Key Issues

Hurricane Preparedness

CABLE INVESTS IN HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS
Cable again sets the standard in high tech advances

Innovative technologies and comprehensive disaster preparedness plans adopted by Texas cable companies to protect Texans in times of weather emergencies are yet more examples of the cable industry’s commitment to invest in the most advanced technology to better serve its customers.

Cable providers in Texas have spent billions of dollars of private capital in the last decade to upgrade their systems, and there’s no better investment than the public’s safety. Helping Texans to protect themselves and to stay connected during dangerous weather is just one advantage of the leading-edge technologies offered only by cable operators in the state.

Satellite dishes are highly vulnerable in storms. While cable’s services aren’t infallible, the latest technology coupled with other safeguards such as backup power units and relocated distribution lines offer Texans more assurance that their cable-provided telephone, television and Internet will not be interrupted — keeping them connected when they most need to receive and give information.

Other disaster preparedness initiatives by the cable industry:

• Cable system operators across the nation – including Comcast, Time Warner, Charter and Suddenlink that operate in Texas – are reviewing and updating emergency preparedness plans; reaching out to emergency managers, first responders, local government officials and broadcasters to ensure coordination in the event of an emergency; and conducting a fresh assessment of system needs and vulnerabilities.
• The Cable Hope Fund (www.cablehhopefund.org) established by NCTA in the aftermath of the devastating 2005 hurricanes continues to collect and disperse charitable contributions from cable industry companies, employees and other donors. Since September 2005, it has distributed more than $700,000 in aid.