The State Journal- Register (Springfield, IL)

***Editor’s Note: We included this story with our news because we feel that it brings up a thought-provoking issue that callers might be dealing with as they consider calling 9-1-1, and we wanted to raise the issue for discussion.

DEAR ABBY: A friend was a victim of domestic violence. She didn’t phone 9-1-1 because “They play those 9-1-1 calls on the radio all the time.” She didn’t want her husband’s career damaged.

Today, a group of us discussed the issue. Many said they’d be hesitant to phone for help, too.

Someone is going to suffer serious harm out of fear their call will be publicized. Do you know what can be done about this “drama entertainment”? I wouldn’t want my call heard either. – PUBLICITY-SHY IN FLORIDA

DEAR PUBLICITY-SHY: Nothing can be done about “drama entertainment” as long as the public has an appetite for it. It draws viewers and listeners – which means advertising revenue.

In the case of domestic violence, calling 9-1-1 is the lesser of two evils. Abusers have been known to maim and kill. Ask yourself if your friend’s husband’s career was worth risking her life for. It makes more sense to risk a 9-1-1 call being broadcast than to have reporters camped on your lawn while they carry your body out on a gurney.

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