Terrorism Awareness

The continued security of the Village of Skokie depends greatly on citizen involvement.  No Illinois law enforcement agency can effectively protect life and property without the support and cooperation of the citizens they serve.  


Be Alert

The Skokie Police Department needs your help in preventing terrorism by remaining alert and being aware of everyday activities in your neighborhood.
 
Take notice of unusual behavior and report any unattended backpacks, suitcases or packages left in inappropriate locations. Skokie Police also encourage the involvement of family, friends and neighbors. Be aware of what is going on around you at home and while you are away.  Become involved in Neighborhood Watch - neighbors working together with police and other emergency personnel, observing and reporting incidents, conditions and crime in their neighborhoods.

Reporting of suspicious activity can help disrupt the terrorist planning cycle. Although it is the intent of the terrorist to instill fear in you, it is your vigilance that the terrorist fears most. Reports can be made any time by dialing 847-982-5900 or by email.


Suspicious Activity

In the event you become aware of suspicious activity, do not take direct action, confront the individual or reveal your suspicions. Rather, record as many details as possible and notify the appropriate authorities as soon as possible. There are three elements in reporting a description to the police: accuracy (most important), speed and completeness. When recording the essential details, utilize the following guide:

  • What specifically did I see?
  • When did I observe the specific behavior?
  • Where did I observe the specific behavior?
  • Who did I observe?
  • Why do I think the behavior is suspicious?

Traveling

Take precautions when traveling. Do not accept packages from strangers and do not leave luggage unattended. It also is important to learn where emergency exits and stairways are located in your office and home and to think about how to evacuate a building or congested public area in a hurry. 


Tips on Giving a Description

For a Person

  • Age (approximate)
  • Build (medium, heavy-set, thin, etc.)
  • Clothing (from head to toe, style, defects, etc.)
  • Complexion (light, dark, ruddy, olive, etc.)
  • Eyes (color, glasses)
  • Hair (color, length, include facial hair)
  • Height (approximate)
  • Method of travel (direction, vehicle, etc.)
  • Peculiarities (scars, tattoos, etc.)
  • Race
  • Sex
  • Weapons (if any)
  • Weight (approximate; use 10 pound increments)

For a Vehicle

  • Body type (two-door, four-door, van, SUV, etc.)
  • Color
  • Damage or anything unusual (logos, etc.)
  • License Plate (most important)
  • Passengers (number of people in vehicle)
  • Year, make and model

Ways to Improve Observation Skills

  • Do not become personally involved
  • Do not let personal feelings interfere with the incident
  • Employ good listening skills
  • Look at the entire situation before making a judgment
  • Observe and report
  • Use feedback to obtain and verify information and observations
  • Watch for non-verbal communications signs

More Information