoor equipment that would benefit from this technology and there is a device available for it.

Always on Always Available – GPS Tracking devices, when properly installed, are direct connected to the vehicle’s battery and they have their OWN internal battery which means that if this couple above had lost battery power on their vehicle, the GPS Tracking device would still have been emitting a signal for DAYS after the primary power had gone away.  Try that with a GPS-enabled cell phone, or even an on-board Navigation system.

The bottom line and underlying message in this story is that common sense has to trump dependence on technology.  Face it, when your life is on the line, you need more to depend upon besides a voice emanating from cell phone telling you where to turn.  You need to prepare in advance for your trip and map out your route just to make sure that you do not take any out-of-the-way routes which are less travelled and can pose hazards because of your unfamiliarity and the weather conditions at the time of your trip.  This couple was lucky.  Maybe next time the outcome will not be so good.

Also, choose GPS Tracking devices that do not depend on cell signals.  The best GPS devices are either completely independent of your vehicle, or are integrated within it which provides always on and always available capabilities.  And, independent battery power helps insure that your device is sending out signals with the maximum amount of time possible.

In our humble opinion, GPS Tracking devices remain the best option for safety and security.  Rocking Mountain Tracking has the best line-up of GPS Tracking devices to meet any need.  Take a look at their products and options for the best fit for your business.  You will find knowledgeable sales persons in helping you get the best unit to meet your requirements.

Tags: family, GPS Tracking Devices, safety, security, technology