It is a terrible time for Los Angeles, Southern California as wildfires have caused destruction the city will never forget. Strong Santa Ana winds made the fires even worse on Tuesday, January 7, claiming many lives and destroying over 12,000 buildings. Many people have been forced to leave their homes.
During this crisis, staying connected to help and loved ones is among the top priorities. It’s why the big three mobile carriers have set up special offers to aid affected communities.
Carriers chip in to combat California wildfire
The Los Angeles fires have lasted over a week. As the city is trying to recover, AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile have offered their help to affected locations. If you’re impacted, whether employee or customer, you’ll get unlimited talk, text, and more perks.
Our heart is with the Southern California communities experiencing such devastating loss. We are committed to supporting wildfire relief efforts in these areas and ensuring residents and first responders have robust connectivity in this critical time of need.
Marc Blakeman, President, AT&T California and Pacific States.
AT&T
From now till February 15, 2025, AT&T is waiving overage charges for wireless customers, allowing unlimited talk, text, and data. The carrier has also donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross and is matching 100% of employee donations to organizations such as the California Fire Foundation, the LA Fire Department Foundation, the California Community Foundation’s CA Wildfire Recovery Fund, and the American Red Cross.
In addition, AT&T has satellite technology, backup power generators, and mobile cell sites through their FirstNet network, designed specially for firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and others. If the fire has caused damage to any cell towers and cut off coverage, the carrier should release portable towers that will restore connection.
Access to free Wi-Fi and charging stations are also available at the Westwood Recreation Center in Los Angeles, the Pasadena Convention Center, Arcadia Community Center, and other areas.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile is no stranger to California fires, with their efforts going back to the 2019 wildfires where they sent and re-fueled generators to more than 260 sites over the weekend, among other efforts. This time around, the carrier is offering unlimited talk, text, and data for T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, and Assurance Wireless customers who don’t already have those features.
They are also increasing data for Mint and Ultra Mobile customers, as well as stationing the Starlink Direct-to-Cellular service. It makes basic texting and emergency communication possible even when mobile network is down.
T-Mobile and Starlink already successfully sent their first emergency wireless alert via satellites back in September 2024, and launched beta testing for subscribers in December that same year. In addition, you can find free relief supplies, Wi-Fi, and charging options at select T-Mobile stores and other locations.
Verizon
From January 9–18, Verizon will waive call, text, and data charges for wildfire victims. So no need to worry about paying extra on your Straight Talk or Tracfone prepaid plans. If your billing cycle has already closed, they’ll refund any additional charges automatically. The offer also applies to regular Verizon and small business customers with up to 50 lines.
The carrier is actively working to restore service, using portable generators to support affected areas, and also giving free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and mobile communication centers. Their stores will also be open during these times for you to access those perks and get emergency device replacements. The carrier has even committed to a $500,000 donation each to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and the American Red Cross.
Stay safe and vigilant
The support from AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile will go a long way in reconnecting you with the world in these difficult times. That said, personal safety should always come first. Keep an eye on trusted news sources or official updates to know if fires are spreading or further evacuations are needed. You should have an emergency bag ready with water, food, medicine, flashlights, and any important documents.
If evacuation orders come, don’t wait. Leave immediately to protect yourself. A face mask will help greatly if you must go outdoors, but you can make do with a damp cloth or bandana over your nose and mouth if you don’t have one. Take care, and stay safe.
