Apps to track your kids and family members

If you want to feel a bit safer about knowing where your kids are when they leave the house this spring and summer, or you want the ability to keep track of your family and friends,  a number of apps can make it happen.

Footprints is an app that allows you to see where your kids are at any given time. The app runs in the background and uses a device’s GPS capabiloties to help parents make sure kids get where they’re supposed to be. You can also set up so-called geofences, such as a playground or school yard, and get an alert if your kid leaves where they’re supposed to be. The app is free for iOS with premium services available for purchase.

Family Tracker allows users to set up a tracking system for multiple family members. As long as they have their phones and have agreed to set up a Family Tracker system, users can see where everyone is at any time. Users can even send messages to each other through Family Tracker. The app is $3.99 for iOS and $4.99 for Android with in-app purchases available to expand capabilities.

The Lassy Project app aims to build a community network of family, friends and neighbors who look out for everybody. Participants opt-in and create a profile. If someone goes missing, a message to relevant recipients is sent – showing a picture along with a real-time map that includes coordinates of a last know locations. The app is free for iOS and Android.