In article , LouB
wrote:

2. In many respects, a cell phone is better for contacting 911 than an
ordinary land-line. A cell phone connection, for example, can't be cut by
the invading goblins.


Yabut a cell phone system can be easily overloaded in a big emergency.

Agreed. So can INCUMBENT telco landline service, but not even close to
"easily".

And you can bet that the INCUMBENT (former RBOC - Regional Bell
Operating Company), still subject to performance testing and
requirements, will provide service in the same emergency that is
SUPERIOR to the lesser-capable [cable TV company] phone service that is
less tested or required to comply with performance minimums.

In the event of "slow dialtone" from landline service in a disaster
area, one need only STAY on the line and dialtone will be presented
eventually.

I suspect that current wireless technology requires constant "redialing"
to eventually, if ever, complete the call as, I believe, wireless calls
fail or time-out after a preset, relatively short interval.
--

JR