Chicago Heights, Illinois
Hazard Data Summary
Threat Summary
Chicago Heights faces a critical safety score of 10.0 due to high industrial density. The 16TH & PEORIA EXCEPTION Superfund site is only 3.9 miles away and contains dangerous mercury. This heavy metal can soak into the ground or enter the air. In daily life, this means you must be careful about touching local soil or eating fish from nearby water. With 57 toxic sites within five miles, the cumulative risk to your long-term health is very high.
Action Required
Residents must take immediate steps to secure their living environment against heavy metal exposure. Contact the African Diaspora Foundation to learn about local environmental advocacy and soil safety initiatives. For those concerned about the safety of their current residence or seeking lead and toxin-free housing assistance, contact the Chicago Urban League at 773-285-1500. Additionally, the CEDA of Cook County Inc. provides resources for health-related home modifications and can be reached at 312-288-8010. Request a full environmental assessment of your neighborhood to document specific risks related to the nearby mercury spill sites.
Data Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Superfund Enterprise Management System (SEMS). Facility data from EPA Facility Registry Service (FRS).
This report is generated from publicly available government data and does not constitute legal or medical advice. For current site-specific information, visit EPA Superfund.