Yes, 911 is the most reliable contact with the local Sheriff's Dept. PLBs work most of the time, but often the SPOT "here I am" messages I send home never arrive, because the satellite link was weak - or the recipient doesn't read the SPOT email in a timely manner. I believe in multiple ways of communication: 911, PLB, other hikers, a loud whistle, etc., in order to help cover any blank areas of communication. In trouble we need all the help we can get.
