Orange Beach, Ala. - (OBA) - Baldwin County, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, offers a multitude of outdoor activities to its residents and visitors alike. As summer kicks off, it is crucial to be prepared for emergencies while enjoying the great outdoors. One simple yet highly effective solution is the free What3Words app, which has already saved lives in Baldwin County since its introduction.

When wireless calls are made to 9-1-1 they normally receive what's called a Phase I location, which is based on the cell tower location, or a Phase II location which provides coordinates from the phone's GPS, unfortunately they don’t always get them; and when they do, they can be up to 300 meters from where the caller is actually located. What3Words provides location accuracy within 3 meters and is much easier to use and understand compared to the Lat/Lon provided from the wireless carriers. It's much more difficult to communicate the Lat/Lon coordinates than it is to communicate the W3W location, like ///earbuds.scratches.graph.

What3Words: A Revolutionary Location System:

The What3Words app is a unique, easy-to-use location platform that accurately pinpoints any location on the planet using a simple 3-word address. The app divides the globe into 3-meter squares, assigning each square a unique combination of three words. This innovative system ensures precise locations can be easily shared, making it indispensable in emergencies.

Baldwin County Emergency Services is Harnessing the Power of What3Words

Baldwin County 9-1-1 has embraced the What3Words app as an integral part of its emergency response toolkit. In the event of an emergency, knowing your W3W's location can save valuable time if you have to call 9-1-1. The app has proved to be invaluable in situations where traditional addresses or GPS coordinates might be insufficient or difficult to communicate. As a result, the use of What3Words has saved lives in Baldwin County since its implementation; including a man whose kayak overturned in Mobile Bay last July.

Baldwin County 9-1-1 Director Joby Smith said that they are in discussions with the Alabama Gulf State Park and the Alabama Division of Lands to have What3Words markers placed throughout their trails once funding can be found.

 Why the What3Words App:

1. Swift and Accurate Emergency Response: The app ensures that emergency responders can quickly and accurately locate you in case of an emergency, reducing response time and potentially saving your life.
2. Simple and User-Friendly: The What3Words app is easy to use, with no need for prior knowledge of GPS coordinates or mapping systems. The app works even without an internet connection, making it perfect for remote locations.
3. Versatile and Compatible: The app is available on iOS and Android devices, and its 3-word addresses can be easily shared with friends, family, and emergency services. The app is also compatible with various navigation apps, allowing for seamless integration into your existing travel tools.

 As the popularity of outdoor activities in Baldwin County continues to grow, the importance of being prepared for emergencies cannot be overstated. The What3Words app is a free, accessible, and lifesaving tool for anyone who ventures outdoors.

Download it today and join Baldwin County 9-1-1 in harnessing the power of this remarkable location system. It could be your life that's saved next!