Derbyshire Response Response Team shared details of the incident via social media on Sunday.
The group, which has a network of volunteer drivers who use their 4x4 vehicles to lend a helping hand, said: “One of our responders came across a tree fire whilst on a walk. He quickly reported this to the fire service and gave the what3words address to guide them directly to the incident location.
“What3words is a really useful way of giving a location. Particularly in an area like this where there are no distinguishing features and there could potentially be confusion. Thanks to his quick action he potentially prevented a forest fire! Well done!”
The what3words app is used by around 100 UK emergency services.
It works by dividing the world into three-by-three metre squares, giving each one a unique three-word address.