Press Releases August 14, 2026 09:00 AM

Rogers Turns on Free Rogers Satellite to all B.C. Wireless Customers During Wildfires

Rogers Launches Free Satellite Connectivity for B.C. Customers Amid Wildfires, Enhancing Emergency Communications

By Leila Farooq
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Rogers Communications has activated its satellite-to-mobile technology for all wireless customers in British Columbia to provide connectivity during the ongoing wildfires. This move enables communication even in areas without traditional cellular coverage, supporting residents and first responders. Additionally, Rogers is supporting wildfire relief efforts with matched donations and service credits for evacuated customers.

Rogers Turns on Free Rogers Satellite to all B.C. Wireless Customers During Wildfires
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Key Points

  • Rogers leverages its unique satellite-to-mobile technology to maintain connectivity during widespread wildfire disruptions in B.C.
  • The service enhances emergency communication capabilities for customers, including support for text-to-911 and popular messaging apps.
  • Rogers commits financial and service support to affected communities, including matching donations and crediting bills during evacuations.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 14, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rogers Communications today announced it has opened up Rogers Satellite province-wide for all Rogers wireless customers in British Columbia as wildfires continue to spread.

“We’re committed to helping British Columbians affected by these devastating wildfires,” said Tony Staffieri, President and CEO, Rogers. “Our teams are working around the clock to help keep people connected. As the only Canadian carrier with satellite-to-mobile technology, with this pilot Rogers is providing an added layer of connectivity where it’s needed - helping families reach loved ones and first responders stay connected on the job.”

Rogers Satellite provides connectivity where traditional cell coverage is not available. The service can keep customers connected if a cellular tower is down because of damage from a wildfire or hydro outage, and in areas outside of the reach of towers such as remote highways. Rogers is opening up the service in British Columbia for all Rogers wireless customers, including businesses and government, to pilot how satellite-to-mobile technology enhances safety and is used by residents and communities during emergencies and natural disasters.

In addition to text messaging and text-to-911, Rogers Satellite supports satellite-ready apps such as WhatsApp, Messenger and Google Maps on compatible devices.

To build on our efforts to keep customers connected, Rogers is matching new donations to the Canadian Red Cross 2026 British Columbia Wildfires Appeal up to $100,000. The company has launched text-to-donate, making it easy for Canadians to donate $5 through their phones, by texting ROGERS to 20222 (FR: 30333).

Rogers is also supporting customers who have been evacuated from their homes by automatically crediting Rogers internet, TV and home phone services for the duration of the evacuation period.

Rogers Satellite is available outside, including on bodies of water, where you can see the sky. For coverage areas, see coverage map.

The technology works on most modern smartphones and is being rolled out to all existing Rogers wireless customers in B.C. today. The pilot will run during the B.C. government’s state of provincial emergency.

About Rogers Communications Inc
Rogers is Canada’s communications, sports and entertainment company and its shares are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RCI). For more information, please visit rogers.com or about.rogers.com/investor-relations.

For more information:
Rogers Communications,
[email protected],
1-844-226-1338


Risks

  • Satellite service effectiveness may be limited by extreme weather conditions or device compatibility, potentially impacting connectivity reliability during emergencies.
  • Operational and financial impacts from prolonged wildfire situations may strain company resources and infrastructure.
  • Uncertainty regarding the duration and scale of the wildfire emergency could affect the cost and logistics of maintaining the pilot and related customer support programs.

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