Globetrotter SOS

For travelers using mobile smartphones (which can access the Internet), Globetrotter SOS, Ltd. (1 High St., Thatcham, Berkshire, RG19 3JG, UK; phone +44 845 003 9943, www.globetrottersos.com) has launched an emergency-response service which uses satellite-tracking technology and is available 24/7 anywhere in the world.

Services include “Inform You” (personal briefings on risks and current situations in over 400 countries); “Alert You” (notification while you travel of any situations arising on your route); “Locate You” (inform up to 10 family members and friends where you are and that you are safe), and “Help You” (if needed, send an SOS to a security specialist service for assistance in getting out of danger).

Downloading the “Travel Safety Service” software onto your smartphone will automatically program it. The service costs £55 (near $87), £85, £120 or £175 for two, three, six or 12 months, respectively.