A child goes missing every 40 seconds in America, reports the National Child Identification Program (NCIDP). Many never return home. According to the NCIPD, 400,000 run away from home, 300,000 are abducted by family members, and 50,000 are abducted by non-family members each year. If your child was to go missing, what would you do? Would you be able to react quickly? Now there is a free new tool that can help in the case that your child suddenly disappears, reports Home Security Store.
According to a FBI press release, the Bureau just launched the Child ID app. This is the first mobile application created by the FBI, which provides a convenient place to electronically store photos and vital information about your children so that it’s literally right at hand if you need it. You can show the pictures and provide physical identifiers such as height and weight to security or police officers on the spot. Using a special tab on the app, you can also quickly and easily e-mail the information to authorities with a few clicks, reports the FBI.
“I think it’s an awesome idea,” says Justin Marini. “I have two little girls who mean the world to me. They say the first 24 hours are the most crucial if your child goes missing. The faster you can get information to the authorities, the better. To prepare beforehand with an iPhone app like this is a smart decision. After the fact, it’s hard to get your thoughts and plan of action together,” Marini said.
Parent Lolli Cleyman agrees. She is mother to a 14-year old and 6-year old, both boys.
“Schools nowadays offer safety ID packets including information on your child. It’s a neat idea because you never think something bad is going to happen to your family, but in the case that it does, you are prepared,” Cleyman said.
Cleyman even took her safety preparation to a whole new level, having had a DNA profile created with a strand of hair of her youngest son Jeremiah. And with technology today, a DNA profile is not the only way to help locate a missing child. Child tracking and GPS devices are readily available through online security retailers.
“I cannot imagine seeing one of my grandkids on the news or being part of an AmberAlert. With GPS tracking devices, I have a reliable way to know they will be safe,” said Home Security Store Vice-President Ralph Winn.
Winn says the Loc8tor Child Tracking Device and the SecuraPAL GPS Tracking Units are great ways to help keep tabs on your kids or other loved ones.
“With the child tracking devices you will know where your kids are at all times. Worst case, if your child does go missing you can track them with GPS or, as is the case with the Loc8tor, audible alerts,” Winn added.
For its part, the FBI is working to publicize their app with the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA)—its long-time partner in the National Child Identification Program, which provides a physical kit to gather your child’s pictures, fingerprints, personal characteristics, and even DNA.
About Home Security Store, Inc.
Home Security Store is the premiere online ecommerce website specializing in affordable DIY wireless and hardwired home alarms, security camera systems, fire protection, spy equipment, survival gear, and more. The company brings together highly-trained, professional technicians and a state-of-the-art product line to provide the most comprehensive security source found online. The company offers FREE and FAST shipping, plus FREE tech support. For more go to http://www.homesecuritystore.com.
