COMMUNITY SAFETY
Crime prevention tips, safety resources, and community awareness for Effingham County residents
🚨 EMERGENCY CONTACTS 🚨
EMERGENCY
911
Police • Fire • Medical
SHERIFF (NON-EMERGENCY)
(217) 342-2101
Effingham County Sheriff
CRIME STOPPERS
(217) 342-TIPS
Anonymous Tip Line
Crime Prevention Tips
HOME SECURITY
- • Lock all doors and windows, even when home
- • Install deadbolt locks on exterior doors
- • Use outdoor lighting with motion sensors
- • Trim bushes and trees to eliminate hiding spots
- • Consider a home security system or cameras
- • Don't advertise absences on social media
- • Use timers for lights when away
- • Get to know your neighbors
- • Don't leave spare keys in obvious places
PERSONAL SAFETY
- • Stay aware of your surroundings at all times
- • Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, leave
- • Walk in well-lit, populated areas
- • Keep your phone charged and accessible
- • Share your location with trusted contacts
- • Avoid walking alone at night when possible
- • Carry a whistle or personal alarm
- • Don't display expensive jewelry or electronics
- • Have keys ready before reaching your door or car
VEHICLE SAFETY
- • Always lock your vehicle, even in your driveway
- • Never leave valuables visible in your car
- • Park in well-lit areas
- • Don't leave your car running unattended
- • Check the backseat before entering your vehicle
- • Keep gas tank at least half full
- • Have emergency supplies (flashlight, phone charger)
- • If followed, drive to a police station or busy area
- • Don't pick up hitchhikers
CYBER SAFETY
- • Use strong, unique passwords for each account
- • Enable two-factor authentication
- • Be cautious of phishing emails and scams
- • Don't share personal information online
- • Keep software and antivirus updated
- • Use secure Wi-Fi connections
- • Monitor bank and credit card statements
- • Shred documents with personal information
- • Be skeptical of unsolicited calls or messages
Community Safety Resources
Effingham Police Department
City law enforcement services
Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: (217) 347-0774
Address: 201 E Jefferson Ave, Effingham, IL
Effingham County Sheriff
County law enforcement services
Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: (217) 342-2101
Address: 101 N 4th St, Effingham, IL
Illinois State Police
State-level law enforcement
Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: (217) 785-2035
District 12: Effingham
Neighborhood Watch
Community crime prevention program
Contact local police to start or join a neighborhood watch program in your area.
Domestic Violence Services
24/7 crisis support and resources
National Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Crisis Text Line: Text "START" to 88788
Substance Abuse Helpline
SAMHSA National Helpline
Phone: 1-800-662-4357
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral
Submit Anonymous Crime Tip
Important: For immediate emergencies, always call 911. This form allows you to submit anonymous tips about criminal activity. For official law enforcement tips with potential rewards, contact Effingham County Crime Stoppers at (217) 342-TIPS (8477).
Common Scams & Safety Alerts
Community Safety Announcements
National Night Out
Join neighbors and law enforcement for National Night Out, typically held the first Tuesday in August. A community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.
ANNUAL EVENT • CHECK WITH LOCAL POLICE FOR DATES
Drug Take-Back Events
Safely dispose of unused or expired medications at DEA National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day events. Prevents drug abuse and protects the environment. Check with local law enforcement for collection locations.
TYPICALLY HELD TWICE YEARLY • SPRING & FALL
Child Safety Seat Inspections
Free car seat inspections and installation assistance from certified technicians. Contact local fire departments or health departments for scheduled inspection events.
CONTACT LOCAL AGENCIES FOR SCHEDULES
Active Shooter/Emergency Preparedness Training
Free public safety training sessions covering emergency response, "Run, Hide, Fight" protocols, and disaster preparedness. Contact Effingham County Emergency Management for upcoming classes.
CHECK WITH COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
The information on this page is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. In case of emergency, always call 911. The crime tip submission form allows anonymous reporting of criminal activity. For official law enforcement tips with potential rewards, contact Effingham County Crime Stoppers at (217) 342-TIPS (8477) or your local law enforcement agency.