Rescue 911

This show was what we in the industry term as Compelling TV. It was an addictive show that re-enacted all sorts of horrible and gruesome events that leaded up to an actual call to 911. The best part of the show was that it was broken up into segments that were, in effect, 15 minute scoldings for stupid behavior. For instance, a man mishandles a .357 magnum and shoots his friend through the back while they are out in the woods, away from all civilization (and hospitals). Or, 2 girls are playing in a drainage ditch (which is illegal and very dangerous) when it suddenly fills with water and they are swept away. How about the time that some youngsters decided to outrun a train and didn't quite make it. Who could forget the kid who stuck his tongue to the frozen peas. We learned that a cup of water would remedy that situation. (That kid denied the whole incident by saying he was licking his lips because he was so hungry and then his tongue got stuck. Yeah right! Just admit it-your predicament educated the entire country and the ensuing remedy was even referenced in Dumb and Dumber). Then there was the time that a man was cleaning his pool and hit the strainer against a power line, resulting in cardiac arrest. In effect, America learned that rules are made for a reason and that warning labels should always be read; if not, disastrous consequences might ensue. Also, America learned that if an accident did occur, brave men and women would drop everything and risk their lives to save you. It doesn't matter if you deserve it or if it is your fault-help is always on the way.

It's a known fact in life we all need help occasionally. This is another of my favorite documentary programs, it's also kind of a childhood gem which I saw when I was about eight years old. I'm usually I'm not into documentary programs depending on the subject matter but this show is one of the exceptions. This show was a hit at the time, and there really was nothing like it as this show was before we have the common place documentary shows on cable channels or streaming. Heck it was such a hit there was even a pinball game based on the show, which I played and is cool it's one of my favorite pinball games of all time, only disappointment William Shatner's vocals weren't in it.

Anyway, watching this now is interesting in a way makes this a history program as each of stories happened years ago. The reenactments are pretty good, I wouldn't say great as their not all too fanciful looking, but hey their reenactments what do you expect. But the fact they're not fanciful looking I feel adds to the realistic sensibility, a way of showing this isn't your typical TV show episode this is real life. Some would say there are a few stores that are a bit strange, and seem ridiculous, but we live in a strange world so it happens and as an old saying goes truth is stranger than fiction and who's to say it can't happen.

I really like William Shatner as a host, yes, I'm a "Star Trek" fan, but other than that I thought it was cool seeing him do something different, and it's fitting as he role of Captain Kirk is one of high authority. His voice just fits like a glove, here he really tells things at they are in all seriousness. I love the theme song which is one of my favorite themes, it's kind of an exciting them but with a touch of seriousness, but the theme felt right as it sang out how help is always on the way.

The show is suspenseful, thought it's true that you can easily predict the 911 rescuers will come through in the end, but the suspense is wondering how, and no one really comes out unscathed which once again shows how truly dangerous the situations are. It was also cool seeing the police and other emergency workers in action, it's also educational in seeing what these people in this line of work have to do to defuse the bad situation, but also makes you grateful that we have services like this around.

I remember the home break in situations I'll admit we're the ones that made me the most nervous and I'll admit scary the mere thought of burglars breaking into your house unannounced. I couldn't help but be on the edge of my seat hoping the police will arrive on time.

Or even the fire situations hoping everyone got out let alone an entrapment situation or two which made me hope I never got into that. Despite how scary those stories can be sometimes, the show taught me a couple of important lessons as a kid which is how the world can be a dangerous place and these dangerous situations can happen to anyone. But also, the importance of calling for help when absolutely needed.

I personally wouldn't mind a revival of this show, I'd like to hear some of the stories going on right now. For a host I wouldn't mind seeing William do it again or maybe some other sci-fi alumni "Patrick Stewart, Michael Dorn, Kate Mulgrew." Yeah, I know long shots but an interesting though none the less and who's to say it shouldn't be considered. Overall if your into vintage documentary shows, ones that have to do with emergency services then this is worth dialing up. Just remember help is just a phone call away.

Rating: 4 stars

I was little when I used to watch this show, probably under 5 years old. I don't remember William Shatner, but I do remember certain episodes: the one where a boy locked himself in the trunk of a car, and one where a child licked a tray of ice cubes and got his/her tongue stuck to it. The ice cube one has always stuck in my memory, and any time after I saw that episode and got my tongue stuck on a Popsicle, I knew how to get it unstuck without freaking out.

This show showed real stories and helped families learn what to do in certain situations. It was both entertaining and educational - a great combination.

I would like to see a new version of the show. I like how the show explains real accidents that actually happened.

This is a rather exciting reality TV series featuring William Shatner as he hosts police-related stories. As he narrates, actors reenact true events of 911 rescues.

It's a very daring, heartfelt and intriguing TV show as it shows the courageous rescuers helping people in distress, sometimes in a heart-pounding race against time.

Shatner does a good job narrating, providing a serious and eloquent tone to his voice.

One of the better reality chop shows out there.

Grade B+