Detroit, March 1, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the National Weather Service (NWS), over the past 24-36 hoursnine states have experienced severe weather with tornadoes reported in six states including Neb., Kan., Mo., Ill., Ky. and Ind. Damages and injuries have been reported. With more tornado outbreaks expected throughout the evening and early morning several states are bracing for potential impact.
See video from OnStar at: http://inr.synapticdigital.com/onstar/severeweather/
For those affected by the recent storms and tornados who also subscribe to OnStar, a simple push of the red emergency button in their vehicle will put them in contact with specially trained Crisis Advisors, who can help:
• Emergency Services: Advisors can contact emergency responders if needed and direct them to the subscriber's exact vehicle location, using OnStar's embedded cellular system and Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite technology. OnStar Advisors can also assist subscribers in finding shelter.
• Central point of contact for assistance: Advisors can provide crisis information and centralized assistance when subscribers need, for example, weather updates, hotel accommodations, help reporting power outages, or routing assistance.
• Keeping subscribers connected: Subscribers who are without power in their homes or cannot recharge cell phone batteries can push the OnStar blue button to stay connected.
• Reporting new incidents: OnStar encourages subscribers to be Good Samaritans and contact an Advisor whenever they witness someone with an emergency need, so that the Advisor can inform appropriate public safety officials.
"Preparation is the best defense in any kind of crisis," said Joanne Finnorn, vice president, OnStar Subscriber Services. "We just want people to remember that OnStar can assist in these trying times in ways they may not expect, even in the event that other communications are unavailable. OnStar is available round the clock to support its subscribers in need."
OnStar continues to offer its full range of services, including navigation and hands-free calling, for subscribers who are affected daily by crisis events at no extra cost, regardless of their subscription plan. For more information on OnStar Crisis Assist, visit www.onstar.com.
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OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the global leading provider of connected safety, security and mobility solutions and advanced information technology. With more than 6 million subscribers in the U.S, Canada and China, OnStar is currently available on more than 45 MY 2012 GM models, as well as available for installation on most other vehicles already on the road with OnStar FMV. More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com.