Natural Disasters & GPS – The Reasons Why Project Lifesaver Utilizes RF Technology
Our opinions about GPS are no secret. Does it serve a purpose in our society? Absolutely, but its capabilities are limited and unreliable… are those adjectives you wish to describe technology meant to keep your loved ones safe? We think not.
Yet, there are many families utilizing devices that work solely on GPS capabilities as the only source to protect their special needs loved ones in the event of elopement. However, what would happen should a tragedy strike in their hometown? What would happen should cell towers become destroyed, diminishing all traces of coverage? What then would those families do to help locate their loved one in the event of elopement?
All GPS-enabled locating devices, including those select options offered by Project Lifesaver, require cell coverage to function properly; even with the slightest coverage interruption, the GPS could malfunction or delay causing inaccuracies. There is no exception.
This is why we rely so heavily on the use of radio frequency. A major advantage of radio frequency technology is the accuracy of signal and the strength of the signal, which is only minimally diminished by physical obstructions if the individual is in a building, or by weather conditions. Even in the current conditions in Puerto Rico, radio frequency will remain functioning without hindrance, while GPS-enabled devices will lose all functionality entirely.
“Why use radio frequency technology? Radio frequency technology is old, aren’t there more opportunities for caregivers if you utilize more modernized technology, such as GPS?”
One thing about that statement is true: radio frequency technology is old. However, it has proved repeatedly to be the most reliable and accurate technology for use in special needs search and rescue. It is because it is an older technology that it can – guess what – still work without any difficulty in an area that is ‘disconnected’. After all, it was created in a time that, in comparison to society today, practically was disconnected. That is why we utilize radio frequency technology in our program; because life is precious, and we will only use the best tools available to protect it!
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