Fairfax County Police Department News

Fairfax County, VA – With Labor Day around the corner and many of us celebrating the end of summer, the Fairfax County Police Department is sharing Labor Day safety tips to help you have a safe and fun holiday.

Heading to an Event?

• Plan Ahead: Expect increased traffic during the holiday weekend. Plan your trips in advance and allow extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
• Obey Traffic Laws: Adhere to all traffic laws, including speed limits, seatbelt use and no texting while driving.
• Designate a Sober Driver: If you plan to consume alcohol, ensure you have a designated sober driver or alternative transportation arranged.
• Stay Alert: Be mindful and aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and children, especially in popular areas.

Celebrating at Home?

• Child Supervision: Keep hazardous items like matches, lighters and sharp objects out of the reach of children. Ensure children are always supervised, especially near pools or bodies of water.
• Home Security: Ensure you have working cameras around your home. Report any suspicious activities to law enforcement immediately.
• Emergency Preparedness: Have a first aid kit readily available and familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures and how to access them quickly if needed.

Going on Vacation?

• Don’t Forget to Lock Up: Make sure you take some extra time to lock all your doors and windows and set your alarm system before leaving your home.
• Secure Belongings: Keep valuables out of sight from windows and consider storing your items in a safe.
• Inform a Trusted Neighbor: Let a trusted neighbor know about your travel plans. They can keep an eye on your property, pick up any deliveries and report any suspicious activities. 
• Social Media: Do not advertise your absence on social media. Wait until you come back from vacation to post about your trip, even among trusted friends.

Celebrating on Water?

• Wear Life Jackets: Ensure everyone on board wears a life jacket and that all necessary safety equipment is available.
• Avoid Alcohol: Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol. Stay sober to keep yourself and others safe.
• Plan for Emergencies: Have a plan for emergencies and be sure to tell someone not going with you about your plans.
• Monitor Conditions: Stay aware of weather conditions and water currents to avoid unexpected dangers.

Our Marine Patrol Unit will be actively patrolling waterways to ensure the safety of the boating community.

The safety of our community is a collective effort. We encourage community members to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. You can report emergencies by dialing 911, and non-emergency incidents to 703-691-2131.

Join us on Neighbors by Ring. A place where you can connect with your neighbors, see what’s happening in your neighborhood, and share any available surveillance footage with our department.     

For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.