VTS Blog

/// What 3 Words

Three random words generated by this app could save your life if you need help quickly and don’t know where you are.

The what3words app has divided the world into 3m x 3m squares with a unique three word address.

It can accurately pinpoint your location in an emergency and is free to download for both iOS and Android, or by browser. It also works offline, making it ideal for use in areas with an unreliable data connection.

Nicholas Jones, senior ambulance operations centre manager, has rolled out use of the app across all three ambulance operation centres.

He said: “In an emergency situation, identifying exactly where help is needed is crucial, this can be nearly impossible if you are in an area with no address or if that address isn’t good enough to accurately describe where you are.

“The app is free and you don’t need a signal to use it.

“It’s great for walkers, ramblers, cyclists and anyone going off the beaten track.

“We have used it for patients in a variety of situations, including in forests, someone who fell from a cliff and also someone in an unrouted area.

“You never know when you are going to need help, it’s not something you plan for, so download it now.”

Use of the app went live on 22nd August and has since been used daily across the control rooms.

Chris Sheldrick, co-founder and CEO of what3words, said: “Being in need of urgent help and not being able to easily describe where you are can be very distressing for the person involved and a really difficult situation for emergency services.

“Today people nearly always have their phone on them. Just as you may have your In Case of Emergency contacts set up on your phone, we encourage everyone to download the app to make sure they are ready to quickly share accurate location information, should the worst happen.

“It’s free, it’s simple to use, and one day it might make sure you get the help you need, when you need it.”