BETHEL, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--When natural disasters hit and power is lost, Duracell PowerForward powers back communities by delivering free batteries where they are needed most. Right now, that’s in Puerto Rico. That’s why Duracell PowerForward is deploying to Puerto Rico to distribute more than $1 million worth of batteries, making this the program’s largest deployment since the initiative began in 2011.
“We at Duracell have been deeply moved by the resilience of those in Puerto Rico. Through our PowerForward initiative, a program I am most humbled and proud to be a part of, we will be distributing more than $1 million worth of batteries to local residents over the next month or more,” said Ramon Velutini, Vice President of Marketing at Duracell. “Trusted power is absolutely critical following widespread power outages caused by storms like Hurricane Maria, and we will be offering free Duracell batteries to help residents stay safe and connect with their loved ones by powering mobile devices, radios and flashlights, and providing trusted power for critical medical devices like dialysis machines, hearing aids and ventilators.”
At the time of release, 89% of the island of Puerto Rico is still without power according to Status.pr. The Duracell PowerForward team departed from Portsmouth International Airport at Pease in Portsmouth, New Hampshire at 7:00am ET on Thursday, October 12, and will be arriving in San Juan at 10:30am ET to distribute the most trusted batteries and offer free mobile charging. Duracell is working closely with the Red Cross and the office of the First Lady of Puerto Rico to determine the most in-need locations on the island. The Red Cross organization was on the ground to help load over 30 tons, or 60,000 pounds, for the Duracell PowerForward deployment beginning in San Juan on Thursday, October 12.
Natural disasters like hurricanes, tornados and floods are happening more frequently every year, causing power outages for millions of people. To assist those in need and to help communities recover, Duracell created the PowerForward program. Since 2011, Duracell PowerForward has been helping affected communities across the country by distributing free Duracell batteries, charging mobile devices, and providing internet access to those in need so they can connect with loved ones.
Storms and natural disasters are unpredictable, which is why Duracell encourages everyone to review the Duracell Emergency Checklist or visit www.Ready.gov. Emergency Preparedness can save lives.
Follow @Duracell on Twitter or Facebook for real time updates about the PowerForward truck location as part of the deployment in Puerto Rico.
About Duracell
Started in the 1920s, the Duracell brand and company was recently acquired by Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE-BRK.A, BRK.B) and has grown to be the leader in the single-use battery market in North America. The iconic Duracell brand is known the world over. Our products serve as the heart of devices that keep people connected, protect their families, entertain them, and simplify their increasingly mobile lifestyles. Our recharging technology allows consumers to live life without limits. Berkshire Hathaway Inc. is a $210B holding company owning subsidiaries that engage in diverse business activities. Visit www.duracell.com for more information; follow us on Twitter.com/Duracell and like us on Facebook.com/Duracell.