what3words: Precise Location Made Simple

"I'm lost on a trail near..." is not enough.

"I'm at ///shadow.cliffs.rainfall" tells us exactly where you are.

What is what3words?

what3words has divided the entire world into 10-foot squares and given each one a unique combination of three words. Every location on Orcas Island - from remote hiking trails to hidden coves - has its own three-word address.

For example:

  • ///marine.sketches.unload = Eastsound Fire Station front entrance

  • ///cabin.awoke.swims = Moran State Park parking area

  • ///crisp.headset.nails = Deer Harbor Marina dock

Why This Matters on Orcas Island

"I'm somewhere on Mount Constitution" could mean anywhere across hundreds of acres of wilderness.

"I'm at ///alpine.sunshine.rocks" puts you within 10 feet of your exact location.

Island Challenges We Face Daily:

  • No street addresses in wilderness areas, beaches, or marine locations

  • Limited cell coverage that makes GPS coordinates hard to share

  • Complex terrain where "near the big rock" doesn't narrow it down

  • Multiple trails and access points that sound similar

  • Emergency response times matter more when mainland hospitals are a ferry ride away

How Orcas Island Fire & Rescue Uses what3words

Search and Rescue operations - Find lost hikers, boaters, and hunters quickly

Fire investigations - Document exact locations of evidence and incidents

Marine rescues - Locate boats in distress without relying on changing GPS coordinates

Medical emergencies - Direct ambulances to precise pickup points on long driveways or trails

Dispatch coordination - Share exact locations between fire stations, responders, and mutual aid

How to Use what3words

Download the Free App

  • iOS and Android - Search "what3words" in your app store

  • Works offline - Uses your phone's GPS even without cell service

  • Always free - No ads, no subscription, no tracking

When You Need Help

  1. Open the what3words app

  2. Your location shows as three words (like ///table.stone.river)

  3. Tell the 911 dispatcher those three words

  4. Help arrives at your exact location

Before You Go Out

  • Save important locations like your campsite, boat launch, or trailhead

  • Share meeting points with your group using three words

  • Take a screenshot of your location as backup

Perfect for Orcas Island Adventures

Hiking and Camping

  • Save your campsite location - never lose your tent again

  • Mark interesting spots along trails

  • Share exact locations of wildlife sightings or scenic viewpoints

Boating and Fishing

  • Mark your favorite fishing spots precisely

  • Share anchorage locations with other boaters

  • Report marine hazards at exact coordinates

Emergency Preparedness

  • Know your home's what3words address for emergency services

  • Share cabin locations with guests and emergency contacts

  • Mark safe rally points for family emergency plans

Island-Specific Tips

Save your location before you lose signal - The app works offline but you need signal to initially locate yourself

Practice saying the words clearly - "///cash.bump.wizards" and "///cash.bumps.wizard" are different locations

Double-check with the dispatcher - Repeat the three words to confirm accuracy

Use it for non-emergencies too - Direct repair services, delivery drivers, or visiting friends

Real Impact

what3words has helped emergency services worldwide locate people in:

  • Dense forests where GPS coordinates are hard to communicate

  • Remote beaches without road access

  • Mountain areas above treeline

  • Marine emergencies miles from shore

Get Started Today

Download what3words now - Don't wait until you need it

Find your home's address - Open the app at your front door and save those three words

Share with family - Make sure everyone knows how to use it

Practice before you explore - Test the app in your neighborhood first

Questions?

Contact Orcas Island Fire & Rescue at (360) 376-2331 if you have questions about using what3words for emergencies.

Download the app: Search "what3words" in your app store
Learn more: Visit what3words.com

Remember

Three simple words can save precious time when every second counts. In emergencies, precise location isn't just helpful - it's lifesaving.

Your safety is our priority. Make what3words part of your island adventure toolkit.