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.