VNR Available to Media: Significant Strides in Verizon Wireless' Gulf Coast Network Operation and Recovery Efforts

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BEDMINSTER, NJ — WHO: Verizon Wireless, the nation's leading wireless service provider

WHAT: VNR illustrating Verizon Wireless' hurricane relief and recovery efforts across the Gulf Coast, including:

Verizon Wireless network restoration and support efforts:

  • Deployment of Verizon Wireless' COWs (Cell on Wheels) and portable electric generators to provide back-up and enhance service in areas impacted by Hurricane Katrina
  • Verizon Wireless Disaster Recovery teams at the company's national Network Operations Control Centers monitoring cell sites and switches and identifying service status and conditions

Verizon Wireless community support and outreach efforts:

  • Re-opened Verizon Wireless Communications Stores in Katrina's path providing free communication and technical support for hurricane victims
  • Verizon Wireless Emergency Communication Centers (WECCs) helping evacuees place calls and send TXT Messages

Verizon Wireless "2HELP" donation program:

  • Verizon Wireless customers can donate to the American Red Cross directly from their wireless phones

WHERE: VNR can be found at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia

WHEN: Available now

BACKGROUND: Throughout the year, Verizon Wireless comprehensive disaster recovery efforts test emergency generators and back-up batteries to maintain service in the event of a power outage. In hurricane affected areas, Verizon Wireless support staff and equipment, including COWs (Cell on Wheels) and thousands of wireless phones to be used and distributed to emergency personnel, from throughout the country are being brought in to support the restoration effort.

As evacuations began from New Orleans and other hard-hit areas, Verizon Wireless established two Emergency Communication Centers (WECCs) to help evacuees place calls, recharge their phones, get technical support and assistance from customer service, free of charge. Verizon Wireless has helped reunite many families that have been separated, as well as help evacuees reach family members that have been displaced.

CONTACTS:
In Gulf Coast:
Patrick Kimball
Verizon Wireless
281.686.1937 (mobile)
Patrick.Kimball@verizonwireless.com

In Atlanta:
Sheryl Sellaway
678.339.5564 (office)
404.695.5564 (mobile)
Sheryl.Sellaway@VerizonWireless.com

National/Public Policy:
Jeffrey Nelson
908.306.4824 (office)
Jeffrey.Nelson@VerizonWireless.com

All Other Calls:
Brian Wood
908.306.7901 (office)
Brian.Wood@VerizonWireless.com

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 47.4 million voice and data customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

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