Sprint Nextel announced that its networks continue to be operational following Hurricane Ike as Sprint technicians work to restore service in the impacted areas by moving in portable generators and Cell Sites on Wheels to ensure customers have wireless service.

Sprint’s Emergency Response Team received dozens of requests from first responders, local government and businesses in the impacted area. Sprint ERT personnel are supporting agencies with additional Nextel Direct Connect handsets with Direct Connect and Direct Talksm capability. Direct Talksm enabled handsets can communicate off-network via push-to-talk with other Direct Talksm-capable handsets completely independent of any wireless network.

Another critical resource Sprint provides public sector, enterprise and first responder teams is the Sprint ERT Go-Kit. These kits provide immediate access to mobile communications tools for emergencies, including fully-charged cell phones and wireless broadband cards. The devices have a dedicated hotline for instant activation as needed.

Sprint Foundation and Employees Contribute Approximately $480,000 for Disaster Relief Efforts

From donated wireless phones and pre-paid calling cards, to cash contributions, Sprint Nextel, its foundation and employees have contributed cash and in-kind donations worth approximately $480,000 for the individuals impacted by Hurricane Ike. Contributions to the American Red Cross include:

-A $100,000 grant to the ARC Disaster Relief Fund from the Sprint Foundation,

-15,000 domestic calling cards worth over $220,000 to the National and Houston chapter of the ARC,

-An estimated $30,000 in employee contributions and company matching gifts and

-250 wireless phones worth over $130,000 from Sprint’s ERT.

Sprint customers also can text message the word “give” to short code 24357 to make a $5 donation to the American Red Cross. The donation will be billed on the customer’s wireless phone bill. Standard text-messaging rates will apply.

Additionally, Sprint continues to work with customers in the hardest hit areas by Hurricane Ike on their service needs.

Vinod /ITvoir network