The Safer Walking website has more information on other ways and technologies to support a person who has a risk of going missing.
GPS devices or apps on mobile phones are a very good way to locate someone – but they only work if they are:
- Kept on the person whenever they are likely to go walking.
- Charged up and turned on – mobile phones and other GPS devices generally need charging every couple of days.
- Usually a data plan will be required.
- Within the cellular network coverage area.
- Treated carefully especially mobile phones that can be broken if dropped onto hard surfaces.
Mobile phones
If the person at risk of going missing and has a mobile phone that they keep with them when out – there are several apps that can be installed to aid in location of the person. There are online reviews of location sharing apps that may help in deciding what one will fit best, for example: https://www.mobileappdaily.com/best-location-tracking-apps review updated on 21 July 2020
GPS Location Devices
There are a number of GPS location devices available in New Zealand.
GPSOS pendant or watch
An example of a GPS location devices is the GPSOS pendant or watch device.
- The location of the device can be provided by the GPSOS customer care team 24/7 – on request only from an authorised person
- A geofencing feature can be enabled to provide alerts if the pendant leaves the geofenced location
GPSOS has been locally designed and provides support across New Zealand for more information and prices go to their website.
Spark’s Spacetalk Kids Watch
Another example of a GPS watch designed for children is the Spacetalk watch, it can be purchased from Spark.
Medical Alarms with GPS location
There are GPS enabled medical alarm options – these offer a raft of features. See the below links for information about one such device available in New Zealand that are funded for individuals that qualify for MSD’s Disability Allowance:
TraceCare offers the buddi system for information go to their website:
