Ever try and call friends or family right after the ball drops? Doesn't it feel impossible to get through?

That is precisely why Sprint Nextel's network team has taken steps to bolster its wireless network, so that every customer that intends to send a New Year's cheer to a loved one gets through.

New Year's is one of the highest text-messaging days of the year. The wireless carrier expects that traffic volumes this year to be about 200 percent, double the normal rate.

Every year the company enhances its networks in areas like New York City and Las Vegas, where subscribers may be partying.

Sprint subscribers can indicate how they will be ringing in the New Year by texting a vote to 22331.

Here are the choices:

A) Sending a text message
B) Sending a picture message
C) Calling loved ones
D) Sending a video message showing how much fun you're having ringing in the New Year E) Using Nextel Direct Connect, a push-to-talk service, to communicate instantly with family, friends, and co-workers
F) Using Sprint 3G or 4G mobile broadband service to access your social network as the clock counts down to the New Year

It is free to participate in the Sprint poll.

The poll results will post on http://www.buzzaboutwireless.com the week of Jan 5.

The Buzz about Wireless site is Sprint's online community for wireless users. It features Sprint's announcements, product reviews, wallpapers of the day and the option to chat live with customer care.

Poll participants will receive the results in a free text message.

Sprint has invested approximately $15 billion to enhance its networks since 2006.

Holidays and large-scale events put additional load on wireless networks. Preparation is critical to ensure high-performing networks.

Sprint prepares for holidays, sponsorship events, such as NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races and the Super Bowl.

Additionally, the company conducts network preparations before, during and after natural disasters and political conventions and events.