Maui’s tranquil beauty is being tested as wildfires, fueled by hurricane winds, sweep through the area triggering evacuations, power outages, property destruction and loss of life to residents, businesses and visitors. With the people of Maui on our minds, we want to share some of the resources and assistance available to those affected by this disaster so they can stay informed and connected.
How DIRECTV Can Help
Intensifying the devastating nature of the fires, many Hawaiians are left without cell phone service which makes getting and delivering vital information even more difficult. Alongside road closures, payment and call center interruptions and postal delays, it is exceedingly difficult for those on the island outside of immediate danger to conduct daily life and business. There are a few ways that DIRECTV can help.
Continued Access to DIRECTV Service
Satellite networks have the unique benefit of continuing to operate regardless of what’s happening on Earth, which means customers with power will still be able to access their DIRECTV via satellite TV service.
Customers connecting via internet-only through a DIRECTV Gemini device will maintain service as long as a broadband connection is available. All customers can access the DIRECTV App via their smartphone or personal device. This means that vital information or entertainment can be viewed from anywhere, which is critical in the case of a natural disaster, like the Maui fires. Get the DIRECTV App now.
Information Technology Disaster Resource Center
DIRECTV partners with the Information Technology Disaster Resource Center (ITDRC), an organization that collects technology resources to fulfill their mission of Connecting Communities in Crisis. Learn more about the ITDRC and how they’re helping on their website or connect via their 24-hour activation line at 1.866.217.5777.
Account Relief and Assistance
DIRECTV is working with customers on a case-by-case basis in the 19 affected zip codes* to provide assistance and relief. This includes helping with account suspensions, caring for damaged equipment, working through billing issues and more.
This is just a few of the ways DIRECTV ensures that communities remain connected. Learn more about how the company helps during natural disasters, including during hurricane season.
How Others Are Helping
Many companies and organizations are doing their part to assist Maui people in need.
- With cell service outages in some areas of Maui, AT&T is pitching in by waiving certain fees including talk, text and data overage charges, as mentioned in a CNN article.
- Airlines, including Southwest Airlines and American Airlines, are stepping in to help people get off the island by adding additional flights, larger aircraft and discounted fares.
- CNN offers a “lite” site that helps in a low bandwidth connectivity situation with minimal graphics and short loading times.
- Apple’s free Emergency SOS allows iPhone users to contact dedicated dispatchers in emergency situations via satellites. When a user attempts to call 911 and is unable to get on a cell network, they will be automatically redirected to the service’s dispatchers.
- Hawaii’s Red Cross can be reached at 1-800-RED-CROSS to check on loved ones or access resources. They also provide an emergency app to get immediate assistance.
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