We spoke to AT&T spokesman Brad Mays, who investigated the incident. Mays says that after the couple called AT&T, they were transferred to Dish Network, and a Dish Network representative did not follow the disaster policy Dish has in place. Mays ensures us that they’ve contacted the couple, and they will not be charged for service cancellation or equipment fees.
The company notes that it’s the policy of both Dish and AT&T to not penalize disaster victims. “We are providing several no-cost options for fire victims to suspend their phone, broadband and satellite service, including a pause of service, with no equipment fees,” says the company. As we mentioned yesterday, they’re also helping victims by offering free phone and Internet services throughout the impacted counties.