New app could save lives in an emergency

The Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) has developed a new app which has the potential to save lives in an emergency by pinpointing a location to within 100 metres.

More than 1,000 people have already downloaded the free app to their iPhone or Android smartphones and the EHAAT is urging others – particularly those who take part in outdoor pursuits on foot, cycle, motor vehicle or horseback, and those living or working in remote areas – to follow suit.

The app gives instant access to a six-figure grid reference that, in the event of an emergency, pinpoints a location to within 100 metres.

Laurie Phillipson, Clinical Manager for EHAAT, said: “Precious minutes can be wasted trying to locate casualties in remote or unfamiliar areas.

“With the six-figure grid reference we can get to the scene quicker to provide life-saving clinical care before flying the patient to hospital.

“You do not even need an internet connection just a network signal to make a phone call, as the app uses your phone’s built in GPS tracking.

“We’re saying ‘be prepared’, just get the app on your phone and should you find yourself in an emergency in an unfamiliar place and need to dial 999, pass the call handler the grid reference when they ask for your location.”

Hayden Brown, an A Level media student from Bishop’s Stortford, has made a short film to show how the app works.

The app, which has been developed in partnership with the digital agency Rokk Media and with support from the Essex-based electronic and information technology company Selex, can be download for free app from the Apple or Google Play stores. Simply search for ‘Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust’ in either store.

2 September 2015