In a bid to enhance the efficiency and precision of locating 911 callers in need, Miami Beach emergency services have announced their adoption of the What3Words app. This cutting-edge technology offers a unique solution to the challenge of finding individuals in areas that lack clear street addresses, such as beaches and parks. According to a press release from the city, reported by WSVN, the app works by dividing the world into 3m x 3m squares and assigning each one a unique combination of three words.
"Every second counts in an emergency. What3Words helps our first responders find people faster," Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner stated, as mentioned in WSVN. In situations where the caller is unsure of their location, dispatchers can send out a link to the caller's mobile device, which in turn, provides the three defining words that correspond to their exact position.
The process, as described in the 991 WQIK report, involves a caller reciting the three words back to the dispatcher, who can then translate them into a precise location for emergency crews. Miami Beach Fire Chief Digna Abello, who oversees the dispatch operations for police, fire, and medical calls, emphasized the utility of What3Words by declaring, "What3Words gives us an added advantage in finding people quicker, especially in areas without street addresses or when a caller is disoriented."
Interestingly, the app does not require download or installation on the caller's phone, as it operates via a simple link sent to the individual during an emergency call. In a post from October 2, 2024, What3Words also highlighted their commitment to accessibility, noting, "We've designed a step-by-step guide for how to find a what3words address, featuring clear audio descriptions and simple instructions, specifically for people who use the read-aloud function," as reported by 991 WQIK.
