Update at 4:47 p.m. on Aug. 14, 2025:
The SouthCom Emergency Dispatch Center has confirmed that all 911 and non-emergency communications are now fully operational following earlier disruptions caused by severe storms.
Officials said the outage temporarily affected non-emergency phone lines and some fire and medical alarm signal systems in Matteson, Olympia Fields, Park Forest, and Richton Park. Throughout the disruption, all 911 calls were received without interruption and handled through SouthCom’s backup dispatch center.
“We want to reassure residents that there was never a risk to public safety,” SouthCom officials said. “If you have an emergency, you should always call 911 without hesitation.”
Now that repairs are complete, residents can again use their local non-emergency numbers for routine matters. In Park Forest, the non-emergency police number is 708-748-4700.
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The SouthCom Emergency Dispatch Center is urging residents in its member communities to continue dialing 911 for emergencies. This comes after severe storms disrupted non-emergency communications and alarm signal systems.
Officials have stressed that all 911 calls are being received and are fully operational. Emergency calls are being forwarded to SouthCom’s backup 911 center as usual. However, non-emergency calls, as well as medical and fire alarm signals, are not being rerouted.
Residents experiencing a fire or medical emergency should call 911 immediately. For non-emergency issues, please contact your local police department directly. Park Forest's non-emergency number is 708-748-4700.
The disruption affects Matteson, Olympia Fields, Park Forest, and Richton Park. Crews are actively working to restore full communications.
“There is no risk to public safety,” SouthCom officials stated. “If you have an emergency, call 911 without hesitation.”
An update is scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 14.
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