At a Glance
- AT&T has deployed hundreds of generators to keep cell towers operational during the winter storm.
- The generators are concentrated in the Dallas area as a proactive measure.
- The telecom giant urges customers to report outages promptly so crews can respond quickly.
AT&T is bracing for a severe winter storm that threatens power lines across Texas and Virginia. The company’s Incident Commander Ken Smith said the storm is widespread, and the firm has been working all week to prepare its network. Customers are encouraged to report outages right away to help dispatch crews.
Winter Storm Threat and AT&T’s Response
Ken Smith, AT&T’s Incident Commander, described the storm as “so widespread, coming all the way from Texas up to Virginia.” He emphasized that ice on power lines and fallen trees could bring down power, directly impacting the company’s network. AT&T’s strategy is to stay ahead of the problem by keeping its critical infrastructure powered.
Preparedness Actions
- Deploy generators across key locations.
- Position personnel for rapid response.
- Monitor power line conditions in real time.
- Coordinate with local authorities for safety.
These steps are designed to keep service flowing even when the grid is down.
Generator Deployment in Dallas
AT&T has brought in hundreds of generators to the Dallas area alone to proactively prepare for potential disruptions. The generators will power cell towers and critical infrastructure during any loss of grid power. This move reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining connectivity during extreme weather.
“We do care about our customers…when we roll into an area, whether it’s a winter storm, or like in Kerrville, as an example, supporting our public safety, that’s an important aspect of what we do,” said Smith. “Public safety is a critical role.”
The generators are positioned near major cell sites, ensuring that if a power outage occurs, the towers can continue to operate without interruption.
Customer Communication and Reporting
AT&T is asking customers to report outages as soon as they might occur and in a timely fashion so it can get crews out to the area quickly. Clear communication from customers helps AT&T allocate resources where they are most needed.
How to Report an Outage
- Call AT&T customer service with outage details.
- Provide location and type of service affected.
- Follow up for updates from AT&T.
Prompt reporting allows AT&T to dispatch technicians faster and restore service more efficiently.
The Role of Public Safety
Supporting public safety is a core part of AT&T’s mission during storms. The company’s infrastructure keeps emergency services connected, and the generators help maintain that link when the grid fails. “Public safety is a critical role,” Smith reiterated.
Key Takeaways
- AT&T’s preemptive generator strategy ensures cell towers stay online when power fails.
- Rapid customer reporting helps crews address outages faster.
- Public safety support remains a priority for AT&T during storms.
AT&T’s actions illustrate how telecom companies are investing in resilience against extreme weather. By deploying generators and encouraging swift communication, the company aims to keep customers connected and safe.
Timeline of Preparations
| Week | Action |
|---|---|
| This week | AT&T has been preparing all week for the winter storm, deploying generators and positioning crews. |
| Ongoing | Continuous monitoring of power lines and rapid response to outages. |
The company’s proactive stance is a reminder that infrastructure resilience is essential in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather.
Bottom Line
AT&T’s deployment of hundreds of generators in Dallas and its focus on customer reporting are key to maintaining service during the winter storm. The firm’s commitment to public safety and rapid response underscores its role as a critical communications provider in times of crisis.
