Three simple words could help Perth County emergency services locate you very quickly, if you download a new app they've adopted with.
Local 911 operators are now using the what3words app, a way to let dispatchers know exactly where you are based on a specific trio of words.
The location technology divides the globe into a three-by-three metre grid and attributes a specific combination of terms to each spot.
So by telling operators "glazes" "shoelaces" "stifle," you can give them an exact spot on the G2G Trail, instead of saying "somewhere between Monkton and Milverton."
Perth County Fire Coordinator Bill Hunter says it should be a big help.
"It makes sense that it would improve out response times," he said. "If you're on the G2G Trail, there's only certain access points, so if we know exactly where you are, we can get to the closest access point to get onto the trail to get to you."
First responders are encouraging Perth County residents to download the app in case of an emergency.
Hunter says it also have practical applications in everyday life.
"Obviously our big concern is emergency services, but let's say your kids were at a music festival and they call and want to be picked up," he said. "Rather than say 'I'll be standing on the side of the road outside the festival,' they send you the three words and you put it into your app and it will take you right to that location."
The app is free to download and comes with no ads.
For those with privacy concerns, Perth County Fire Coordinator Bill Hunter says your location won't be shared unless you want it.
"I know you're going to get people saying, 'Oh somebody is keeping track of where I am,'" said Hunter. "Google Maps knows where you are anytime you open up the app. It's going to give you the location, but it's not following you... unless you want to send those three words, nobody is getting that information."
Those looking to learn more can visit the what3words website.
