Public urged to download what3words app by Nottinghamshire police to make finding people in emergencies easier

People are being encouraged to download a free app by the police to make it easier to locate them during an emergency.

Nottinghamshire Police wants people to use the what3words app, which has divided the world into a grid of 3x3 metre squares, with each square given a unique identifier made of three random words – a what3words address.

If someone is unsure of their exact location, they can simply use the app to establish the area’s what3words address and pass that information onto a 999 operator in order to be found.

The app is free to download for both iOS and Android and also works offline, making it ideal for use in areas of the UK with an unreliable data connection, such as beaches, national parks and campsites – all popular locations during the summer months.

The advice by the police comes as part of the national #KnowExactlyWhere summer safety campaign to raise awareness of the technology.

Superintendent Suk Verma, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Describing exactly where you are during a 999 incident can be challenging – but the what3words app helps ensure resources are sent exactly to where help is needed, fast.

“I personally have downloaded the app, and urge others to consider doing likewise for any emergency situations.”

Chris Sheldrick, co-founder and CEO of what3words, said the app had proved to be a valuable tool, both for emergency services and members of the public.

He said: “It’s useful for organising meet-ups in parks and on beaches, but also provides the peace of mind of knowing that you and your family will always be able to tell emergency services exactly where they are needed.”