Crime prevention has a new twist in Oak Forest, where citizens are encouraged to call a crime-prevention hot line.
Established in July, the special voice-mail service gives residents the option of assisting police without going through a 911 emergency call.
By calling 708-687-4050, ext. 220, residents can leave messages about such things as safety concerns, suspicious activity in their neighborhood and police department issues.
“We think people may be afraid to call 911 because they say the information they want to give doesn’t warrant that. Our hot line gives them the chance to assist the police,” said John Kelly Jr., chairman of the Oak Forest Crime Prevention Commission.
The hot line is one of the efforts by the commission to keep citizens alert and involved in crime issues. Another is the annual “Night Out” program, hosted in conjunction with the U.S. Justice Department. This year’s event will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday on the grounds of City Hall, 154th Street and Central Avenue.