Saturday, August 13, 2011
 
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State police bolster security for Illinois State Fair

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[August 13, 2011]  SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau has announced safety and security plans for the 2011 Illinois State Fair.

Insurance"The Illinois State Fair begins on Friday, Aug. 12, and is expected to draw thousands of tourists and citizens statewide," Grau said. "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."

Due to the cooler temperatures in the forecast, the fair is expected to draw even larger crowds this year. The Illinois State Police and Illinois State Fair organizers encourage families and participants to take advantage of the celebrations with public safety in mind. Grau stressed the importance of working cooperatively 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 Department 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.

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The Springfield Fire Department is also prepared for emergency medical services during the event, and the Red Cross first-aid station is near the southwest corner of the Emerson Building. Fairgoers are reminded to stay hydrated.

The central headquarters for state police at the fairgrounds is behind the Grandstand, and a state police information booth is 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 Grau.

[Text from file received from Illinois State Police]

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