Catalytic converters are part of a vehicle’s exhaust systems. Precious metals used in the devices make them appealing to thieves, who can remove a catalytic converter in minutes, leaving vehicle owners with a costly repair bill. Find tips that could help prevent these thefts at www.oak-park.us/catalyticconverter.

The Village is celebrating the positive impact generated during the first year of its E.C.H.O. program (Engaging Communities for Healthy Outcomes). In the past 12 months, E.C.H.O. has become a vital bridge between residents and needed support, providing compassionate care coordination across the community. By the end of 2025, E.C.H.O. completed more than 700 referrals, connecting residents with essential services including wellness checks, invalid assists and falls support, housing and homelessness assistance, warming and cooling center activation, extreme-weather supply kits, food and utility resources, truancy support, domestic violence services and behavioral health care. Each referral represents a resident receiving timely, person-centered help when it matters most. For more information, visit www.oak-park.us/echo or contact the E.C.H.O. team at 708.358.5640 or echo@oak-park.us.

You can file a non-emergency incident report online through the Police to Citizen portal. This can be used for instances that involve theft, lost property or damaged property. Some examples include package delivery theft, graffiti on your property or items stolen from your garage or vehicle. This does not include situations where an injury occurred or a weapon was involved. As always, in an emergency, call 911. To file a non-emergency police report online, click here.

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.

From the Oak Park Fire Department: Never use your oven or stove as a heat source. Ovens produce carbon monoxide (CO), an invisible, tasteless and odorless gas. Misusing your appliance as a heating source increases the risk of CO poisoning, which can make you very sick and can even kill. Children or animals are at risk for severe burns when stoves are left on unattended. And there is also the risk of something falling on the appliance and igniting, causing a fire. Bottom line, don’t do it. Go to www.oak-park.us/winterheating for more winter heating safety tips.