For many residents, the holiday shopping season includes shopping online. Unfortunately, the holiday season is also a time when criminals ramp up cyber attacks. Hackers, scammers and online thieves will be looking to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers by searching for weaknesses in devices or internet connections or attempting to extract personal and financial information through fake websites or charities. The Federal Trade Commission has some tips to protect yourself while shopping online. And be sure to review the Oak Park Police Department's tips on safeguarding against identity theft here.

Nothing ruins the holiday spirit more than thieves stealing home decorations from your property. If possible, secure your decorations with locking cords, zip ties or heavy stakes into the ground. You can even try using bike chains and locks to secure items to permanent structures. Label all of your decorations in permanent marker with your name and address as this could help us return any recovered property. This also discourages reselling of the items. Contact us if you have additional questions at police@oak-park.us.

The Oak Park Police Department marked the one-year anniversary of the tragic death of Det. Allan Reddins during a memorial service Saturday at Village Hall. Det. Reddins was killed on Nov. 29, 2024 while responding to a call on Lake Street. Our appreciation to those who attended the service to honor Det. Reddins’ ultimate sacrifice. OPPD officers will continue to wear an honorary patch on the 29^th of each month as a symbol of remembrance and unity. A new sign has also been installed on the ramp near the main entrance at Village Hall where police vehicles are parked, designating it Reddins Way. More pictures from 2025 memorials honoring Det. Reddins are at www.oak-park.us/reddins.  

A reminder that the Village has specific rules that govern parking when it snows. Residents are urged to monitor local forecasts and plan accordingly. When snow exceeds two inches, all parking is prohibited on the main streets posted as snow routes. More information about the snow emergency parking rules and a list of frequently asked questions are posted at www.oak-park.us/snow.

The Oak Park Fire Department’s Keep the Wreath Green safety campaign is underway until Jan. 1. A wreath with green lights will hang at the main fire station. For every holiday-related fire in Oak Park, firefighters will change a bulb in the wreath from green to red. Last year was a success as the wreath stayed green. Help keep it green this year by following a few simple rules this holiday season.