Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle issued a disaster proclamation today for Cook County in response to storms that hit the region on September 17. Parts of Cook County experienced more than six inches of rainfall in less than 12 hours, leading to severe flooding and other storm damage. Burnham, Calumet City, Dolton, Harvey and South Holland were among the hardest hit municipalities in the County. By signing this proclamation, the County can pursue all available resources to assist communities and residents in their recovery efforts.
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Cook County residents affected by the severe storms and flooding between June 29 – July 2, 2023, may now call, go online or visit a disaster recovery center to register for disaster assistance from FEMA.The application for FEMA assistance is closed.
The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) is accepting applications for the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant program, a component of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Homeland Security Grant Program. EMRS is responsible for administering public safety and homeland security-related grant programs to strengthen the County’s resilience in the face of significant human-caused or natural threats and hazards.
Hot, humid and potentially stormy weather conditions will move across Cook County starting on Wednesday and ending Friday, according to the National Weather Service. Peak afternoon heat index values between 95 – 105 degrees are expected.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle issued a disaster proclamation today for suburban Cook County in response to storms that hit the region on July 2. Several rounds of storms dumped nearly nine inches of rain in less than 24 hours in parts of the County, leading to severe flooding and other storm damage. Berwyn, Cicero and Stickney were the hardest hit suburban Cook County municipalities. By signing this proclamation, the County is able to pursue all available resources to assist communities and residents in their recovery efforts.
Suburban Centers to Remain Operational Throughout the Holiday Weekend Cook County is opening 24-hour warming centers in the north, west and south suburbs to help residents combat extreme weather conditions. The warming centers will open at 5 p.m. tonight and run continuously until 8 a.m. Monday, December 26. Residents who do not have adequate access to heat are advised to seek respite at a warming center. The center locations are as follows:
The County is sharing tips and information to keep residents and pets safe The season’s first major winter storm will bring high winds and dangerously low temperatures to the region. Cook County is sharing the following information to keep residents and pets safe. Heat Safety Awareness The County’s Emergency Management and Regional Security encourages residents to follow the following tips during cold weather to keep themselves and their families safe:
Online holiday shopping can be an alternative to the crowded parking lots, long checkout lines and the general hassle shoppers face during this time of year. But it is not without its pitfalls. Cybercriminals work hard to trick consumers into divulging sensitive information. But there are basic steps online shoppers can take to remain secure online. Cook County’s Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security is offering tips for consumers who choose to do their holiday shopping from the comfort of their homes:
As National Preparedness Month kicks off, the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security is sharing helpful tips and information on its Twitter (@CookCountyEMRS) and website (www.cookcountyemergencymanagement.org) throughout September to ensure residents remain safe before, during and after an emergency.
The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) is encouraging families to plan ahead to enjoy a safe Fourth of July holiday. Hazards commonly associated with this holiday include extreme heat, fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor cooking. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks display organized by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.