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Verizon keeping communities and customers connected ahead of Delta

2020 MERIT FEMA Type 1 Command Trailer for the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury 1.jpg
Posted at 11:30 AM, Oct 08, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-08 12:30:50-04

Verizon is working to make sure the communities and customers they serve stay connected during Hurricane Delta.

The company says that they have backup power in the form of batteries and generators at cell sites and network facilities to ensure that networks can continue to run during possible power outages.

With the possibility of damage to fiber cables, Verizon says that a fleet of satellite enabled portable equipment is available to serve as a temporary alternative and aid in the restoration of services.

Verizon says they are supporting the efforts of first responders by providing access to their network when needed.

Mobile Wireless Emergency Communications Centers, Tactical Command Trailers, and Response Trailers are ready to deploy to support first responders and community members during recovery efforts, they say.

The company has also provided steps customers can take before the storm makes landfall to ensure they stay connected.

Device preparation:

  • Ensure all battery-powered devices are fully charged before the storm hits. This includes wireless phones and smartphones, laptops, tablets, flashlights and radios
  • Wireless devices can be a key source of information and communication in the event of an emergency, so be sure to keep phones, tablets, laptops, batteries, chargers and other equipment in dry, accessible locations like re-sealable plastic bags, dry bags or waterproof cases
  • In case of evacuation, make sure you know where your chargers are, both wall and vehicle charging cords, and have portable device chargers fully charged and next to your device

Know and back up your info:

  • Maintain a list of emergency phone numbers and email addresses, including police, fire and rescue agencies; power companies; insurance providers; and family, friends and co-workers. Program them into your phone, smartphone, tablet or laptop and also have a hard copy handy, someplace easily accessible
  • Backup your information on Verizon Cloud - Verizon offers backup assistance through the Verizon Cloud to store your phone’s address book and contact information as well as pictures and other content on a secure server
  • Record video/take photos of your possessions in your residence before severe weather hits

Bookmark resources:

  • Download weather applications and alerts that provide users with a variety of information such as radar images, forecasts and severe storm warnings
  • Program your smartphone to receive emergency alerts. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are free wireless notifications that are delivered to your mobile device by local/national public safety organizations
  • Also in case of evacuation, bookmark your emergency resources on your phone so you can research any special restrictions, limitations or instructions if you need emergency shelter, medical care or other support that may be impacted by COVID-19.

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