Honoring Sacrifice, Celebrating Safely: Memorial Day Weekend Safety Tips

Fairfax County, VA – As Memorial Day approaches, we honor the brave service members who were killed in service of our nation. The weekend also marks the unofficial start of summer, bringing more travel and outdoor activities. The Fairfax County Police Department urges everyone to stay alert and prioritize safety to ensure a respectful and enjoyable holiday for all.

Travel Smart & Drive Responsibly

Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. With increased vehicles on the road, it’s critical to stay focused and follow traffic laws:

• Plan Ahead: Anticipate heavy traffic and allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Buckle Up: Always wear your seatbelt—and make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up, too.
• Follow the Speed Limit: Speeding is a leading cause of traffic fatalities. Slow down, especially in residential neighborhoods and near parks or schools.
• Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away while driving. Texting or using apps behind the wheel is not only dangerous—it’s illegal.
• Don’t Drive Impaired: If you plan to drink alcohol, make a safe plan to get home. Never drive under the influence.

Look Out for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Warmer weather means more people will be walking, biking, and spending time outside. Let’s look out for one another:

• Yield to Pedestrians: Always stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. Be extra cautious in high foot-traffic areas like parks, trails, and town centers.
• No Passing at Crosswalks: It’s illegal to pass another vehicle stopped for a pedestrian.
• Watch for Children: Kids will be playing outside—drive slowly in neighborhoods and near playgrounds.
• Bicyclist Safety: Give cyclists at least three feet of passing distance. Be alert when turning or opening your car door.

Expect Increased Police Presence

Throughout the weekend, expect to see more officers patrolling our roadways, conducting DWI enforcement, and promoting traffic safety. Increased presence is meant to deter dangerous behavior and ensure that our community members get home safely.

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