Wha-Wha-what?!?!?!?! I’m really excited to get Verizon’s FIOS service some day, but I don’t want to give up my cooper…. this is a big story if it’s true.

• (AP) Verizon Communications is getting some complaints as it switches consumers to its FiOS fiber-optic service. Consumers say they weren’t properly informed that installation of FiOS includes cutting the old copper wire system into the home.

  Verizon’s new high-bandwidth fiber lines are fully capable of carrying not only calls but also Internet data and television with room to grow. But once the copper is pulled, it’s difficult to switch back to the traditional phone system or less expensive Digital Subscriber Line service. And Verizon isn’t required, in most instances, to lease fiber to rival phone companies, as it is with the copper infrastructure.

  Unlike copper-connected phone service, FiOS doesn’t work during power outages once a backup battery goes out – not even for emergency calls. Home-alarms and certain other devices work best with copper.

  Verizon spokesman Eric Rabe says customers should have been notified at least three times – but consumers say it’s hidden in the fine print.

  While A-T-and-T and Qwest are also retiring their copper networks, they’re not touching the so-called “last mile” of copper wiring that runs from each customer’s dwelling to the central office where other lines aggregate.