Plainfield Township, Mich. — A young adult was safely rescued after becoming stranded in a tree in a wooded area of Plainfield Township, thanks to the timely assistance of local fire departments and a location-based app.
On Sunday afternoon, the Plainfield Township Fire Department received a call regarding a climber who had become stuck about 1,800 feet off a main road. The individual, who had initially scaled the tree with relative ease, found himself stranded after the branches broke while attempting to descend. Fortunately, the climber was able to use the What3Words app to help first responders pinpoint his exact location, which played a crucial role in the rescue operation.
What3Words is an app designed to provide precise location data by dividing the world into 3-meter squares, each assigned a unique three-word address. This technology has been increasingly adopted in emergency situations, as it allows responders to locate individuals in areas where traditional navigation methods may be ineffective.
In this case, the app helped firefighters quickly identify the climber’s position in the dense woods. The Grand Rapids Fire Department joined the Plainfield Township team in the operation, which concluded without injury.
“The app made a huge difference in locating the individual quickly and efficiently,” said a spokesperson from the Plainfield Township Fire Department. “We’re grateful to have the technology that helps us serve our community in emergencies like this.”
Fortunately, despite the climber’s initial difficulty with his descent, no injuries were reported. Both fire departments were praised for their quick response and teamwork, ensuring the young adult was brought to safety.
This incident highlights not only the importance of quick-thinking and collaboration among first responders but also the growing role of technology in modern-day rescues.
