As Isaac Targets Travel Hotspots, OnStar’s Prepared to Help
GM Media
8/27/2012
Hurricane Isaac
DETROIT – As Tropical Storm Isaac approaches the southeastern coast of the United States and threatens to reach Hurricane status, all OnStar subscribers and travelers driving OnStar-equipped rental vehicles are reminded to use the company’s Crisis Assist services if severe weather strikes.
As of Monday morning, Tropical Storm Isaac was located less than 200 miles east of Fort Myers, Fla. Hurricane watches and warnings are in effect from Southern Florida to Louisiana, as Isaac is expected to strengthen to a Category 1 hurricane by Tuesday.
Residents and those traveling in the affected area should take measures to prepare themselves for a potential disaster. Specifically, plan evacuation routes, identify levees or dams in the area and assemble an emergency kit with first aid materials, flashlights and extra cash. For more tips see OnStar’s Hurricane Preparation Checklist.
“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,” said Mary Ann Adams, OnStar Crisis Incident manager. “That’s why we’re trying to spread the word to prepare travelers and residents alike for upcoming storms.”
OnStar has nearly 300,000 active subscribers in Florida, all of whom have access to the company’s Crisis Assist services via OnStar’s red emergency or blue button to connect with a live Advisor. Once connected, OnStar Advisors can provide subscribers with:
- Emergency services: Advisors can connect and direct emergency responders to the exact location of a subscriber in need using OnStar’s embedded cellular system and Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite technology.
- Routing assistance: Advisors can provide alternate routes, evacuation routes, and directions to hospitals, hotels or shelters
- Central point of contact for assistance: Advisors can provide crisis information and centralized assistance when subscribers need, for example, weather updates, hotel accommodations or help reporting power outages or road closures.
- Keeping subscribers connected: Subscribers without power in their homes and unable to recharge their cell phone or are having trouble getting cellular service can use OnStar Hands-Free Calling to stay connected and reach loved ones.
- Reporting new incidents: OnStar encourages subscribers to be Good Samaritans and contact an Advisor when they witness a dangerous situation or someone with an emergency need, so an Advisor can inform public safety officials.
OnStar has relationships with more than 6,000 9-1-1 Call Centers, allowing Advisors to assist in getting quick, localized assistance in any type of emergency situation. For more information on OnStar Crisis Assist, visit www.onstar.com.
