
01 Oct what3words could be a life changer
Many places don’t have addresses especially when you are on a trail and working out grid co-ordinates can be error prone. A new concept in working out precise locations and simpler than grid co-ordinates has been launched called what3words.
By assigning each 3m square in the world a unique 3 word address that will never change – walkers, travellers and other users can easily navigate straight to a precise location or record their position with just three words.
Also, street and place names can be difficult to pronounce in unfamiliar languages and what3words is available in 35+ languages, a 3 word address can be switched into another language instantly.
How do I use what3words in an emergency?
- Find the 3 word address for your current location (on the free what3words app for iOS and Android). It works offline – ideal for areas with unreliable data connection.
- Share your 3 word address over the phone to the call handler.
- The emergency service can then coordinate a response directly to the exact location where help is needed.
Currently The South Western Ambulance Service covering Gloucestershire are using the service.