The operators were not given any information about the inability to conduct rooftop rescues and therefore could not advise callers that they had essentially been ruled out.
Some operators were advising callers to evacuate if they could.
An automatic voice message was left in place for 12 months advising callers of the customer's new prefix.
Mr. Bellhouse advises callers making operator-assisted calls to ask the carrier's rates.
She said the bureau used the D.E.P. prediction as a guide when advising callers.
The Department of Agriculture can advise callers to its hot line about grilling and smoking a turkey.
In the event of problems, the main DTI Inquiry Unit is 071-215 5000, and they will be able to advise callers of the new numbers.
Currently, airline reservation agents often advise callers that unless they buy the ticket immediately, the fare is not guaranteed.
Improvising as they learned information from callers, some operators advised callers that they could break windows.
It advises errant callers: "Mario Cuomo is a waste of time."