Electronic Ankle Bracelet Rules: Dos and Don'ts to Remember
A straightforward, essential checklist of the daily habits you must adopt to successfully complete your GPS monitoring period.
Successfully navigating a period of house arrest or GPS monitoring requires strict discipline. The technology is unforgiving; it records exactly what happens, when it happens. To avoid technical violations that could land you back in jail, you must integrate proper device care into your daily routine.
At My GPS Monitor, we want you to succeed. Here is the definitive list of Dos and Don'ts for wearing an electronic ankle bracelet.
The DOs: Essential Daily Habits
DO Charge Your Device Daily
You must charge the ReliAlert™XC4 device for a minimum of 2 hours every single day. Make this a set part of your routine—such as charging while watching TV in the evening or reading a book. Allowing the battery to die is a severe violation.
DO Answer Incoming Calls
If your monitor rings, it means the monitoring center is trying to reach you. The device will auto-answer. You must respond clearly. They are usually calling to warn you of a low battery or a schedule issue.
DO Protect the Device in the Shower
While the device is waterproof, soap scum and hard water can damage the charging port and rust the screws over time. Always wrap the device in plastic (like a plastic bag taped securely) before showering.
The DON'Ts: Actions That Cause Violations
DON'T Charge While Sleeping
This is the most common cause of equipment damage. Tossing and turning will bend or break the proprietary charging cable or damage the device port. If you break it, you buy it. Always charge while awake and stationary.
DON'T Submerge the Device
Showering is fine, but you must never submerge the ankle monitor in a bathtub, swimming pool, hot tub, or the ocean. Deep water pressure will destroy the internal electronics.
DON'T Tamper with the Strap
Never attempt to cut, stretch, or slip off the strap. Do not place objects (like socks or cardboard) between the strap and your skin to stretch it. The fiber-optic cables will detect the tampering and instantly alert law enforcement.
A Note on Scheduling
Never deviate from your approved schedule without prior, documented permission from your supervising officer. If you are running late from work due to traffic, call your officer immediately. Do not wait until you are already in violation.
Conclusion
Following these simple Dos and Don'ts ensures that your monitoring equipment functions correctly and your tracking data remains accurate. If you ever experience technical issues, do not attempt to fix the device yourself.