While about 85 percent of the Verizon Wireless Florida digital network remained up and running throughout the storm, the technicians worked to restore any downed sites and to deploy mobile transmission units to boost network capacity in areas where residents and rescue workers must rely on wireless communications in the hurricane's wake.
Network teams had 28 COWs (cells on wheels) and COLTs (cells on light trucks) and more than 200 generators ready to go to strengthen the network. In addition, Verizon Wireless is prepared to quickly set up wireless emergency communication centers (WECCs) to serve residents and rescue agencies in the area(s) in the greatest need, with the location(s) soon to be determined, in conjunction with state officials.
After Hurricane Charley, thousands of residents in southwest Florida who lost landline phone service and/or coverage from their wireless carriers were served at the WECCs to make free phone calls and e-mails, and to charge and/or service their phones. Verizon Wireless also provided more than 500 phones to rescue agencies, and nearly one million free minutes of airtime to victims and rescuers.
More than 750 Verizon Wireless phones were available for use by rescue agencies responding to Hurricane Frances.
"Wireless communication is a critical resource, especially during an emergency," said Mike Lanman, Verizon Wireless Florida region president. "That's why it is so important for us to respond quickly and comprehensively like this in a time of crisis, and, more importantly, to build and prepare our network to perform well in any situation."
More than 85 percent of existing Verizon Wireless transmission sites in Florida have their own back-up generators and extended battery back-up to operate during power outages. During Charley, the network remained operating at approximately 90 percent capacity during the storm, and was back at 100 percent just a few days later.
