Archive for Chicago

Safety Tips for Cold Weather

January is a month when temperatures plunge which is why you need to prepare for the severe weather conditions ahead. Along with being careful of traveling and staying warm, consider reducing outdoor activities during the extreme cold, especially activities involving the elderly and very young.

Traveling when Cold Out

Colder temperatures produce dangerous conditions when ice surfaces on places such as sidewalks and roadways. That is why it is important to be especially careful and alert to prevent accidents from occurring.

By Car

  • When driving in icy conditions, be careful about speeds and keep a safe distance between other vehicles.
  • Take extra precautions of your surroundings, especially after dark, when there is bad weather, and around school zones.
  • Prepare a cold-weather kit in your car and include items such as food, water, warm clothing, a flashlight, a windshield scraper, blankets, road salt, etc.
  • If taking a long trip, notify others and let them know your route, destination and estimated time of arrival.
  • If possible, it is best to avoid driving all-together when weather conditions are dangerous.

Walking Outside

  • Be careful and cautious about overhanging icicles, especially when walking in in a metropolitan area.
  • Wear snow boots when ice is present outside as leather soles are more at risk of slipping.
  • Take shorter steps when walking through slippery icy conditions to reduce the risk of falling.
  • Avoid putting your hands in pockets to help in a situation when you lose your balance or fall.  

Staying Warm in the Freezing Cold

One of the most important ways to avoid the dangers of cold weather conditions is by planning ahead.

Dress Warm

  • Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing along with a heavy winter coat.
  • Wear a winter hat that covers your ears.
  • If possible, cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
  • Have some sort of covering for your hand, like gloves or mittens.

Frostbite

Frostbite is the most common injury from cold weather and is the result of exposure of skin to the conditions. The injury reduces feeling in your skin and affects the fingers, toes, ears, nose, and cheeks. Pay attention to any sign that may signal frostbite, such as:

  • Numbness
  • Skin that has an odd firmness
  • Bright white or grayish-yellow skin
  • If a pain in your skin or redness occurs, return indoors, as frostbite may be beginning.

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).

Protest Activity – Friday, April 1, 2016

The following activities are tentatively planned for Friday, April 1, 2016 in regards to the Chicago Teachers Union.

CTU has called for a “Day of Action” and is encouraging the public to “Shut it Down” by:
  • Withholding their labor and their dollars
  • Boycotting the Magnificent Mile
  • Protesting Governor Rauner, Mayor Emanuel and billionaire Ken Griffin
  • Protesting banks such as Bank of America
  • Demanding progressive taxation
  • Demanding the release of the TIF surplus

Tentative Schedule of Events
6:30am – 9:00am – School Picketing
10:00am – 1:30pm – Teach-In at Northeastern University (5500 N Saint Louis Ave, Chicago)
10:00am – 12:00pm – Teach-In at Chicago State University (9501 S King Drive, Chicago)
12:00pm – Chicago State University Rally for Higher Education
2:00pm – 3:30pm – University of Illinois at Chicago rally
2:00pm – 4:00pm – Project NIA Close Youth Prisons march – to take place in the Central Business District
4:00pm – Rally at the Thompson Center.
Post-Rally at Thompson Center – Protesters are scheduled to march but the path is currently unclear.

Map of Planned Events
The following is a map of the planned events throughout the day:

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=zyt_WzGbtLWs.kpwioHK9mKW8

 

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).
Demonstration Building Security Preparedness Checklist – Click Here
BOMA/Chicago Best Practices Guide for Civil Unrest/Disturbances/Protests – Click Here

Chicago’s 2016 St. Patrick’s Day Festivities

Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day Festivities

Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities will take place this Saturday, March 12th starting at 9:00am.  These festivities include dyeing the Chicago river green as well as a parade.

In 2016 the river will be turning green on Saturday March 12, starting at 9:00 A.M. The best place to view this year will be between Columbus and Wabash.

The 2016 parade starts at 12:00pm at Balbo and Columbus with the parade units proceeding north on Columbus Drive. The parade ends at Monroe and Columbus.

For more information on the parade and river dyeing visit http://www.chicagostpatsparade.com/.

South Side Irish Parade

The 2016 South Side Irish Parade will be March 13th, 2016. The parade will step off at noon from 103rd and proceed down Western Avenue to 115th Street.  For more information on the parade visit http://www.southsideirishparade.org/event-info/.

Tips

Remember these tips to have a safe celebration.

  • Don’t bring valuables with you to your celebration
  • Be aware of your surroundings and locate where you can go for help if necessary
  • If you plan on drinking, do not drive
  • Be extra cautious on the roads if you are driving this weekend
  • 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
  • Remain alert and be observant of surroundings

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).

Possible Protest Activity & Street Closures – April 29, 2015 – May 2, 2015

The following information as been provided by City of Chicago:

Possible Protest Activity – Wednesday, April 29th

There may be protest activity stemming from the south side of the river into the 18th Disrict near Michigan Avenue later today.  This unconfirmed march is in response to black lives matter and against police brutality.

NFL Draft Activity: Thursday, April 30th  – Sunday, May 3rd

With the NFL Draft activities being held April 30th to May 2nd , large crowds are to be expected downtown.  Buildings around the area are advised that in the event of inclement weather, they may see a large influx of people seeking refuge.  Management and security staff should be aware of this possibility and have necessary personnel and polices in place.

There are no known threats regarding the NFL Draft weekend, however, CPD does expect various protest groups to use the visibility of the event to demonstrate.

Polish Constitution Day Parade – Saturday, May 2nd

The Polish Constitution Day Parade will take place on Saturday, May 2nd from  9 a.m.  to the mid-afternoon.  The parade will be on Dearborn Street which will be closed between Wacker Drive and Van Buren Street.

For more information on the NFL Draft street closures, please click here.

2015 NFL Draft

Chicago is the host city for the 2015 NFL draft.  The draft events take place Thursday, April 30th through Saturday, May 2nd at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.  The following is information on street closures during that time frame:

Thursday, April 22nd at 6:00am through Friday, May 8th
Congress Parkway to be closed between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive

Monday, April 27th at 6:00am through Monday, May 4th
Columbus Drive to be closed between Balboa Drive and Jackson Boulevard

Thursday, April 30th, 3:00pm – 8:00pm
Michigan Avenue to be closed between Jackson Boulevard and Harrison Street
Congress Parkway to be closed between Michigan Avenue and State Street
Wabash Street to be closed between Jackson Boulevard and Harrison Street

Friday, May 1st, 3:00pm – 8:00pm
Michigan Avenue to be closed between Jackson Boulevard and Harrison Street
Congress Parkway to be closed between Michigan Avenue and State Street
Wabash Street to be closed between Jackson Boulevard and Harrison Street

Saturday, May 2nd, 9:00am – Mid-afternoon
Polish Constitution Day Parade
Dearborn Street to be closed between Wacker Drive and Van Buren Street

Street closings for the NFL Draft for Saturday, May 2nd are currently T.B.D.

In addition to full road closures, lane reductions or temporary sidewalk closures may be implemented to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians.

Please note that the Chicago Police Department is anticipating for smaller protest groups to be present during the events.

For more information on the 2015 NFL Draft, click here.

Chicagoland Extreme Cold Preparation

Prepare now — the Chicagoland area will experience extreme cold this weekend.

  • Consider winterizing your home or unit:
    • Ensure doors and windows are properly sealed
    • Insulate pipes to prevent them from freezing
    • Clear rain gutters, if needed
  • Check and clean heating units to confirm they are in working order
  • Install and/or test fire and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Do not use a space heater within 3 feet of anything that can catch on fire or left unattended with a child
  • If going outside, wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing including:
    • a hat
    • a scarf or knit mask to cover face and mouth
    • sleeves that are snug at the wrist
    • mittens (they are warmer than gloves)
    • water-resistant coat and shoes
    • several layers of loose-fitting clothing
  • Stay dry since wet clothing loses all of its insulation
  • Walk carefully on icy, snowy sidewalks
  • Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow
  • Watch for signs of frostbite which include white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels firm or waxy and numbness
  • Watch for signs of hypothermia which include uncontrollable shivering and memory loss

FERGUSON, M.O. SOLIDARITY EVENTS PLANNED NATIONWIDE

The following is information that has been provided by BOMA/Chicago:

At some time during the week of November 17th, a St. Louis County grand jury is expected to release its decision over the indictment of officer Darren Wilson who shot and killed unarmed 18-year-old Michael Brown on August 9.

Since the time of the shooting, Ferguson, Missouri has been experienced near-daily protests focusing on Ferguson police, the county and state authorities. Protests and demonstrations have also been experienced in other cities.

With the indictment decision expected, police in many cities are looking to contain possible unrest should the grand jury decide not to indict the officer. Cities across the nation, including Chicago, are preparing for the possibility of more disruptive activity should the Ferguson officer escape an indictment.

Groups and individuals across the country are preparing for the grand jury announcement.  There are several groups that are using social media to organize and coordinate protest activity.  Nationwide, there are planned assemblies being coordinated for the day of and / or the day after the announcement.  While the assemblies are intended as peaceful events, the possibility of heightened tensions and unplanned violence are always possible at any large gathering – by participants, counter-protesters or disruptive elements that may infiltrate peaceful protests to conduct malicious acts.

Amid the already existing tensions, the Missouri chapter of the KKK has reportedly handed out fliers threatening to use “lethal force” against protestors.  In response, the hacktavist group Anonymous has taken control of @KuKluxKlanUSA – a prominent KKK Twitter account. Additionally, individuals identifying with the group are conducting a doxing campaign against individuals believed to be affiliated with the group – releasing addresses, phone numbers, addresses and other personal information. It is possible that as tensions and potential confrontations increase, there could be an escalation of physical and cyber hostilities.  Members are encouraged to be aware of events in their areas of operation.

Expected Chicago Protest Activity

A consortium of groups have announced that protest and demonstrations will take place in Chicago at State and Jackson at5:00 pm on the day of the announcement, or immediately if the announcement is made on the weekend; and at 6:30 pm at the Chicago Police Department Headquarters on the day of the announcement.

Wallenda Skyscraper Walk

Below is the timeline of closures and activities for the Nik Wallenda Skyscraper walk.

Friday, October 31st
Lighting Rehearsal – 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Saturday, November 1st
Production Rehearsal – 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Sunday, November 2nd
5:00pm – 9:00pm

  • Street Closures
    • Hard Closures
      • Wacker Drive: State to Dearborn
      •  State Street Bridge
      • Dearborn Street Bridge
    • Soft Closures
      • State Street: Kinzie to the Bridge
        • Local Vehicle & Pedestrian Access to Marina City & Parking Garage
      • State Street: Lake to Wacker
        • Local Vehicle & Pedestrian Access to Renaissance Hotel
      • Dearborn: Kinzie to the Bridge
        • Local Pedestrian Access to House of Blues
      • Dearborn: Lake to Wacker
        • Local Pedestrian Access to Catch 3S
  • River Closures
    • State to Dearborn – 6:00pm – 8:00pm
  • Production Staging
    • East Side of Dearborn: Bridge to Kinzie (curblane & sldwalk)
    • North Side of Wacker: State to Wabash (curblane & sidewalk)
    • East Side of Clark: Bridge north for %block (MUSCO LIGHT; curb + 1 traffic lane)
    • North Side of Wacker: Wabash to Michigan (MUSCO LIGHT In trolley bus lane)
  • Public Viewing
    • Wacker Drive: Clark to Dearborn
    • Wacker Drive: Wabash to State
  • Marina City Plaza
    • Resident & Facilities Access Only (restricted)
    • 5:30pm – 8:30pm
      • Parking Garage Valet located to State St (Tortoise Club)
      • No cars in from State; Exit only on State to Kinzie
    • 7:00pm – 8:30pm
      • Clear all pedestrians from plaza
      • House of Blues/Dicks Last Resort access from Dearborn
      • No cars exit from Dearborn

 

Boat and Beach Safety

The following information has been provided by the Office of Alderman Brendan Reilly.

Boat Safety Tips for Lake Michigan and the Chicago River

As we head into the much anticipated summer season, officials from the City’s public safety departments, U.S. Coast Guard and boating and water safety industry associations emphasize safe boating practices.

Boating and water recreation safety on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River is a priority of the City of Chicago and the Coast Guard. According to Coast Guard statistics, 560 boaters died on our nation’s waterways in 2013. 78 of those deaths occurred in the Great Lakes region. Among those nationwide, 77% of fatal boating accident victims drowned and of those who drowned, 84% were not wearing a life jacket. Small recreational vessels, including paddle craft, are the most vulnerable. Eight of every 10 boaters who drowned were using boats less than 21 feet in length.

In addition, alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents–it’s responsible for 16 percent of boater deaths and vessel collisions are the most frequent accident type.

Whether it is extreme hot temperatures, rain, thunderstorms or high winds, weather affect one’s ability to safely maneuver on the water. OEMC encourages the public to learn more about the safety tips offered by the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary. These tips can save lives and prevent water accidents and emergencies.

Area boaters are urged to follow these principles to ensure a safe summer season on the water:

Stay Afloat – Life jackets save lives.

According to Coast Guard studies, 84 percent of drowning victims were not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD). Of the remaining 16 percent, many were either wearing a model that was not designed to keep their head out of the water after the wearer lost consciousness or not wearing a life jacket at all.

While there are many factors that can contribute to boating accidents, a properly fitting life jacket can save a life even after an accident has occurred.

 Stay Prepared and Informed – FREE Vessel Safety Checks and Boat Safety Courses from the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

According to a Coast Guard study, of the 560 fatalities in 2013, only 13 percent involved an operator who received boating safety instruction from courses meeting the U.S. Coast Guard recognized national standards.

The Coast Guard recommends that all recreational boaters (including personal watercraft users) take advantage of the free vessel safety check program every year. VSCs are offered by experienced members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the U.S. Power Squadrons, two of the nation’s premier volunteer boating safety organizations. A VSC is the best possible way to learn about potential violations of state and federal requirements. But more importantly, these quick exams can keep your boat and passengers out of harm’s way. Request a VSC here.

The boating safety courses cover many topics to provide a foundation of operational and safety instruction. The courtesy examinations can uncover safety deficiencies that can be remedied prior to leaving the dock. Visit www.uscgboating.org to learn more about Vessel Safety Checks or to find a certified examiner near you.

Stay Alert – Don’t Boat Under the Influence.

Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents-it’s responsible for 16 percent of boater deaths. Alcohol is even more hazardous on the water than on land. The marine environment – motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind and spray – accelerates a drinker’s impairment. These stressors cause fatigue that makes a boat operator’s coordination, judgment and reaction time decline even faster when using alcohol than consuming alcohol on land.

Stay in Touch – Have the Right Type of Communication Device.

Cell phone coverage is often spotty, so having a reliable VHF-FM marine radio on-hand is recommended for communications during times of distress. Consider purchasing a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) if you boat alone = or offshore. When activated, these devises can be used by responders to identify the location of distressed boaters.

Other safety tips for boat operators, passengers and swimmers include:

  • Know the weather and water conditions before boating or swimming
  • Never swim alone and always swim near life guards
  • Always wear a lifejacket. Don’t just store it. Putting a life jacket on is much harder once you’re in the water-especially if you’re injured
  • Check local rip current forecasts, and never swim in rough water
  • Be aware of carbon monoxide hazards in and around a boat, and maintain a continuous flow of fresh air
  • File a float plan; give the information to a friend or relative who can call for help if you do not return as scheduled.
  • Maintain a clear unobstructed view forward at all times. Most boating collisions are caused by obstruction or distraction.
  • Observe the nautical rules of the water, including speed limits
  • Learn C.P.R. and first aid
  • Ensure children are always supervised and wearing a life jacket
  • Stop the engine when boarding or exiting the boat

Chicago Beach Rules

  • Follow lifeguards’ instructions – they are there to keep you safe!
  • Only Coast Guard approved flotation devices are permitted.
  • No smoking.
  • No alcohol.
  • No glass containers – broken glass in the sand can cause serious injuries.
  • Dogs are not allowed on the beach except in designated dog friendly areas at Foster Beach and Montrose Beach.
  • Do not feed birds or wildlife.  Seagulls and geese are one of the largest sources of the bacteria that causes swim advisories.  Feeding gulls attracts them to the beach.
  • Dispose of trash and recycling in appropriate containers. Trash attracts gulls to the beach, which can cause swim advisories.
  • Grill in designated areas only and dispose of coals in red barrels.  Please do not dump coals next to trees, where they can damage tree roots.
  • Keep accessible beach walks clear. No bicycling, skateboarding or rollerblading is permitted in these areas.
  • Surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding are only allowed in designated areas.
  • Visit the National Weather Service’s website to learn about rip tides.

Fire Safety

Next week the American Society of Industrial Security (ASIS) will be hosting a seminar in Chicago regarding security practices in a high rise environment.  In the City of Chicago, fire safety is a concern for high rise residential buildings.

The City of Chicago’s fire department receives approximately 500,000 calls annually.  The key to fire safety begins with fire prevention. Here are some tips for fire prevention from the Chicago Fire Department:

  • Install smoke detectors
  • Provide approved fire extinguishers
  • Keep exit signs illuminated
  • Do not block or prop open fire doors
  • Repair self closing devices on doors
  • Maintain continuous means of egress
  • Do not store hazardous materials
  • Repair or replace any defective fire pumps
  • Do not paint sprinkler heads
  • Provide handrails in stairwells
  • Remove all rubbish from your property
  • Repair any damages in walls
  • Ensure all fire doors are in good operating conditions

Chicago’s 2014 St. Patrick’s Day Festivities

Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities will take place this Saturday, March 15th starting at 9:30am.  These festivities includes dyeing Chicago river green as well as a parade.

In 2014 the river will be turning green on Saturday March 15, starting at 9:30 A.M. The best place to view this year will be between Columbus and Wabash.  Visit http://greenchicagoriver.com/ for further information.

The 2014 parade starts at 12:00pm at Balbo and Columbus and ends at Monroe and Columbus.  For more information on the parade visit http://www.chicagostpatsparade.com/.

Parade Route

Street closures for the parade will begin at 7:30am and end around 2:30pm.  These include:

  • Columbus Drive from Roosevelt to Balbo
  • Balbo between Michigan and LSD
  • Monroe from Columbus to LSD
  • Columbus from Randolph to Roosevelt
  • Jackson from Columbus to LSD
  • Congress from Michigan to Columbus

Remember these tips to have a safe celebration.

  • Don’t bring valuables with you to your celebration
  • Be aware of your surroundings and locate where you can go for help if necessary
  • If you plan on drinking, do not drive
  • Be extra cautious on the roads if you are driving this weekend

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