During the past year , Verizon Wireless has invested more than $ 1 billion in eight states where hurricanes have had their most devastating effects . The company 's ongoing investments and preparations proved critical during and after past years ' extraordinary storms when the Verizon Wireless network remained strong while many other wireless communications networks struggled . As a result , emergency response officials and residents were able to make calls , send text messages and harness the company 's high-speed wireless data services on the Verizon Wireless network to communicate with emergency officials , support services , businesses , families , friends and co-workers .