Illinois is spending about $4 million to equip the state's 53 highway rest stops with security cameras and call boxes - a first in the nation, AP reports.

The system allows travelers to call the state police if they feel threatened and will give police a video record of crimes. The equipment is supposed to be in place by mid-October.

Cameras and call boxes will be set up at each rest stop along interstate highways, indoors or out. If people are in danger, they push a button which in turn alerts authorities and sends them pictures from the camera.