What 3 Words - Explained

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The following information is simply to help readers understand a way of locating a lost person, or sending information should you become lost. It is in no way a means of disregarding or replacing map reading skills, which we firmly believe are an essential requirement for anyone venturing out into remote locations.

Police Forces and Mountain Rescue teams across the UK are now using this system to locate lost or vulnerable persons.

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In an emergency situation, finding your current location is paramount to getting help to you fast. Until recently walkers have used Grid references and GPS co-ordinates using free apps such as OS Locate, and Googles My location. However there is a new kid on the block which can very easily find your exact location and share with family, friends, and emergency services. Download the app for free here.

So how does it work.

what3words has divided the entire planet into 3 x 3 metres squares, with each square having its own unique three word identifier. Use this 3 word address to pinpoint on the what3words map and get that much needed help to you fast.

Navigating to a 3 word address

There are 2 ways you might receive a 3 word address:

  1. As a link, i.e. w3w.co/parent.green.robot which you can click to open the 3 word address in the app.

  2. As three words said over the phone , radio, or in a text message. Then you can type or say the 3 word address into the app’s search bar.

Once the 3 word address is displayed at the bottom of the screen, you can get directions to that precise location:

1. Tap the curved arrow icon in the bottom centre of the screen, to get directions in your preferred navigation app.

2. The 3 word address is translated into GPS co-ordinates and will open in your chosen navigation app.

How to find a 3 word address

Use the what3words app to find the 3 word address for where you are, to pinpoint the location of an incident or to add more precision to a street address.

  1. Open the what3words app and tap the ‘your location’ icon to see your current location, or tap the search icon and enter a street address.

  2. Tap the ‘grid square’ icon to zoom for more detail.

  3. Switch to satellite and move the pin to select the precise location.

  4. The 3 word address is displayed at the bottom of the screen.

Once you have the 3 word address, you can share it directly from the app, or say it over the radio or phone to make sure other responders find the location quickly.

When you receive a 3 word address

You may be given a 3 word address over the phone, receive one in a text message, email or see one written down.

  1. Open the app, and enter the 3 word address into the search bar, remembering to put a dot between each word (parent.green.robot)

  2. Check that the location in the drop down menu aligns with the callers description.

  3. Select the correct 3 word address to view the precise location.

  4. Switch to the satellite view and zoom in for more detail. Use this to confirm the location with your caller.

What 3 Words, Grid Reference or both?

W3W now has the ability to show a 10 figure grid reference as well as the W3W. On the W3W app, simply go to settings, and then display settings. Scroll down to Country Specific systems and on British National Grid select 10 Digit grid reference. Now go back to your home screen and you will see a 10 figure grid reference displayed under the W3W. Simples.