Joint Press release
Contact: Contact: Steven Florio Kristina Murray (401) 256-5511 Office/VP (401) 462-7063 steven.florio@cdhh.ri.gov kristina.murray@ema.ri.gov
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND OFFERS FREE ELECTRONIC DEVICE CHARGING AT EVENT
For Use: Immediately
Date: November 8, 2018
Re: Charging Trailer & 17TH Annual Coffee Hour
The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) is empowering residents with its new mobile devices charging trailer.
The charging trailer made its first appearance during the 17th Annual Coffee Hour hosted by the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (RICDHH) at the Rhode Island State House on November 7th at 4:00pm. In addition to a trailer, there are nine kiosk-style charging tables, four of which were in use at the Coffee Hour. In all, 230 devices can be charged up with the trailer and tables.
Steven A. Florio, RICDHH Executive Director, says, "In addition to our 17th Annual Coffee Hour event at the State House, this new charging trailer offers an important lifeline to the deaf and hard of hearing community where they can reach their family members, friends, and legal/insurance resources using their smartphones during a challenging time."
RIEMA Acting Director Marc Pappas says, "The potential of this charging trailer during a power outage is enormous. We can drive into a neighborhood that has lost electricity and allow residents to utilize the charging trailer, so they can stay connected to their friends and family. It's one way that RIEMA is preparing for your worst day."
"We can't predict power outages, but we can plan for them," said Brian Schuster, Director of Community and Customer Management at National Grid in Rhode Island. "RIEMA's new mobile charging trailer, alongside National Grid's Community Assistance Van, are great assets to help Rhode Islanders stay connected when they need their devices the most."
The charging trailer and tables are made possible by a grant from the Department of Homeland Security. You will see them at different events and locations throughout the state. They are capable of charging both Android and Apple devices. While you're charging up, stay connected and better prepared by visiting www.riema.ri.gov. ###