Sunday, July 18, 2010

Less Chaos After a Hurricane with GPS Trackers in Use

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/40x79)
Hurricanes and tropical storms are just part of everyday life in Florida. Houses are built on high foundations, windows have hurricane shutters, and building codes are high. Florida citizens prepare yearly for power outages and flash floods. They are always stocked up on food and water and keep their flashlights in easy-to-find places. When they hear that a hurricane is coming, Floridians shut down and unplug their computers, secure their boats, and bring all of their patio furniture indoors. Could more be done to help Floridians weather the storms that so frequently occur? Could GPS trackers help? Absolutely!

Disasterous Hurricane Ike


GPS tracking devices are small units that can be attached to a vehicle, object, or person to track any movement. Passive trackers record precise location, speed, and direction, and the information from these units can then be downloaded onto a computer and viewed. Real time GPS trackers send signals out to satellites giving the same information, which can then be viewed on a virtual map using any computer with internet access. These systems have been used to track high-value items that could be stolen as well as record record-breaking achievements and competitions. And now they are being used to help Floridians during a power loss.

Florida Power and Light, a company that services the South Florida area, is incorporating GPS trackers into their business. These tracking units will allow them to see where their service trucks are located at all times so they can send the closest one to an area of power outage. Adding GPS technology to their company will allow Florida Power and Light to meet the needs of their customers much more quickly and efficiently which will lead to greater customer satisfaction.

Customers will also be able to notify Florida Power and Light of areas that have lost power. Those who have lost power can use their cell phones to either call, text, or send an email to the company.

GPS trackers will allow Florida Power and Light and other utility companies to respond quickly to the needs of the community, no matter what the circumstances are. Responding quickly is very important, not only for customer satisfaction, but for community safety. When they hear of a coming storm, Floridians can rest assured, not only because they themselves are prepared, but also because they know their utility company is ready as well.

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