Contact:
Howard Riefs, 414.520.3535
SBC to send technicians, equipment to help restore phone service to hurricane victims
MILWAUKEE, Sept. 27, 2004 — SBC Communications today announced it is helping BellSouth recover from the damage caused by Hurricane Ivan by sending much needed telecommunications equipment, technicians and additional resources to areas affected by the storm. The company will be sending more than 100 expert technicians along with trucks filled with necessary equipment to help fully restore phone service to victims of the hurricane that ripped through much of the Gulf Coast, including Alabama, Florida and Mississippi, earlier this month.
“We are joining the dedicated relief workers, emergency crews and area citizens who are easing the burdens of hurricane victims throughout Florida,” said Kirk Brannock, President of SBC Midwest Network Services. “Restoring phone service to victims helps people establish some sense of normalcy in a very difficult situation. We sent the manpower and resources necessary to help get the job done. We will do all we can to support Bell South in their efforts.”
In total, 26 technicians, made up of supervisors, construction technicians (linemen) and cable qualified technicians from Wisconsin left for Florida on Saturday, arriving on Sunday evening, to begin working around-the-clock to restore phone service. Technicians from the network garages in Green Bay, Madison, Milwaukee, Racine and Waukesha will be transported mainly to Pensacola, Florida, but will be sent to hurricane-damaged areas as needed.
“In a year with an unprecedented number of hurricanes, it’s reassuring to know that BellSouth has the backing of our peers at SBC,” said Rod Odom, president of BellSouth Network Services. “We have always been there for each other when needed. Thank you SBC.”
SBC and BellSouth technicians will prioritize service to affected police and fire units, emergency management officials, and other emergency service organizations by helping them set up command posts and alternative communications systems as part of the restoration process.
