Terrorism
The Illinois Terrorism Task Force (ITTF) is charged with the task of assuring that Illinois is ready to respond to an act of terrorism. Due to the commitment of the members of the Task Force and the ability of the associated agencies to come together in a spirit of cooperation and teamwork, Illinois has in place plans to prevent acts of terrorism and plans to respond in the event a terrorist attack does occur.
The best way for Illinois residents to prepare for a terrorist event is to be informed, aware, and ready to face a variety of threats. Even though it has been several years since the tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001, the threat of a terrorist event is ever-present. If you see something suspicious or if something just does not seem right, notify the authorities by calling 9-1-1. The video, 7 Signs of Terrorism, illustrates seven signs to be aware of if you suspect a terrorism plot is being planned or under way. The video can help citizens become active participants in maintaining our homeland security.
In the Event of a Terrorist Attack
If a terrorist attack occurs, it is important that you remain calm and follow instructions from local officials and emergency service personnel. You should be aware of your surroundings and watch for additional attacks. Listen to local TV and radio for directions and travel information.
Suspicious Mail/Packages and IEDs
The Illinois Terrorism Task Force has developed Suspicious Mail/Package and Explosive Awareness materials to help the public, local government and private sector entities recognize and report suspicious mail and improvised explosive devices.
If You See Something, Say Something®
Across the country, in our communities, we share everyday moments with our neighbors, family, coworkers and friends. We go to work or school, the grocery store and the gas station. It is easy to overlook the routine moments in our lives. If you see something that doesn't seem quite right, say something. By being alert and reporting suspicious activity to your local law enforcement, you can protect your family, neighbors and community. Informed, alert communities play a critical role in keeping our state and our nation safe. Learn more.
How to Report Suspicious Activity
We all play a role in keeping our communities safe. Take the time to recognize the signs of suspicious activity. When you see suspicious activity, report it to local law enforcement using the 5W's:
WHO did you see
WHAT did you see
WHEN you saw it
WHERE it occurred
WHY it's suspicious
For Additional Information
- Bioterrorism Preparedness - Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
- Chemicals: In the wrong hands, lethal. In the right hands, useful (U.S. Department of Homeland Security)
- FBI
- Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (U.S. Department of Labor-OSHA)
- IL Division of Nuclear Safety
- IL Dept. of Public Health
- IL Environmental Protection Agency
- IL State Police
- Illinois Terrorism Task Force (ITTF)
- Mail Terrorism
- Office of the State Fire Marshal
- OSHA Fact Sheets
- Preparing for Events: Terrorism - American Red Cross
- Ready.gov – Explosions
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security