Verizon’s MERIT team trains to keep networks working during disasters, ensuring 911 calls, emergency alerts and vital connections reach those who need them most.
RICHARDSON, Texas — In a world where disasters strike, preparedness is key.
This week, Verizon’s Major Emergency Response Incident Team (MERIT) gathered in Richardson for intensive training, honing their skills to restore connectivity when it’s needed most.
The team, comprising 30 members from across the country, trains to respond to natural disasters and hazardous material incidents. Donning bright yellow hazmat suits, the team practices air consumption, air control, and intricate fiber optic repairs — all while navigating physical challenges like climbing stairs or enduring heat in heavy gear.
“I want this to become like a second skin,” said Kelly Reed, Verizon’s Industrial HAZMAT Chief from Oklahoma.
Reed, who has witnessed the destruction of EF-5 tornadoes at home, leads the team with passion. With 17 years at Verizon and experience as a U.S. Navy and Army veteran, Reed is also an assistant chief of EMS and special ops as a volunteer firefighter.
The training includes timed drills, with members closely monitoring their vitals after sessions in full gear, which limits their visibility, oxygen and dexterity.
“You know, we consider our network to be public safety,” Reed emphasized.
The MERIT team’s mission is to maintain communication networks during crises, ensuring 911 calls, emergency alerts, and connections with loved ones remain intact. Whether responding to hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes or hazardous spills, these Verizon employees leave their regular roles at a moment’s notice to serve.
The MERIT team, along with a hazardous materials response rig, a utility tactical trailer and mobile emergency operations center, are all ready for rapid deployment. Recent events they’ve responded to include the Los Angeles wildfires and Hurricane Helene in Asheville, North Carolina.
“It started getting real uncomfortable there at the end,” one team member admitted after a taxing drill.
Yet, with a quick break to check blood pressure and regroup, the training resumed.
The members of MERIT are trained at the same level as public safety and first responders and work alongside them when they are deployed.
