PACKTRACK includes a location tracking system designed specifically for K9 teams. In this article we'll summarize how it can be used for deployments and training and then explain some of the key features.

Before using this feature please ensure that your mobile phone is correctly configured. An Android phone must have the "Location" setting enabled and the location settings for the PACKTRACK app should be set to "Allow all the time" and "Use precise location". If you're using an iPhone then ensure that "Location Services" are enabled and that the location settings for the PACKTRACK app are set to "Always" with "Precise location" enabled. These settings allow the app to record accurate locations while the screen is off. Note that PACKTRACK does not track your location unless you're actively using the location tracking feature.

PACKTRACK's location tracking system uses the GPS and other technologies in your mobile phone to record your location at regular intervals and plot a path as you follow a track. A map showing the tracked path along with any associated statistics are automatically attached to your training or deployment records. The location tracking feature requires a modern iPhone or Android device running the latest version of the PACKTRACK mobile app. Download the app from the iPhone App Store or Android Google Play Store.

During tracking operations a K9 team will follow a scent trail. In deployments, they track an unfamiliar trail left by an individual that they must locate, apprehend, or rescue. During training, they follow the route set by a designated Track Layer for the exercise.

After configuring your track settings you may start the track. The system will record your path and can show it live on your phone as you progress. It's typically easiest to turn off the screen and keep the phone in your pocket while actively tracking. Once finished, you may choose to save the track or immediately complete the associated exercise or deployment record. All pertinent tracking data, including duration, distance, turns, and weather conditions, will automatically populate in your record along with a map displaying your route.

Unlike tracking deployments, tracking training is typically done with two people: the track layer and the track follower (K9 team). The track layer may use the PACKTRACK app for free, without an account, while the K9 team requires an account. The track layer first uses the app to record their path. When the laid track is complete it becomes available to follow by any K9 team within 500 yards of the starting point. The K9 team selects the desired laid track within the app and tries to follow it as closely as possible. Alternatively, the K9 team may choose to track without selecting a specific laid track. The track follower's path is overlaid onto the track layer's path (if provided) on a live map. This overlay provides insight into how accurately the K9 team followed the track layer's scent. Note that laid tracks have a limited life and will disappear after 3 days if not used by a track follower.

For detailed tracking instructions on each tracking mode refer to the How To Use Location Tracking article.

There are 2 parts to the tracking interface: the Map View (top) and the Tracking Window (bottom). The Map View is fully interactive and supports pan and zoom gestures. Tap on the Tracking Window title bar to minimize it and show more of the map. If you're viewing a track you can tap anywhere along the path to select a point and see more information in the Track Window. The Layers button in the bottom right of the map switches between Satellite, Road and Terrain map types. If you drag the map then it will no longer scroll to keep you in the center. Use the "Recenter" arrow button, shown in the bottom right of the map, to reset your view and reenable automatic map scrolling. Exit the map tracking screen at any time, even when actively tracking, using the "Minimize" arrow button in the upper right. Get back to your active track using the yellow "Return To Track" banner which is overlaid at the bottom of the screen (not shown).

Use the Tracking Window to control and configure the track. There are three main tracking modes: deployment, training lay or training follow. They all work similarly but have different configuration requirements. Use the LEARN MORE links or the Help context menu in the bottom right of the screen to get detailed information on each mode. Once a track is started the Tracking Window switches to an Active Tracking view which displays your elapsed time, distance and other information. Use the pin buttons to save a specific track location with a label and/or photo.

When the track is complete you can save it for later or choose to complete your record right away. Interactive tracking maps are automatically added to training and deployment records along with any calculated track statistics. While location tracking can only be done in the app, both the app and PACKTRACK website allow you to interact with tracking maps and complete the associated records.

All tracking records can be used to generate reports showing the mapped track and any pinned track photos.

Add pins to the track to identify important locations. Mark your current location on the map by pressing either of the pin buttons while tracking. You can also tap anywhere on a mapped track to select a different location and then tap the Save As Pin button.

The Add Pin button is used to store a label and/or picture (from your library or camera) for the specified track location. The associated coordinates, distance and track duration are all stored with the pin. When you're in a hurry, use the Quick Pin button to capture your current track location by simply taking a picture. This is a handy way to document evidence without delaying your track. Pins may be added (or edited) either while the track is in progress or afterwards when it's complete.

Pins are visible to the K9 team as they follow a training track but only if they've specifically chosen to reveal the laid track before starting. The layer and follower tracks, along with any added pins, are always visible after the K9 team follows the laid track. Laid tracks have a limited life and will disappear after 3 days if not used by a track follower.

Supervisors have access to each handler's deployment tracks and can monitor their progress in real-time. They can also watch multiple deployed K9 teams in the same area as they move on a shared map.