Verizon Wireless Deploys Resources In Western Massachusetts To Assist In Recovery Efforts

SPRINGFIELD, MA — To assist recovery efforts across Western Massachusetts in the wake of Wednesday’s tornadoes and severe weather, Verizon Wireless deployed additional resources to augment wireless communication, network capacity and coverage in and around Springfield, Mass.

On Wednesday, the company reached out to first responders - including local, state and federal agencies - to offer emergency assistance. In response to requests, the Verizon Wireless Crisis Response Team has:

• Delivered six mobile power generators for use by local police and fire departments, as well as FEMA
• Distributed 45 mobile handsets to local police and fire departments
• Added call handling capacity to several exiting cell sites in the areas most affected
• Recharged resident’s cell phones inside local Communications Stores

At the request of City of Springfield officials, the company on Friday morning deployed an 18-wheeled ‘Emergency Response Vehicle’ (ERV) to the Emergency Management Command Center at the Basketball Hall of Fame. The ERV will enable public safety personnel to charge 50 plus wireless devices at the same time, access the Internet and connect with other public safety personnel.

In addition, Verizon Wireless pledged $20,000 to the Pioneer Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross to immediately assist people affected by the June 1 devastation.

The Verizon Wireless Crisis Response Team works closely with emergency management officials to support recovery efforts. The company’s commitment to network reliability, business continuity and disaster preparedness has proven critical during and after past hurricanes and other disasters. Learn more about Verizon Wireless’ ongoing disaster preparedness and find tips and information to help you stay connected before, during and after an emergency by visiting the Verizon Wireless Emergency Preparedness site.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s fastest, most advanced 4G network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 104 million total wireless connections, including more than 88 million retail customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visit 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.

####