Contact:
 From:
  Crime Prevention Officer
Robyn Nielsen
630-293-2222
rnielsen@westchicago.org		 West Chicago Police Department
325 Spencer Street
West Chicago, IL 60185

Illinois Premise Alert Program to Assist First Responders
January 19, 2010 - On August 28, 2009, Governor Quinn signed into effect the Illinois Premise Alert Program (PAP) Act. This new state-wide program is aimed at providing first responders with vital information for people with special needs. The act defines special needs individuals as “individuals who have or are at increased risk for a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition and who also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that required by individuals generally.” Some examples would be, but are not limited to, deafness, blindness, autism, mobility issues, paralyzed individuals, etc.

First responders who have this information will be able to more effectively handle situations involving these special needs individuals. If an officer knows they are responding to the home of an autistic person, they will know in advance to speak softly and move slowly around that person. If the fire department is responding to the home of a paralyzed subject, they can prepare themselves for a more complicated rescue.

Participating in the program is simple. If you are a parent, guardian, family member or caregiver of a special needs individual who would require extra assistance or treatment during an emergency, you can complete a PAP enrollment form and turn it into the West Chicago Police Department. The forms are available at the West Chicago Police Department or online here: Illinois Premise Alert Program Enrollment Form (PDF - 169k). The Police Department will have that information entered into the 9-1-1 Call Center’s database. Anytime a call to 9-1-1 is made from that address, the first responders will be made aware of the special needs.

The information provided will not be shared and will only be used to provide additional assistance to first responders. Participating in the program will not result in any preferential treatment.

 

 

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West Chicago is a diverse, family-oriented community with a rich cultural mix and a proud heritage. It is the first Illinois community established by the railroads and continues to be a convenient transportation hub served by three major rail lines, Illinois' third-busiest airport and three state highways. West Chicago offers award-winning schools, a growing industrial park and convenient access to parks, shopping and restaurants. Additional information can be found on the City's website at www.westchicago.org or by calling Rosemary Mackey directly at (630) 293-2200 x 139.
 
 
CITY OF WEST CHICAGO   475 Main Street, West Chicago, Illinois 60185   T - (630) 293-2200   www.westchicago.org