While on the freeway this afternoon, we witnessed a semi's refrigeration unit catch fire. So what did we do? We called 911, the way we were programmed in school and throughout our lives to do.
It was busy.
Yes, folks 911 gave us a busy signal. We called back again and were put on hold for a few minutes. We hung up and tried to get the number of the California Highway Patrol, but the operator wanted to know why we didn't hang up and dial 911? When we explained the situation, he found it hilarious. Hilarious because it wasn't him witnessing what may become a fatal situation. But he gave us the number anyway and they were busy too. On a Saturday afternoon. Even the Sheriffs were busy.
So, we called 911 for the third time... And was put on hold for a few minutes...
A couple of years ago, I was just dropping my cat off at the groomers when a car decided to chase me down. 911 gave the busy tone. A few months later, I was driving to a party when I found myself followed... I wasn't able to get a hold of 911 then either.
Point of all these stories is, what the hell are we paying our taxes for if 911 is going to be busy whenever we have a true emergency? How can they act so dependable when every time I dial those numbers I can't reach them?
Infuriating.
Posted by *~-mOi-~*
at 2:39 PM PDT
