Crash Responder Safety Week: Recognizing Those Who Keep Our Highways Safe

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Fairfax County, VA – Every day first responders risk their lives to keep drivers safe on our Virginia roadways. From police officers and firefighters to tow truck operators and VDOT emergency crews, these professionals work tirelessly at crash scenes often just feet away from speeding traffic.

Crash Responder Safety Week, observed November 17–21, is a national effort to raise awareness about the critical importance of roadway safety and protecting those who protect us. The week reminds all drivers to slow down, move over, and stay alert when approaching a crash scene or emergency vehicles on the shoulder.

Secondary crashes, often caused by distracted or speeding drivers, remain a leading cause of injury and death for roadway responders. Each year, lives are lost and others forever changed by preventable tragedies that happen when drivers fail to give responders the space they need to work safely.

Local Partnerships Saving Lives

The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) works hand-in-hand with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department (FCFRD), Virginia State Police (VSP), VDOT’s Safety Service Patrol, and our local towing partners, Henry’s, Willow Springs, Redman, and Road Runner Towing, to keep crash scenes safe and traffic moving efficiently.

Through Traffic Incident Management (TIM) strategies, the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), and Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drones), FCPD enhances safety and coordination during roadway emergencies, helping responder’s clear incidents faster and reducing the risk of secondary crashes.

Kickoff Event: “Heroes on the Highway” Safety Expo

To launch Crash Responder Safety Week, FCPD and our public safety partners invite the community to join us for the “Heroes on the Highway” Safety Expo on Sunday, November 16, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Mosaic District.

This family-friendly event will feature live demonstrations, emergency vehicle displays, and opportunities to meet the heroes who work roadside to keep you safe. Bring the family, enjoy interactive safety activities, and learn how small actions, like slowing down and moving over, save lives.

Interested in joining our team? Visit our website to learn more about joining FCPD.

For more ways to stay connected, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.