Shelby County (Tenn.) officials have taken their problem of 911 abuse seriously–they hired a public relations firm to survey citizens and come up with a way to educate them about the proper use of 911. The survey found that residents realized what serious situations qualified for 911, but had a “gray area” about less-serious incidents. About 40% of those surveyed said they’d dial 911 for drug selling or shoplifting, and 23% said they’d dial 911 for to report a no-injury car accident. Perhaps worst, 76% of citizens said they use 911 because they can’t think of alternative telephone numbers. The county has set up 511 for traffic and 211 for library services to take some load off of 911, and are considering other changes to help.
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