To call or not to call 911

I often see comments on this sub about taking every threat of self-harm seriously and calling 911 both to protect our loved ones and to get them to stop using such threats as manipulation.

My own therapist has given me this advice as well. I’ve enacted it. I’ve encouraged and witnessed my mom enact it.

But then I keep reading stories like this one and wondering how on earth I’m supposed to feel ok with that choice.

How do y’all weigh the risks of calling or not calling 911? Have any of you found other alternatives?