The City of Chicago and the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) are closely monitoring the impending Grand Jury decision regarding the Breonna Taylor case in Louisville, KY. In anticipation of the decision, which is expected to be announced within the next 36 hours, the OEMC plans to activate their Emergency Operations Center (EOC). While there is no specific date or hours of the activation at this time, the EOC is estimated to be activated for at least 48 hours, subject to change based on operational need.
The activation is only a precautionary move at this point. There are no specific threats in Chicago or large-scale protests/demonstrations currently scheduled, however spontaneous or short-notice demonstrations are possible, and the situation is fluid. The City of Chicago is deploying assets to the Loop and commercial corridors per the neighborhood protection plan. There will also be additional police, salt trucks. etc. staged at multiple locations throughout the city. Lastly, there is no intention for a citywide curfew and no street closures at the moment.
Below are safety tips and additional resources for you to consider regarding building security preparedness and best practices for civil unrest/protests.
Safety Tips:
- If you see something suspicious, report it
- Carry water and stay hydrated
- Choose a landmark to meet at in case you are separated from your group
- Utilize the buddy system
- Remain alert and be observant of surroundings
- Leave any valuables at home
- Do not jump any barricades
- Secure handbags and wallets
- Stay calm and pleasant
- Follow your own instincts
- Leave yourself room to move quickly
- If you see an unattended bag, alert police as quickly as possible
Additional Resources:
- BOMA/Chicago Security Channel – Join
- Demonstration Building Security Preparedness Checklist – Click Here
- BOMA/Chicago Best Practices Guide for Civil Unrest/Disturbances/Protests – Click Here
As always, if you “See Something, Say Something.” For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).