Stay Safe on the Trails: The Importance of Emergency Plus App for Women Hikers

As women who love the great outdoors, we know that safety should always be a priority when hitting the trails. Whether you're embarking on a solo adventure or joining a group hike, having the right tools and knowledge can make all the difference in an emergency situation. That's why we’re sharing this information on an essential Australian phone app called Emergency Plus, along with its innovative feature, what3words.

The Emergency Plus App is a lifesaver in your pocket. This app is a must-have for every hiker's smartphone. Developed by Australia's emergency services, it provides a quick and easy way to contact emergency services and share your precise location, even when you're in remote areas with limited mobile coverage.

Here's how it works:

  1. Emergency Calls: In case of an emergency, you can dial Triple Zero (000) directly from the app. This ensures that you're connected to the appropriate emergency service—whether it's police, fire, or ambulance—based on your location.

  2. GPS Coordinates: Emergency Plus automatically detects your GPS coordinates and displays them on the screen. This information is crucial for emergency responders to locate you quickly, especially if you're unable to provide detailed directions.

  3. Additional Features: The app also includes useful features like first aid information and emergency contacts, making it a comprehensive tool for handling emergencies in the outdoors.

What Makes what3words So Special? Emergency Plus is integrated with what3words. What3words is a revolutionary geocoding system that has divided the entire world into 3-meter squares, each uniquely identified by a combination of three words.

For example, the entrance to a hiking trail might be identified as something like "///brave.jungle.tiger." By simply sharing these three words, you can pinpoint your exact location with remarkable precision, even in areas without traditional addresses or landmarks.

Here's why what3words is a game-changer for hikers:

  1. Precision: Traditional GPS coordinates can be challenging to communicate accurately, especially in stressful situations. With what3words, you can provide a simple and precise location that anyone can understand, whether it's emergency services or fellow hikers coming to your aid.

  2. Universal: what3words covers the entire globe, making it a valuable tool for hikers exploring remote and unfamiliar terrain, including the vast Australian wilderness. No matter where you are, you can rely on what3words to convey your location with accuracy.

  3. Offline Capability: One of the most impressive aspects of what3words is its offline functionality. Once you've downloaded the app and the corresponding map data, you can use it even when you're off the grid, ensuring that you're never truly lost in the wilderness.

As women who love to explore the great outdoors, it's essential to prioritize safety on every adventure. By equipping yourself with tools like the Emergency Plus app and embracing innovative features like what3words, you can hike with confidence, knowing that help is just a tap away.

Before you head out on your next hiking excursion, take a moment to download Emergency Plus and familiarize yourself with how it works. And remember, while the beauty of nature is unparalleled, it's always crucial to be prepared for the unexpected. Happy trails and stay safe out there!

Jo Vartanian