Verizon Urges Customers to Prepare “Digital Go-Bag” Ahead of Winter Storm Fern

As Winter Storm Fern approaches, staying connected could be critical for people across the region.

Verizon says it is preparing its network ahead of the storm while encouraging customers to take steps now to stay connected if power outages or severe weather occur.

The company recommends putting together a “Digital Go-Bag,” which includes simple but important steps such as turning on power-saving mode, downloading offline maps, and relying on text messages instead of phone calls during emergencies.

“You want to make sure your batteries are ready,” said Alonso Castillo Cuevas, Communications Integrations Manager with Verizon. “Always send texts instead of making calls, and make sure you have power banks charged for your phone, your tablet, and especially those power banks.”

Verizon says texting uses less network capacity than calling and is more likely to go through during high-demand situations. Keeping devices fully charged can also help people stay connected longer if power is lost.

Officials stress that preparing devices now—before weather conditions worsen—can make a significant difference if Winter Storm Fern impacts the area.