OnStar and NEMA share preparedness tips to help boost positive outcomes before, during and after a disaster
DETROIT and LEXINGTON, Ky. – OnStar and the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) are working together during National Preparedness Month to foster a culture of preparedness to address disaster threats communities may face.
The United States dealt with 18 disaster events throughout 2022, resulting in losses exceeding $1 billion. In the first half of 2023, the U.S. has experienced an increase in flooding, hail, tornadoes, wildfires, historic rainfalls and more.
“After every disaster, NEMA and OnStar reflect on what went well and how to improve future disaster responses. Saving lives and creating resilient communities is the highest priority,” said Trina Sheets, executive director, NEMA. “Education and preparedness help create resilient communities, reduce deaths, economic loss, the impact of physical and mental health and general stress experienced by survivors in the long term. NEMA and OnStar bring together expertise, resources and technology that can significantly improve emergency communication, response, and public awareness. This collaboration can enhance the overall preparedness of communities and contribute to a safer and more resilient society and a ready nation.”
When a disaster strikes, OnStar and emergency management teams each play their part to apply resources and efforts to mitigate, prevent when possible, and respond to hazards that impact safety and security. In 2022, OnStar answered 847,000 emergency calls and supported 134 crisis events throughout the U.S.
How to Prepare for a Disaster
- Open the lines of communication – Sign up for the local community warning system and the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and follow OnStar on X for real-time updates.
- Create a plan – Create a family communications plan; and based on your location and community plans, make your own plans for evacuation or sheltering in place.
- Build an emergency kit – Gather enough supplies for multiple days, including water and snacks, a first aid kit, blankets, utility knife/multitool, electronic charging supplies, medications, and more.
- Safeguard important documents – Keep important documents in a fireproof/waterproof container and create password-protected digital copies.
- Familiarize yourself with OnStar – Push your OnStar button to reach an Advisor who can be your central point of contact, giving you vital information, including routing assistance and emergency aid.
About OnStar and Crisis Mode
“OnStar has a long history of working closely with local, state and federal safety agencies before, during and after crisis situations,” said Mitch Petterson, public safety engagement lead, OnStar. “OnStar Advisors are standing by with emergency services, ready to help you get to safety with just the push of the OnStar button.”
During a disaster, OnStar will:
- Coordinate emergency rescue and evacuation services
- Provide alternative routes
- Help with contacting loved ones
- Find available resources like food, water, fuel, shelter and hotel rooms
- Provide the most up-to-date information about the crisis
- Provide in-vehicle data connection for up to seven devices (data plans provided by AT&T)
All current, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac owners with properly equipped vehicles are eligible. Simply push the red Emergency button to speak with an Advisor.
Call for Action
To learn more about disaster preparedness, Mitch Petterson, OnStar’s public safety engagement lead, and Trina Sheets, NEMA’s executive director are available for interviews. An asset package is available with disaster preparedness infographics and relevant b-roll video.
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NEMA is the professional association of and for emergency management directors from all 50 states, eight territories and the District of Columbia. Established in 1974, NEMA is a primary source of information, support and expertise for emergency management professionals at all levels of government. Through regular Congressional testimony, strategic partnerships and proactive policy positions, the association provides national leadership on all emergency management issues. NEMA also administers the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), which is the nation’s interstate mutual aid system. EMAC allows states to share personnel, equipment and resources during disaster response and recovery.
