1. Do I need to load any additional software to locate the person I care for?     
No.  The system is fully web enabled,  you need only an internet connection and standard computer web browser to login to the Safe2Walk web site.
 
2. How accurate is the unit?     
The devices can provide quality location information to within 10 meters accuracy depending on factors that can affect GPS signal.

3. What device installation is required?     
No installation is required, just charge the unit, ensure it is switched on with a flashing green light showing and you are ready to go.

4. How long should I charge the battery for?
To fully charge the battery please keep it on charge for at least three hours prior to use.  Please refer to the user manual provided for more information.

5. How long will the battery power last?
The battery has a usual usage period of approx. 14 hours. This can vary due to a range of factors.

6. How does the system work?
The system works by the GPS device receiving signals from satellites orbiting the earth.  The satellites cross reference with each other to give an accurate location of the GPS device.  The device has been set up to connect with the satellites every minute and report every ten minutes.

7. Can it be used as a mobile phone?
The GPS device is about the size of a small mobile phone and has 3 pre programmed numbers allowing a person to make contact with friend or relative if required.  Failing to connect with the first pre programmed number it will then attempt connection with the second and third pre programmed numbers. The three preprogrammed numbers are the only ones able to call the device and the device will auto answer after ten rings.  The device automatically ends the call on completion of the conversation.

8. Can it be used as a panic alert?
When making a call from the device it will automatically send the latest location and act as a panic alert, transmitting the last known position of the device to the carer via SMS and email.

9. What is a Safe Distance Boundary?
A virtual boundary can be set at a distance pre determined by family carers and people with dementia.  This may be set at the distance a person with dementia may normally walk and should he or she go beyond this point, family carers will receive a text message alerting them that the person they care for is going beyond the normal route travelled.

10. Can I access the service if I live in a regional area?
Yes, as long as you have Vodafone mobile phone coverage. To check coverage visit: www.vodafone.com.au If you do not have Vodafone coverage we may be able to provide a device with Telstra phone coverage, please go to http://www.telstra.com.au/mobile/networks/coverage/maps.cfm 

11.  Is there any situation in which the device will not work?
The accuracy of the device may be affected if the device is inside a building or has no direct line of sight with the satellites. If the device is not switched on or the battery is not charged the device will not work.

12. Who hosts the tracking platform?
The Tracking Platform is hosted by a Western Australian based company.  A confidentiality agreement exists with the company to ensure privacy of client details.

13. Who has access to the location of the person I care for?
Relevant staff at Alzheimers Australia WA and the hosting company for maintenance purposes.  Any person who has access to the information will have signed an Alzheimers Australia WA confidentiality agreement and will abide by its privacy policy.

14. What do I need to do when I receive the device?
When you recive your Safe2Walk pack charge the device until the red light flashes, once charged switch it on and place outside until green light is flashing, this may take up to 30 minutes. Then log onto the website, type in the username and password provided and you are ready to begin.

15. How do I locate a lost person?
Locating a lost person is a simple three step process, logging onto the website, typing in the username and
password, and a map automatically shows the last known location of the person carrying the device.  It is possible to see the route
travelled over a period of time, please refer to the information provided in the user manual, as well as an ability to carry out an immediate search to get the most up to date location of the person. A location can also be done via a mobile phone by sending a text message.

16. What do I do if the person I care for is lost and I am unable to locate them via the system.  
Please refer to the missing person’s information sheet in the pack provided; a detailed account of the process is outlined with useful tips on getting assistance from the emergency services.

17. Does the device work anywhere in the world?
It may be possible to set up the Safe2Walk device so it can be taken on an overseas holiday. There are additional fees for this and as it is reliant on an overseas mobile phone carrier may not be as reliable in coverage. Please contact us if you are considering using the device outside of Australia. The device will work anywhere in Australia where there is a Vodafone or Telstra network.