The holidays are quickly approaching and winter weather has made an early appearance. The Geneva Police Department thought it would be a good time to provide some basic safety reminders.

• While we all prefer to get into a warm car every day, leaving an unattended vehicle running is creating an opportunity to have your car stolen. Each winter season many motorists have their vehicles stolen in the suburbs. While Geneva is an extremely safe community, we are not immune. If you are going to warm up your car, consider the use of a car starter.
  
  
•  When driving on snow-covered or icy roadways, assure that you leave sufficient time to reach your destination.
  
  
• If you are driving when snow removal operations are in progress, please assure you leave a safe distance between you and the plow vehicle. The snowplow operators are driving large vehicles that need more time to stop. Due to the important work they are trying to accomplish, they frequently drive more slowly than other traffic.
  
  
• Assure that you have emergency supplies in your vehicle and that your cell phone is completely charged when you leave home. Some helpful supplies might include a shovel, blanket, and a flashlight.
  
  
• Remember that bridges freeze up more quickly which can result in black ice. It is very common for the Geneva Police Department to respond to accidents on the bridges in our community during snowy and/or icy weather.
  
  
• If possible, assure that you communicate travel plans with family members or friends.

• Practice the 9 p.m. routine. This is a valuable crime prevention reminder throughout the entire year. The 9 p.m. routine includes simple steps to lessen the likelihood of a crime occurring. Lock your cars and remove all valuables. Lock all exterior doors and windows of your home, activate your alarm system, turn on exterior lights, and lastly remove all valuables from the outdoor areas of your home.
  
  
• If you are going to be away from your home, do all that you can to make it appear that you are home. Utilize timers on your interior lights and consider installation of motion detecting outdoor lights. Consider utilizing the Geneva Police Department vacation watch program if you will be away from home.
  
  
• Ask a friend, relative, or neighbor to pick up your mail and newspapers.
  
  
• If you are gone during snowy weather, arrange to have your driveway and sidewalks shoveled.
  
  
• If you are having packages delivered, arrange to have someone pick them up for you.
  
  
• If you are shopping, attempt to park as close to your destination as is possible.
  
  
• If you are shopping at night attempt to park in a well-lit area.
  
  
• Do not leave packages in plain view in your car.

Hopefully you find these tips and reminders helpful. The Geneva Police Department wishes you safe travels and an enjoyable holiday season.