As I sit here writing this, Tropical Storm Isaac is making it’s way around the Atlantic Ocean, much like Hurricane Irene did at this time last year. It did some major damage along the NC coastline, and if the storms form just the right way, we may be in for some again this time. I sure hope not. Through all the wind and the rain, I wasn’t too terribly worried about the storm. The part that really bothered me was losing power. What if something happened, and we didn’t have the use of our phones? It worried me, especially because all we use here is our computer or our cell phone. Last year, when we lost power, we lost everything. The cell tower near us went out, and we had no phone service. We were with Sprint at the time, and I wanted to get my text message emergency alerts.

This year, I have a Verizon cell phone.. My Samsung Galaxy SIII.. which has had amazing 4G LTE service out here so far. It’s awesome, considering, every other cell service is still on 3G or less.  I was doing some research and found out that Verizon actually does some decent preparation in areas that are known to get hit by natural disasters, like hurricanes.

Verizon Wireless has prepared its North Carolina network and emergency response teams to serve customers in the event of major storms and other emergencies. With year-round intensive investments and preparations, the company has extensive, behind-the-scenes emergency response plans to ensure that our customers maintain maximum connectivity in unexpected situations.

Verizon Wireless’ ongoing investments and preparations have proven critical during emergency situations in previous years. Proactive initiatives include:

• Constructing new cell sites with on-site back-up power.
• Arranging Cells on Wheels (COWS), Cells on Light Trucks (COLTS), and generators on trailers (GOaTS) for immediate deployment to hard-hit locations or areas that need extra network capacity.
• Prearranging fuel delivery to mobile units and generators to keep the network operating at full strength even if power is lost.
• Ensuring residents of impacted areas can reach loved ones and start personal recovery by readying mobile stores and charging stations for deployment, as well as collaborating with local response agencies to prepare emergency equipment.

These initiatives are part of a network investment exceeding $1.5 billion in North Carolina since the company formed in 2000, which includes the recent launch of 4G LTE in Jacksonville, New Bern, Burlington, Hickory, Rocky Mount, Goldsboro, Wilson, Roanoke Rapids and Kinston. Other North Carolina cities with 4G LTE include: Asheville, Charlotte, Durham, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Greenville, High Point, Lumberton, Raleigh, Washington, Wilmington, and Winston-Salem.
Disclosure: I am participating in the Verizon Wireless Ambassador Program and have been provided with a wireless device and three months of service in exchange for my honest opinions about the product.