Verizon Wireless Network Reliable in Wildfire Areas

AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless has been working diligently to keep its wireless communications network functioning in the path of the Central Texas wildfires so that firefighters, people impacted by the Bastrop fires and others affected by the disaster have access to 911 emergency services and can be in contact with family and friends.

Verizon Wireless is helping in and around Bastrop by providing volunteers, and the company has set up a station where residents impacted by the Bastrop fires can place telephone calls, charge phones and send email messages. The Verizon Wireless stores in that area are open for business and are providing similar services to those affected by the fires.

These relief efforts are a part of the company's ongoing commitment to provide reliable wireless service to the community, especially in times of crisis.  

Over the years, Verizon Wireless has made intensive investments and preparations that have proven critical during and after other catastrophic events. These preparations include deploying teams of "Test Men" to ensure network coverage is strong; maintaining a fleet of dozens of Cells on Wheels (COWS), Cells on Light Trucks (COLTS), and Generators on Trailers (GOaTS); adding cell sites, and many more initiatives.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's fastest, most advanced 4G network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 106.3 million total wireless connections, including 89.7 million retail customers.  Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 83,000 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.

SOURCE Verizon Wireless