In an effort to provide a reliable cellular network during the 2007 Hurricane system, Verizon Wireless has rolled out a team of “test-men” in special vehicles to fine tune its all-digital network and ensure reliable, comprehensive coverage and call quality across the state of Florida.

During the 2004 and 2005 Hurricane season Florida was hit hard and according to Verizon their networked was stable and reliable while others were not, they have sent out these teams to make sure their network remains stable during the 2007 Hurricane season.

Additional highlights of the Verizon Wireless 2007 hurricane preparation include:

The company has developed and practiced a comprehensive emergency response plan, including preparing emergency command centers around Florida in the case of a storm or other crisis.

More than 82 percent of the individual transmission sites operated by Verizon Wireless in Florida have their own on-site generators, many of which were retrofitted this year with expanded fuel tanks to extend their power-generating capacity. This capability is critical when power goes out and if roads are impassable in the wake of a storm.

The company has a fleet of dozens of Cells on Wheels (COWS) and Cells on Light Trucks (COLTS), that can be rolled into hard-hit locations or areas that need extra network capacity. Network teams also have more than 200 portable generators ready to go to further strengthen the network.

Pre-arranging fuel delivery to mobile units and generators to keep the network operating at full strength even if power is lost for an extended period of time.
Verizon Wireless is again fully prepared to quickly set up wireless emergency communication centers (WECCs) to serve residents and rescue agencies in the area(s) of greatest need.

The company has expanded its EV-DO wireless broadband network, including launching its highest-speed Rev. A network across the state. This allows the most advanced wireless services (downloads, location-based applications, video messaging, etc.) and makes the network more robust for usage by residents and emergency agencies. Rev. A technology features typical download speeds of 600 kilobits per second (kbps) and average upload speeds of 500-800 kbps.
The recent acquisition of two $150,000 disaster response units that can be used as temporary customer service locations in areas impacted by a disaster. Each 35-foot long trailer features advanced communications capabilities and an air-conditioned canopy area, and also provides access to phones, accessories and EV-DO services for residents.