A Nifty New Tool--Google Latitude

Hansel and Gretel gathered white pebbles to leave a trail so they'd find their way home; it didn't work out the way they wanted. As a person dependent on technologies to get around, there have been times I've been stuck (a dead car battery, flat tire, or bent front-fork) with no means of getting help right away. Google Latitude is a new tool that might provide an extra layer of security for persons like me when stranded.

Here's how it can work:

1. I go to town (via wheelchair) and am expected home at 3 p.m.
2. Making my way home, I unexpectedly hit a sharp object and blow a tire--the jolt has my cellphone fly off my lap.
3. Not home on time, a family member (Brad) calls about 3:10 p.m.--I don't answer because I can't reach my phone.
4. Smartly, I've installed Google Latitude on my cellphone and allow him to see my location. At 3:20 p.m., more concerned as time elapses, Brad tracks my location via Latitude and sees that I'm nearly home but haven't moved in awhile.
5. Brad comes to my rescue.
   

With Google Latitude, you can:

• See where your friends are and what they are up to
• Quickly contact them with SMS, IM, or a phone call
• Control what your location is and who gets to see it

Enjoy Google Latitude on your phone, PC, or both.

Postscript: I haven't tested this as Google Latitude isn't ready for the iPhone just yet. I'll be sure to let you know when it is.