Bell Atlantic Mobile Reports Increase in Wireless Usage Throughout Northeast Region Storm Areas

Bell Atlantic Mobile Reports Increase in Wireless Usage Throughout Northeast Region Storm Areas

January 15, 1998

NEW YORK -- Bell Atlantic Mobile reported up to a 60% increase in
cellular usage in its Vermont market as a result of the ice storm that
has swept through parts of Upstate New York and Vermont. Due to
utility damage and power outages, Bell Atlantic Mobile's wireless
equipment, network and services have played a key role in providing
communications and emergency assistance to utility companies and state
and government officials. Bell Atlantic Mobile reported increases in
wireless usage (based on comparisons of usage patterns from similar
weekdays/weekends) in the following areas:

In Vermont:

• Alburg area: 500% increase in call volume from January 7 through
  January 11 and 1,000% increase in January 9 and 10.

• St. Albans area: increases of 150-200% since the storm onset Jan. 7.

• Additional channel capacity was added to the hardest hit areas.
  Battery and generator backup enabled the system to operate
  continuously with minimal outage throughout the storm and its
  aftermath.

• Bell Atlantic Mobile donated 15 phones and resources to the American
  Red Cross.

In Upstate New York:

To assist in disaster/emergency relief efforts, Bell Atlantic Mobile
donated cellular equipment to:

• FEMA (Federal Emergency Medical Assistance), who activated 115
  wireless numbers.

• Governor George Pataki and his New York State Executive Chamber, who
  headed up a survey team for disaster relief.

• Clinton County Emergency Team, who activated 30 lines.

• New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs, who activated
  35 lines.