Hoffman Estates police ask for info on homes with special needs residents

Hoffman Estates police are asking residents to tell them where residents with special needs are located in the village - information they say could be useful in an emergency.

The department is asking residents to fill out forms that the department will keep on file in case police, firefighters or paramedics are called to the home.

Police Sgt. Mark Mueller said families fill out the forms themselves, providing whatever information they think would be useful to police officers, paramedics and firefighters responding to emergency calls at their homes.

Typically, the information would include someone living at the home who has a physical disability, or a cognitive issue such as autism and dementia, or any type of behavioral issue that may come into play when first responders arrive at a home, Mueller said.

The 911 Premise Alert program is meant to be helpful, and not intrusive, he added.

To make sure submissions are accurate and timely, participants will be asked to reverify the information every two years or update it whenever necessary.

Hoffman Estates residents can submit a form electronically at VOHE.com. They also can download it, fill it out and mail it to the police at 411 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates IL 60169. Or, they can complete the form in person at the police station.