In an emergency, being able to give an accurate location can help emergency services find you quickly, especially if you are in a place without a clear address or in a location that is difficult to describe.
what3words is a location tool that has divided the world into 3 metre x 3 metre squares, with each square given a unique combination of three words. These three words can be used to identify your exact location.
How to find your what3words address
You can download the free app from the from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store for Android devices – just search what3words and look for the icon opposite. Alternatively, you can use the what3words online map at what3words.com
Once you have opened the app, tap the current location arrow icon towards the bottom-right of the screen, just above the satellite/map-view button. Your current position will appear as a blue dot on the map.
Your three-word address will then appear on the screen.
If you ever need to call the emergency services and are asked to confirm where you are, you can share these three words with them. This can be particularly useful if you are outdoors, in a large area, or somewhere that may be difficult to identify.
Please remember, what3words does not replace calling 999 in an emergency. It is an additional way to help emergency services identify your location as quickly and accurately as possible
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