New Lenox Running New Programs Through Safe Communities Designation

Dan Martin of the has been working with various community members on safety initiatives, and he was proud to update the Village Board on his group's progress Monday night.

New Lenox is one of two communities in Illinois, and one of nine nationwide, to be recognized as one of America’s Safe Communities. Martin was charged with the task of making and keeping New Lenox on this list.

“I am very proud of all the volunteers who come out and help," he said during the meeting. "I really owe them a huge thank you, and I am glad to have the opportunity to thank them publicly.”

Among some of the initiatives that Martin and others are working on are continued safe disposal of unwanted medications; preventing slips, trips and falls in the home and in public for seniors; creating a medical reserve corps; and holding Red Cross classes. The group has also been .

Martin reminded the board and all village residents that they can dispose of unwanted medications in a drop box, found outside of New Lenox Police headquarters.

“This will prevent abuse, misuse, and the medicines getting into our soil and our water,” he said.

Martin encouraged the use of a 72-hour preparedness kit and incorporating many programs found at ready.gov. He announced that New Lenox has been approved for a government grant to get training for officers to educate the community around Operation Lifesaver, a state initiative for safe railways and crossings.

He also announced that on March 1, the village will hold a training course for severe weather spotting. Meterologist Mark Strehl of WFLD-TV (Fox Chicago) will be making an appearance. The event will be taking place at .

If you are interested in getting involved with the Safe Communities initiative, the next meeting is at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday in the community room at .