Hanover Township Emergency Services receives recertification from Cook County

The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) presented the Hanover Township Emergency Services Department with formal Emergency Agency Certification at the Hanover Township Board of Trustees meeting on Sept. 17. Certification by EMRS recognizes the department’s training program, disaster planning, and emergency response capabilities. The department is trained and equipped to assist public safety agencies serving Hanover Township residents on emergency scenes and can operate independently.

The department was first certified in 2013 and recertified in 2016 and 2019.

“During severe weather and emergency incidents, the Unit is often requested to assist in one or more of the township’s six municipalities and unincorporated areas,” said Michael Crews, Hanover Township director of Emergency Services. “Having this certification only further validates the professionalism and dedication of our volunteers that work alongside, and in coordination with, county and municipal first responders.”

Certification from the county is valid through 2027.

Since April of 2024, Emergency Services volunteers have logged over 12,331 hours and responded to 127 emergency incidents.

“Our volunteers come from all sorts of backgrounds, ages, and demographics,” said Brian P. McGuire, Hanover Township supervisor. “The front line work they do in our communities allow for many police to go back on patrol and for fire personnel and equipment to return to their stations, prepared for the next emergency call outs.”

The recertification process required township staff and officials to work through an emergency scenario that could extend for days, such as severe flooding, a winter storm, or a tornado touchdown. Township personnel developed plans for evacuating residents to safe locations and disbursing supplies while keeping buildings open to serve as shelters. Emergency Services officers identified damaged areas and needed resources that the township could provide to assist in initial response activities. The exercise also allowed for Emergency Services to demonstrate their communications in working with command level personnel in impacted communities.

“I am excited to congratulate Hanover Township on receiving Cook County's EMRS certification,” said Commissioner Kevin Morrison. “This represents not just a milestone for their Emergency Services Department, but also a vital step toward ensuring that every community is equipped to handle emergencies with the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”

For questions about the certification or for information on joining the Hanover Township Emergency Services Unit, please call (630) 837-0301 or email htes@hanover-township.org.