City of Chicago officials, including the Mayor’s Office and the Chicago Police Department, provided written and verbal briefings this week on measures being taken to enhance safety and security through the extended holiday weekend.
Specific Measures
- The Chicago Police Department (CPD) has confirmed that they will be assigning extra uniformed and plain-clothes officers to the Central Business District through the extended Thanksgiving weekend.
- Public works assets, such as Streets & Sanitation salt trucks, will also be prepositioned in and around the Loop and in other retail corridors.
- Additional technology may also be deployed to monitor persons/vehicles traveling into and out of the area.
- Multiple cities have experienced organized theft rings targeting high-end retail stores in recent days.
- City departments have run frequent drills in 2021 utilizing such assets to deter opportunistic criminality or civil unrest.
- Special events will include the Christkindlmart in Daley Plaza and the Thanksgiving Day Parade along State Street.
- The verdict in the Ahmaud Arbery murder trial in Georgia may be imminent, and has factored into the City’s planning.
- A related demonstration is anticipated at Federal Plaza (230 S Dearborn) on the evening of any verdict announcement.
- An additional, visible security presence facing the public way is encouraged by CPD.
- Increased situational awareness for all Loop residents and employees is highly encouraged.
- Emergencies should result in a call to 911, situational communication may utilize the BOMA Slack channel or 311.
Safety Tips During or Near Protest Activity
- 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
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).