911 was actually inspired by a British predecessor, 999, intended for the same purpose. And yes-Public Enemy calling it "a joke" was a very pointed and accurate criticism.
Unfortunately, the system only gets media attention today when people blatantly and comically use it for functions for which it is not intended, which tends to trivialize it.
I certainly hope 988 will become as universal a communications feature as 911- and less mocked.
David, absolutely! I know there are amazing people fielding calls, often for little pay, every day. These people save lives and should have their successes given more attention. It's the infrastructure that sorely needs investment - for both 911 and 988. Thanks for the insight and comment!
911 was actually inspired by a British predecessor, 999, intended for the same purpose. And yes-Public Enemy calling it "a joke" was a very pointed and accurate criticism.
Unfortunately, the system only gets media attention today when people blatantly and comically use it for functions for which it is not intended, which tends to trivialize it.
I certainly hope 988 will become as universal a communications feature as 911- and less mocked.
David, absolutely! I know there are amazing people fielding calls, often for little pay, every day. These people save lives and should have their successes given more attention. It's the infrastructure that sorely needs investment - for both 911 and 988. Thanks for the insight and comment!