App provides location during emergency calls

Since Dec. 1, the OPP Provincial Communications Centres have been using the mobile application what3words to help people in need when a caller cannot describe or does not know where they are located.
Through its global mapping system, the app labels every three squared metres with a unique three-word location string which can be converted into latitude and longitude coordinates for entry into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system in use at the PCCs.
What3words is a free application for iPhones and Android devices that works off the cellphone’s Global Positioning System (GPS) or offline without mobile data if the caller already has the mobile app downloaded on their cellular device.
Even if the caller does not have the app previously downloaded on their mobile device, the PCC communicator can send a link to the caller’s cell phone which will enable the caller with data access to find their what3words location. The app is available in 43 languages but shares the location in English.
“This app allows for an excellent opportunity to save precious time in an emergency and enable our PCCs to support a more rapid frontline response. The OPP encourage all to become familiar with the app and consider adding it to your cellular device,” said police.