Be Prepared and Don?t Panic

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/OJziW)
by Greg Bartlett

In times of crisis, a minute—even a few seconds—can mean the difference between life and death.  It can mean the difference between recovery and permanent injury.

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Anyone who has ever had experience with first aid or CPR training knows the vital importance of quickly dealing with emergencies.  Emergencies can happen at any time, at any place, to any person.  It can be the collapse of a building during a earthquake; it can be the moment when an elderly adult crosses the line between independence and dependence; it can be the two seconds when a child is left unattended; it can be that one second of drowsiness that hits the driver on the highway.

One way that you can help to close that vital time gap in an emergency is with the use of a GPS tracking device.  Many GPS tracking devices now have an emergency button that allows the wearer to send an alert in a dangerous situation.  Most devices have a battery life of up to 30 days (some even more), and some even receive signal even indoors or in obstructed areas.

If you work on construction sites, or live/work in areas that are prone to earthquakes or other disasters that cause buildings to collapse, you should consider this type of tracking device.  Knowing exactly where you are in the rubble in event of disaster can mean the difference between life and death.  The emergency button sends immediate panic alerts to spread the word that you need help right away.

Other scenarios include car trouble far from home, or assault/robbery.  It could be something as simple as a safety feature and backup for a first-time babysitter—just press the button.  It is also a good feature to use for elderly loved ones who aren’t quite ready to transition into assisted living, but are at some risk for falling or experiencing health problems at home.

GPS tracking devices utilize satellites in outer space, which allows for accuracy in determining location.  This can save time if the victim of an emergency is unable to give direction as to his or her location.  It can simply be determined by the GPS device.  It may seem like taking these precautions may be going to the extreme, but when an emergency strikes, it is always better to be safe than sorry.  You will never regret finding your loved one in time to prevent serious injury and death.