Illinois troopers must pack supplies for an emergency

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. -- Illinois State Police are carrying extra food, clothing and cash in their squad cars in case they have to respond in an emergency that could keep them busy for days.

And trying to ease safety concerns after the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks, the agency is ordering all sworn officers to wear uniforms.

"As a consequence of the recent terrorist activities, the Illinois State Police must be prepared to respond statewide on short notice," Col. Daniel Kent, deputy director of operations, wrote in a memo obtained by The Associated Press.

The directive, which is in effect until further notice, also orders all officers to wear body armor while on duty.

Police spokesman Capt. Dave Sanders said there's no known imminent threat of terrorism in Illinois.