What do you do when your GPS fails to work? Sometimes we rely on technology a little too much. We have a GPS to guide us in our travels, a Smartphone to provide communication, maps, information, libraries and then we have ‘On-Star’ and all other amazing ways to obtain information.
Long gone is the old system of directions! What did our parents and forefathers do when they were traveling from one city to another, one state to another or one country to another? They definitely did not rely on technology. However, since we have so much of it available to us today, we might as well use it when in need.
Generally, when on the road, most of us have at least three options below available to us. And when the three are not, choose one of the other. There’s always a backup or alternate plan. If not, you need to make sure you have one and always have it available when needed.
When your GPS is Not working: Use ‘On-Star’
When I purchased my 2006 Acura 3.5 RL, I noticed it came equipped with both a GPS system mounted in the dash in addition to ‘On-Star’ available. So when I needed a backup option one was available. Little did I realize the advantages to having both. My first thought was, “Why on earth would I need both?” However, later I realized there is definitely an advantage having both in place. If you don’t have a vehicle equipped with both, remember some or most Smartphone’s have a navigational system. Take advantage of both and when one is not available, surely the other is.
When Your GPS is Not Working: Use Your Smartphone
There are not very many ‘smart’ phones without a navigational system. However, if you’re one of those individuals like me who selects the ‘free phone’ whenever possible with your cell phone plan, there are optional possibilities available. Rather than paying an extra $50 per month for the phone or use of the phone dynamics, purchase software that can easily update your phone from a regular android phone to a Smartphone. Advancements in technology is amazing! With just one click of a button, you can change your android by adding receivers to your phone such as the Garmin Mobile 20 GPS Receiver.
When Your GPS is Not Working: Call 911
Did you know you can call 911 when you’re lost? They will not hang up on you, say mean things to you or even charge you with some sort of violation of codes or anything. However, remember calling 911 should not be used for any other reason than an absolute emergency. When you feel you have a crisis situation, anything you consider an emergency, call 911. Their dispatchers have been trained to understand the different perceptions of individuals. They should not make light of your situation when responding. What you consider an emergency might not be what I would consider one, however 911 dispatchers are aware of the sound or to listen for actions as an indication of a person in need or traumatized. If you’re lost, scared and don’t know what to do, call 911.
When Your GPS Is Not Working: Dial the First letter of the State and HP
Whenever on the road and you feel you are in some type of trouble dial the first letter of the state you’re in and follow by ‘HP.’ For example, I live in Florida, So, if I am in Florida and feel traumatized or calling for any reason while on the road, I can dial FHP. However, if I become lost while in Georgia I will dial GHP. Highway Patrol officers are there to help citizens when in need. When in need and on the road, dial for help using the Highway Patrol officers in that state. If however, you have no idea which state you are in, dial 911. You will get the information needed for someone to assist you!
There should always be a backup plan in place when you’re on the road traveling. Never leave home without a plan in place. You never know what you may come in contact with while on the road. There’s still a lot going on in this country and around the world that simply put, scares the heck out of me. You need to have all your ducks in a row before leaving home when traveling. Be safe and not sorry.