(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Chicago is getting ready for summer, and first responders say they have a plan to keep everyone safe.
The Chicago Police Department, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications and the Chicago Fire Department held a news conference Friday to offer the public reassurances.
Police officials said they learned a lot from the recent violence and disturbances when large groups of teens took over the downtown area. They’ll have more high-ranking officers and prisoner vans, among other measures, in the downtown to make tourists and business owners feel safer.
“I don’t think anyone here is suggesting we go out and lock up every teen that’s downtown, dancing in the middle of the street,” CPD Chief of Patrol Brian McDermott said. “I think what we can do better is do a better job of identifying those who are engaged in criminal activity and placing those individuals in custody.”
Mary Sheridan, first deputy commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department, made a plea to Chicagoans to stay safe not just by avoiding gun violence, but by simply "staying aware." And she asked motorists be careful driving through residential areas and past parks because of children who may be playing.
“We’re looking forward to the warmer weather, just like our residents,” she said.
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