High tech device protecting kids from abductions

PHOENIX - A California company has some high tech equipment that might help save a child from being kidnapped.

It is called “ SecuraTrac” and is small enough to fit in a child’s pocket. The GPS device was invented by businessman Chris Holbert who does business in Arizona and around the world.

The device has an “S.O.S.” button. When a child pushes that button, it sends an e-mail and text alert to a parent or guardian that they are in trouble. The message includes a detailed description for where the child is located and directions to them.

“Even if it is ditched, it lets us know within minutes where the child was when the button was pushed,” said Holbert.

Parents can also set up “virtual fences” for their children that would alert them if their child left or was taken from their preset boundaries.

Holbert said many parents are using that function with their older children as well.

“As children become driving age, then it has a speed alerts,” Holbert said. “Parents can also expand the fence to say even the county to allow their teens more freedom.”

He said teens and parents have been positive about it because it allows the kids to be out without having to call in constantly.

The device starts at $129 plus a $20 monthly service charge.