Illinois Community Risk Reduction

Every year, the second week of April is set aside to honor our telecommunicators who are truly the first calming and helpful voice some hear in a time of need. This week-long event, initially set up in 1981 by Patricia Anderson of the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office in California, is a time to celebrate and thank those who dedicate their lives to serving the public.

During National Safe Digging Month this April, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is partnering with statewide agencies and organizations to raise awareness about the importance of contacting JULIE before starting any outdoor digging project. This public safety and education campaign aims to prevent damage to underground utility lines, helping reduce the risk of environmental harm, costly repairs, service disruptions, and serious injuries. Remember—this essential service is free, and one call or click can help keep you and your community safe.

In 2024, Illinois fire departments responded to 9,860 carbon monoxide (CO) related calls across the state. According to the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association, emergency rooms across the U.S. see more than 100,000 visits each year due to CO exposure. Tragically, over 14,000 people are hospitalized annually, and approximately 1,200 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning, a number that continues to rise. Each year, hundreds of people across Illinois are treated in emergency rooms due to carbon monoxide (CO) exposure, and over the past decade, an average of 20 people per year have died from accidental CO poisoning.

CRR Week (January 19-25, 2026) is a grassroots effort led by an informal group of fire safety professionals from across the nation. The goal of the week is to promote awareness of Community Risk Reduction (CRR) within the fire service by encouraging agencies to conduct CRR programs and demonstrate the value and impact of these efforts.

Illinois CRR is excited to participate in CRR Week. We encourage fire departments, organizations, and partners across the state to get involved. Click the link below to learn more about CRR Week and access resources to help you plan and implement CRR activities in your community.