The problem of shooting in schools is now becoming more and more prominent. Dozens of students die every year in mass shootings in educational institutions. At the same time, the public is wondering about the work of rescuers and freedom of information. This also includes free access to 911 audio recordings that anyone can listen to. However, the issue of making the recordings available to the general public has generated extensive debate and litigation in the courts. Many believe that people have a right to know what happened and have access to 911 records. However, from an ethical point of view, releasing the documents is a traumatic decision for the victims’ families.
Although many people believe that the release of the records is related to the activities of the government, this question has the other side. The release of audio recordings can serve as an exacerbation of grief for many relatives. The information will be actively discussed in the media, not allowing people to get distracted from what happened and live a new life. Thus, the release of the records could be detrimental to the mental health of the victims’ families.
Moreover, there is a danger that the records will be used to profile the work of state organizations and for personal gain. For example, the victims’ families suggest that after the release of the records, surveillance and persecution may begin (Susman, 2013). In this regard, the state must protect the population from possible danger, so the documents must be archived. However, a compromise is likely that will satisfy both sides. Rescue services may release written transcripts of recordings without names or identities. In this case, the public will be provided with conclusions about the work of the rescue services, and the families of the victims will be able to feel safe.
Reference
Susman, T. (2013). 5 key points debated in the decision to release Newtown 911 calls. Los Angeles Times.