OnStar services help: Crisis Assist

OnStar services help: Crisis Assist

What services does OnStar offer in an emergency?

In an emergency, pushing the red Emergency button connects you to a specially trained OnStar Advisor who can notify first responders. Before help arrives, Advisors are certified to provide Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) assistance for situations such as shortness of breath, cuts, concussions, childbirth and other emergencies.

 

You can use Emergency Services to help others on the road too. If you witness a crash or see a stranded vehicle or a downed power line, you can become a Good Samaritan by pushing the red Emergency button. A specially trained Advisor can use GPS technology and the information you provide to rush whatever assistance may be needed. Emergency services are only available to Members with a paid plan.  

What is Crisis Assist?

In severe weather conditions or a crisis, our Advisors provide a fast, knowledgeable resource if you need emergency assistance, help finding a route, or other services. They can also contact family members for you.

What types of crises can OnStar assist with?

  • Severe Weather: Thunderstorms, tornados, flooding, hurricanes or winter weather
  • Natural Resource/Man-Made Disasters: Energy/power outages, hazardous material situations or terrorist activity
  • Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis, wildfires or volcanic eruptions

How do I access Emergency Services?

There are two ways to access Emergency Services 24/7:

  • Push your vehicle’s red Emergency button
  • Call OnStar (1.888.4ONSTAR) 1.888.466.7827 to reach an Advisor in an emergency

When should I push the red Emergency button?

  • To request police, fire or medical help
  • To report an accident
  • To request help for others on the road

What do I do if I’m in a crash?

If you're in a crash, built-in sensors can automatically alert an OnStar Advisor and predict the likelihood of a serious injury. An Advisor is immediately connected into your vehicle to see if you need help, even if you can't ask for it. You don't have to do a thing.  

What if I don’t know where I am?

Don’t worry — we can still pinpoint your location and send help. When you push the red Emergency button, your OnStar Advisor can use GPS technology to locate your vehicle.  

What if I am unable to ask for help?

An OnStar Advisor can dispatch help to your location, even if you’re unable to ask for it yourself.

What is a Good Samaritan?

It’s someone who pushes the red Emergency button to help someone else when they see an emergency on the road. An Advisor can use GPS technology and the information you provide to locate the emergency and contact the nearest emergency service provider.

Does pushing the red Emergency button call 911?

No. Pushing the button connects you to a specially trained OnStar Advisor who is certified to provide EMD assistance. They will also contact emergency service providers like dialing 911 would. These EMD-certified OnStar Emergency Advisors can pinpoint your location and offer critical assistance until help arrives.  

How can I effectively prepare for a disaster?

For more information about how to prepare for a crisis, check out our Crisis Preparedness page.

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