The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has issued a release this morning, indicating that Verizon land lines are down. Per the statement: “The Sheriff’s Department would like to advise all residents in the Big Bear area that per Verizon, at approximately 6:30am this morning (Monday, May 25) the phone lines to call down the mountain are down. According to Verizon, residents are able to make local calls, however they cannot call down the mountain or 911 from their home phones. The Sheriff’s Department has been advised that cell phones appear to be working and anyone needing assistance can call 911 from their cell phones and will reach a Sheriff’s Department dispatcher. Verizon is aware of the problem and have personnel working to repair it.” Verizon land lines were also down, per the Sheriff’s Department, for about two hours on Sunday morning. Per the Big Bear Lake Fire Department, for those without cell phone access, emergency dispatch can be reached locally by dialing 866-0100.
Update: As of this afternoon (May 25), the Sheriff’s Department reports that phone outtages have been intermittent, but also affecting Verizon customers in the Running Springs area. There are also unconfirmed reports that AT&T users have had issues with cell phone reception. For all residents of both the Big Bear Valley and Running Springs, dial 909/866-0100 in the case of emergency if unable to access 911.
Update as of 4pm: Phone service for those with Verizon and/or AT&T is said to be restored at this time, though Verizon customers in Running Springs may still have intermittent service. If unable to access 911, dial 909/866-0100 for emergency dispatch.