Woodfield Mall, a popular shopping center in the Chicagoland area was evacuated earlier today after an SUV was driven into one of the main entrances of the mall. A massive police presence arrived after a video was posted on social media of an SUV driving through the mall. No injuries have been reported but police are still evacuating the mall. The SUV entered through Sears until the vehicle eventually crashed into a Clarks. Schaumburg police and fire officials were at the scene, as were FBI officials and officials from the Cook County Sheriff’s office, who were assisting local officials.
Below are some safety tips for your consideration when visiting an area with large crowds.
BE READY
- Keep an eye out for potential emergency exits
- Take notice of bizarre behavior, untended objects, strange odors and vehicles traveling at abnormal speeds
- Determine a location to meet if you split up from your group
- Contact onsite security officers or law enforcement if you notice any suspect items
MOVE QUICKLY
- When an attack happens, go to the closest exit right away
- If you an unable to go to a secure area, keep yourself protected by taking cover behind any natural or artificial object that keeps you out of sight from the threat
- If you are incapable of evacuating, hide in a secure area where the access or entryways can either be blocked or locked
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).