"We demand that the city create an entirely separate system staffed by mental health experts to respond to 911 calls pertaining to mental health crises, and insist that all involved in such a program be put through thorough, rigorous training in conflict de-escalation."
I can hear it now:
"911, what's your emergency?"
"My husband, he's beating me over the head with a tire iron!"
"Please hold for the doctor."
"Hello, this is Dr. Spotty Kred Enshuls. I understand your husband is beating you at the moment with a potentially deadly weapon?"
"Yes! Yes! He won't stop and it hurts!"
"Tell me a little bit about your relationship..."