Uncle Sam wants you to know that when the dreaded Y2K bug finally bites, everything will be just fine.
Earlier this year, the President’s Council on Year 2000 Conversion began to operate a Y2K hot line to dispense information, answer questions and calm millennium jitters.
“We wouldn’t presume to tell people what to think,” says John Koskinen, chairman of the council. “Our goal is simply to provide the information. If you’ve already made up your mind about this, you probably won’t be calling the hot line.”
The toll-free number is 1-888-USA-4-Y2K. You’ll get eight options to hear recorded messages about subjects such as computers, airlines and the food supply.
It may not surprise you to hear that most of the news is cheery: There should be no interruption in government benefits. Banks are working hard to ward off problems, as are airlines and public utilities. Your computer manufacturer can help you solve any glitches in your hardware.
There also are suggestions for seeking advice on-line, starting with the President’s Council Web site at www.y2k.gov/
The most sobering notes center on food supplies and the big turn-of-the-century weekend (1999 ends on a Friday night).
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“While we believe there will be no major national disruptions,” the message says, “you need to be aware that anything from inclement weather to Y2K failures could temporarily disrupt services at any time. Personal preparedness for the year 2000 transition is no different from how one should normally be prepared for the usual winter storm.”