‘What3Words’ Divides World Into 3-Meter Squares, Each With Unique Three-Word Combination
CORNELIUS, N.C. — A smartphone app that converts GPS coordinates into three simple words is gaining traction among emergency responders in the Charlotte area, potentially saving crucial minutes when locating people in distress.
The Cornelius-Lemley Fire Department has integrated “What3Words” into their emergency response protocols, allowing them to narrow down a caller’s location to a 10-foot-by-10-foot area using just three randomly assigned words.
“If you are able to tell the dispatcher where you’re at by those three words, they can put us in a 10-foot by 10-foot square,” Lt. Andrew Woodall with the Cornelius-Lemley Fire Department said.
Unlike traditional GPS coordinates that use lengthy numerical sequences, What3Words has divided the entire world into 3-meter squares, each identified by a unique three-word combination. These word triads are easier to communicate over the phone, especially during emergencies.
The technology has already proven to be effective.
“We had a medical emergency out on the lake. They’re not 100% sure where they are. They give those three words, and it put us in the middle of the boat we were trying to reach,” Woodall explained.
Emergency services across the country are increasingly adopting What3Words into their dispatch systems, viewing it as a potentially game-changing addition to their response capabilities. The app functions offline once downloaded, making it particularly valuable in remote areas with limited cellular service.
“It’s literally a little sign of your location when you’re using the app, and it could potentially save your life,” Woodall said.
The free app is available for both iPhone and Android devices and requires minimal setup. Emergency officials recommend downloading it before venturing into unfamiliar or remote locations.
Local 911 dispatchers are trained to guide callers through using the app if they don’t already have it installed when an emergency occurs, though having it ready beforehand saves valuable time.
As more emergency services adopt this technology, officials hope increased public awareness will lead to faster response times and better outcomes in emergencies.
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