WBEZ has a new article covering Chicago’s Red-X program, which uses red "X" signs to identify dangerous buildings. The story revisits a symbol that had a significant impact on the city's urban landscape.
Earlier this year, Curious City shared the story of the small but powerful red "X" that was placed on 1,804 vacant properties between June 2012 and July 2013. These metal signs were used by the Chicago Fire Department to warn first responders about buildings that could be hazardous during emergencies. Not every empty building got one — only those that posed a real risk to firefighters or others in an emergency situation.
One tragic example was the death of firefighter Edward Stringer, who was killed when a vacant laundromat collapsed during a fire. That incident highlighted the importance of identifying unsafe structures before they become deadly.
Since WBEZ first covered the Red-X program in June, officials have expressed interest in keeping it going. Alderman Debra Silverstein, who originally pushed for the program, has been looking for more funding. But according to Larry Langford, a spokesperson for the Chicago Fire Department, the program ran out of money and hasn’t received any new funds since then. As a result, the department is no longer placing new red "X" signs.
Instead, the city is now using an electronic system called CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch), managed by the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC). This system allows firefighters to access information about a building’s structural condition directly from their mobile devices when responding to a call. The data appears in red letters, just like the old red "X" signs did, giving the same level of warning without needing physical markers.
This shift to an electronic system means the program is no longer dependent on grants — unlike the original Red-X initiative, which was funded by a $675,000 grant from FEMA. While some may miss the visible red "X," the department says the digital version is just as effective at protecting first responders.
Langford explained that the goal isn’t to prevent firefighters from entering a building, but to make them aware of potential risks. It’s a smart, modern approach that keeps the same level of safety without the need for physical signage.
The transition shows how cities can adapt to changing resources while still prioritizing the safety of those who put their lives on the line every day.
Thanks, Dannis.
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