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OnStar Helps Handle Hurricane Harvey Emergencies From Detroit, Michigan: Video

The worst of Hurricane Harvey seems to be over, but the number of people in need of assistance continues to grow. General Motors OnStar has been an instrumental factor in ensuring those with the service receive the help they need.

Local news affiliate FOX 2 went inside the Detroit operation to see how OnStar has made an impact on Hurricane Harvey victims, and the results are staggering. At the time of the report, 1,700 emergency requests had been made to OnStar by pushing the red “SOS” button on the vehicle’s mirror. Mary Ann Adams, a crisis response manager, said the team is able to push customers through to 911 and contact emergency services even if victims don’t have cellular service.

She described one caller who was trapped in their garage as Hurricane Harvey made landfall as a category four storm. The victim was unable to get out and couldn’t use their cell phone. OnStar routed the call to 911 and they were rescued.

Not only has OnStar been helping its customers, but the crisis response team can also take overflow phone calls coming for the American Red Cross.

And even those who aren’t in serious danger have found assistance with OnStar. The service has helped many find local shelters, book hotel rooms and keep people out of harm’s way by providing information during the natural disaster.

Former GM Authority staff writer.

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