Transcript Doug Brammer, Manager of Government Affairs at Verizon

Power Outages and
Emergency Communications
November 13, 2012
Verizon Storm Preparation
• Review and update emergency preparedness plans.
• Conduct testing and exercises to test readiness.
• Conduct meetings/ conference calls with emergency preparedness and
restoration teams, including PSAPs (9-1-1 call centers).
• Stock critical supplies in centralized locations for rapid deployment in hard-hit
areas.
• Test generators and top-off their fuel tanks.
• Fill vehicle fuel tanks at the end of the work day.
• Vendors on ‘stand by’ for replenishment of supplies.
• Review plans to move vehicles and other portable equipment from low-lying
areas areas.
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Pre-Storm Preparation for
Consumers
• Develop a systematic action and communications plan; keep the plan updated.
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Include a communications plan (“Who calls who”)
List supplies and items to take with you if evacuation becomes necessary
Buy extra batteries, water, and other appropriate supplies
Ensure an adequate supply of prescriptions/ medications
Make pet care arrangements
et al.
• Follow the guidance/ instructions of government leaders.
• Notify others if you relocate or evacuate (e.g., family, co-workers).
• Update a list of emergency phone numbers and email addresses
 Include police, fire, and rescue agencies, the power company, insurance providers, family,
friends, and co-workers
 Program their numbers into your phone, smartphone, tablet and/ or laptop.
 Print a hardcopy of the numbers and keep them in a safe, dry place
 Store the name/ number of a person to contact under the contact name “ICE” (In Case of
Emergency)
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Pre-Storm Preparation for
Consumers
• Fully charge all electronic devices.
• Test car chargers for your electronic devices.
• Consider forwarding your home telephone calls to your wireless number.
• Keep cell phones, PDAs, tablets, laptops, extra batteries, chargers and other
equipment in a dry, accessibly location. Consider storing them in a clear,
sealable plastic bag.
• Social media and email accounts can serve as a way to stay connected.
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Post-Storm Preparation for
Consumers
• Assess damages with extreme caution. Downed lines, poles, and trees could
be energized and deadly.
• Report hazardous situations to appropriate local authorities (police, fire, power
company. Do not touch anything or assume everything is ok until authorities
have investigated and cleared the area.
• The power company must restore power lines before Verizon crews are able to
begin restoring telephone service.
• Please be patient during restoration periods.
• To report a service outage you may contact 1-800-Verizon (837-4966) or online
at: www.verizon.com/outage or www.verizon.com/repair
• Verizon Wireless stores will open as soon as possible and will allow customers
to recharge their devices regardless of who their carrier is.
• Credit will be given if your phone service is out over 24 hours after you report it.
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