Chicago City Wire

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) in Chicago is advising residents to stay vigilant and enjoy the various citywide events and festivals this weekend safely. The OEMC will monitor events and weather conditions from the Operations Center, coordinating public safety resources with critical stakeholders as needed.

Residents are reminded to report suspicious activity by notifying onsite security or calling 9-1-1. The "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign emphasizes the importance of reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities.

The Chicago OEMC app is recommended for receiving alerts, safety tips, weather forecasts, street closures, and event information. The app is available on Apple App and Google Play stores or through the website Chicago.gov/OEMC.

Traffic Control Aides (TCAs) will be present at major events to manage traffic flow. Key weekend events include:

**Windy City Smokeout – United Center**

From Thursday, July 11 to Sunday, July 14, Windy City Smokeout will take place at Parking Lot C of the United Center. Event times are Thursday and Friday from 2–10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 1–10 p.m. Attendees will undergo a full search prior to entry. For more details on security policies, visit WindyCitySmokeout.com/FAQ.

Street closures around the United Center will occur from Monday, July 8 to Tuesday, July 16:

- Madison St. from Paulina St. to Damen Ave.

- Wood St. from Warren Ave to Monroe St.

- Lane closure on Warren Blvd from Wood St.to Damen Ave.

**Chosen Few Picnic**

Scheduled for Saturday, July 13 from 8 a.m.–8 p.m. in Jackson Park at 6401 S. Stony Island Ave at 63rd St. and Hayes Dr.

**Square Roots Festival**

Taking place Friday, July 12 from 5–10 p.m., Saturday, July 13 from noon–10 p.m., and Sunday, July 14 from noon–9 p.m., in Lincoln Square on Lincoln Ave between Montrose and Wilson.

**West Fest Chicago**

Happening Friday, July 12 from 5–10 p.m., Saturday, July 13 from noon–10 p.m., and Sunday, July 14 from noon–10 p.m., in West Town on Chicago Ave between Wood St. and Damen St.

**Sundays on State**

On Sunday, July 14 from 11 a.m.–6 p.m., State Street will close to vehicular traffic between Lake Street and Adams Street for an interactive block party featuring art, culture, recreation activities, food vendors, shopping opportunities among other attractions.

**Chicago White Sox vs Pittsburgh Pirates**

Games scheduled for Friday at 7:10 p.m., Saturday at 1:10 p.m., and Sunday at Guaranteed Rate Field.

OEMC also warns of potential severe summer storms with high winds and lightning that could develop suddenly over the weekend. Residents should check weather forecasts before heading out and be aware of emergency exits if there is a need for sheltering or evacuation due to severe weather threats.

In light of extreme temperatures expected this weekend:

- Stay hydrated by drinking water; avoid alcohol caffeine sodas.

- Stay indoors if possible; keep shades drawn but windows slightly open.

- Minimize use of electric lights oven stove.

- Wear loose light cotton clothing; take cool baths showers.

- Do not leave anyone including pets in parked cars even briefly

To receive updates on heat advisories weather emergencies register for NotifyChicago alerts via NotifyChicago.org follow OEMC social media pages tune into local media download Chicago OEMC App

Pole Markers/Location Identifiers have been installed throughout Grant Park lakefront areas as reference points for emergency responders family friends separated during large-scale events concerts

Public transportation is encouraged both CTA Metra providing additional service during large-scale events like NASCAR Chicago Street Race Visit TransitChicago.com Metra.com for more info

For further information on emergency preparedness visit OEMC website Follow Office Emergency Management Communications Facebook Twitter Instagram

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