Carving Out Safe Travels: Thanksgiving Safety Tips From FCPD

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Fairfax County, VA – As families prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, we expect heavier traffic, busy travel corridors, and more activity across our community. Whether you’re hitting the road, hosting loved ones, or heading out the night before Thanksgiving, here are key safety reminders to help keep everyone safe.

On the Roads: Expect Heavier Traffic

Thanksgiving week consistently brings some of the busiest travel days of the year. If you’re driving:

  • Plan ahead: Give yourself extra time to get where you’re going. Expect congestion on major roads throughout the week.
  • Avoid distractions: Put the phone down, focus on the road, and keep your attention on changing traffic conditions.
  • Slow down: Speeding and aggressive driving contribute to crashes, especially during high-volume travel.
  • Wear your seat belt: Every ride, every time.
  • Watch for pedestrians: With kids out of school and families walking to gatherings, remain alert in neighborhoods and crosswalks.

Night Before Thanksgiving: Celebrate Safely

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is one of the busiest nights of the year for bars, restaurants, and gatherings. If you plan to drink:

  • Don’t drive: Even one impaired decision can have life-changing consequences.
  • Use a rideshare, taxi, or designated driver: Plan your ride before you start drinking.
  • If you see an impaired driver, call us: Your call could save a life.
  • Hosts: Make sure guests have a safe way home and never serve alcohol to anyone under 21.

Heading Out of Town? Protect Your Home

If you’ll be away for part of the holiday:

  • Lock all doors and windows: Double-check garages, sliding doors, and basement entrances.
  • Use timers for lights: A well-lit home helps deter break-ins.
  • Keep valuables out of sight: Store packages, electronics, and gifts away from windows.
  • Don’t announce travel plans on social media: Wait until you’re home to post.
  • Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye out: Collect mail, packages, or anything that signals you’re away.
  • Make sure security cameras and alarms are working before you leave.

Package and Mail Security

Holiday shipping picks up early. If you’re expecting deliveries:

  • Use delivery lockers or pick-up options when possible.
  • Track your packages so they aren’t left outside for long.
  • Ask neighbors to secure them if you’re not home.

General Safety Reminders

  • If you see something suspicious, call us immediately.
  • Keep emergency kits in your vehicle, including water, chargers, and winter-weather essentials.
  • Be patient and courteous. Everyone is trying to get somewhere.

We’re Here for You

Our officers, dispatchers, and professional staff will be working throughout the holiday to keep Fairfax County safe. We wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and happy Thanksgiving.

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

Register your camera with Connect Fairfax County to help FCPD solve crimes, locate missing people, and support investigations.

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