Emergency Cell Phones Offered to Public

With an abundance of donated cell phones on hand, volunteers working with the Crescenta Valley Sheriff's Station announced this week that all members of the public are eligible to receive one that has been programmed to automatically dial for emergency assistance.

Previously, the emergency cell phones were available only to senior citizens. Although there is no service provider, the phones are able to reach 911 as long as the phone can hold a charge, in accordance with federal regulations.

More than 900 cell phones have been provided to seniors in the foothill communities since the inception of the program, and phones have also been donated to other communities wishing to begin similar programs. Additionally, cell phones have been provided to school crossing guards, Neighborhood Watch programs, battered women shelters and several other agencies.

"The station's Cell Phones for Life program is one of the most popular programs operated by the station's volunteers," said spokesperson Joanne Berg. "Because of the public's generosity there are many phones ready to be 'adopted' for use."

Ginger Hunnicutt, chairman of the program, welcomes requests for cell phones for anyone in the foothill communities regardless of age. To request a cell phone, contact Deputy Mike Carney of the Community Relations Office at his direct line, 236-4021. The CV Station is located at 4554 Briggs Ave., La Crescenta. A request can also be made in person at the station's front desk.