FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:
Monique Bond
August 12, 2011 312
814 8367
S/A
Matt Boerwinkle
217
782 6637
www.isp.state.il.us
TDD: 1-800-255-3323
Illinois State Police
Bolsters Security for 2011 Illinois State Fair
SPRINGFIELD—Illinois State Police (ISP) Director Hiram Grau announced
safety and security plans for the 2011 Illinois State Fair. "The Illinois
State Fair begins on Friday, August 12, and is expected to draw thousands
of tourists and citizens statewide," said ISP Director Grau. "State fairs
and parades are an opportunity for families, neighbors, and friends to come
together to celebrate. We want them to celebrate responsibly, which is why
we are reminding the public about safety concerns," he added.
Due to the forecasted cooler temperatures, the fair is expected to draw
even larger crowds this year. The Illinois State Police, along with
Illinois State Fair organizers, encourage families and participants to take
advantage of the celebrations with public safety in mind. Director Grau
stressed the importance of working co-operatively with Fair organizers and
local businesses, and applauded their efforts to make sure public safety
plans are well coordinated.
The Illinois State Police will have more than 150 officers assigned to the
State Fair, along with a full complement of resources and specialized units
to provide public safety. The carnival area will also be closely monitored
by surveillance cameras, along with non-uniformed officers.
The Illinois State Police, along with the Springfield Police and Sangamon
County Sheriff's Office, will conduct joint details outside of Gates 1 and
2 nightly from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. to closely monitor and enforce public
safety issues such as illegal parking, loitering before and after events,
disorderly conduct, excessive adult alcohol consumption, and illegal
alcohol consumption by minors.
The Springfield Fire Department is also prepared for emergency medical
services during the event, and the Red Cross First Aid Station is located
near the southwest corner of the Emerson Building. Fairgoers are reminded
to stay hydrated.
The ISP Fairground Central Headquarters is located behind the Grandstand,
and an ISP Information Booth is located across from the Midway Carnival.
"The State Fair is an Illinois tradition and nationally recognized event,
and we want everyone to enjoy the performances and fairground festivities
safely," said Director Grau.
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