With Tropical Storm Isaac approaching landfall in the Southeastern United States, and with the threat of its being upgraded to hurricane status, GM is reminding its OnStar subscribers (and those driving OnStar-equipped rental cars) of the system's Crisis Assist services.
"Most people who live in coastal areas know the importance of preparing themselves for a natural disaster, however these locations are also hotspots for many travelers and emergency preparedness may not be top of mind for them," Mary Ann Adams, OnStar's crisis incident manager, said in a statement. "That's why we're trying to spread the word to prepare travelers and residents alike for upcoming storms."
The vehicle safety and information system reminds users of the red emergency or blue button that can connect them at any time to a live advisor. Among the services advisors can provide:
- Emergency services: Advisors can contact emergency responders and direct them to the exact location of a subscriber in need, thanks to OnStar's embedded cellular system and Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite technology.
- Routing assistance: Advisors can direct users to alternate routes, evacuation routes, and give directions to hospitals, hotels, and shelters
- Central point of contact for assistance: Advisors can serve as a central point of contact as subscribers seek weather updates, help reporting power outages or road closures, or accommodation.
- Keeping subscribers connected: If subscribers are without power and cannot recharge their cell phones, or if they are having trouble getting cellular service, they can use OnStar Hands-Free Calling for their communication needs.
- Reporting new incidents: OnStar encourages subscribers to help out by contacting an advisor if they witness danger or people in need, so that OnStar can alert the proper authorities.
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