Phone app helps Ontario Provincial Police locate 2 missing hikers

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is crediting a phone app for helping officers locate two missing hikers in North Middlesex.

Police say emergency crews were sent to Mystery Falls Tuesday afternoon after two hikers lost their way.

OPP says the pair used the What3Words app to help officers determine their location.

The duo was found in good health and brought to safety.

#MiddlesexOPP were dispatched to #MysteryFalls @northmiddlesx yesterday afternoon, for 2 lost hikers. With assistance of the @what3words app, the pair were located in good health. Remember, prior to your hike, charge your phone, pack a snack and stay hydrated. Great work!! ^jh

— OPP West Region (@OPP_WR) October 20, 2021

The app divides the world into three-metre squares and assigns each square a unique combination of three words called a ‘what3words address.’

This address gives callers a simple way to describe precisely where help is needed.

Back in July, two lost hikers were found safe after Halton police used the app to pinpoint their location.

The hikers called Halton police and were directed to download the What3Words app.

The pair was quickly located on the trails at Kelso Conservation Area in Milton.

Police across the province encourage residents to download the app to help officers respond quickly when every second counts.

Canada – using what3words in an emergency #Help911FindYou from what3words on Vimeo.