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Article Written By Greg Bartlett

Parents sending their kids off to college for the first time, or even for a second or third year may be a little nervous about their child’s safety.  Whether a college student is living in the dorms or off campus, staying safe is important. There are many ways to protect valuables from being lost and stolen, but one fairly recent technology many people use is GPS theft prevention devices or alarm systems.  GPS tracking devices can be attached to items of value like computers and vehicles.

These tracking devices allow the owner to monitor the location of their valuable possessions at all times.  If a student is worried about his laptop computer or cell phone being lost or stolen, a GPS tracking device may be an option to consider.  Many students simply use locks for their laptops, which is a cheaper option, but GPS theft prevention devices have proven to be quite effective.  GPS can also be used to track vehicles. Usually a small tracking device is placed in or on the car in an inconspicuous place (so that a car thief will not see the device and remove it).  This amazing technology allows the owner (or police) to track the vehicle’s exact location and speed.

Some devices send signals that can be tracked online, while others send signals directly to a cellphone.  GPS tracking devices can also be used for bicycles, sine hundreds of bicycles are stolen from college campuses every year.  In a dorm room or apartment, students can install a GPS security system.  Although many security options are available, these security systems  are becoming more and more popular.  These systems can include cameras as well as GPS devices, and they have proven to be very effective.

Unfortunately, personal safety for college students is a big issue as well.  In the last several years, there have been several cases of murdered students that have made the national news.  Most of these students were killed by acquaintances, usually fellow students.   GPS devices can also be sewn into clothing, and various devices can be slipped inside a backpack or folder. On a less serious level, GPS technology can also be used during extracurricular activities like shopping or trying out new restaurants around town.  Navigational devices are also very helpful in reaching an unfamiliar destination quickly and easily.  Whether for fun or safety, GPS can give parents of college students peace of mind.