Verizon’s network faced a major outage on Wednesday, but the company indicated it was fixed by 10:30 p.m. ET. Numerous users throughout the U.S. encountered their phones in SOS mode, permitting only emergency calls, while some attempts to contact 911 reportedly failed.

Regardless of the outage, 911 calls are expected to connect since they can utilize any mobile tower, ensuring users remain linked to emergency services. Nevertheless, several Verizon users stated they were unable to reach 911, and emergency services advised opting for alternative means of contact.

One user, @OmarMKAhmad, mentioned being unable to dial 911 during a fire due to Verizon’s difficulties, but luckily, someone with a different carrier managed to place the call.

The Office of Unified Communications (OUC) acknowledged the Verizon outage, cautioning that it impacted some 911 calls. They recommended utilizing another carrier, a landline, or going to a police or fire station if needed.

New York’s emergency notification system also commented on the situation, recommending alternative methods for reaching emergency services, like using LinkNYC kiosks or FDNY call boxes.