It seems hard to believe that we are quickly approaching the holiday and winter driving seasons. I wanted to take a few moments to talk about some important seasonal safety tips.

While it is likely that not as many people will be traveling during the holidays, there are still several steps that you can take to make it less likely that you will become the victim of a crime.

•  This is the time of year that “porch pirates” are the most active. These are individuals who steal delivered packages from your front porch. If you are having packages delivered to your home, assure that someone will be home to receive them. If you are not home, make arrangements with a neighbor to bring them in for you.
  
  
•  If you do go shopping, do not leave your purchases visible in your car.
  
  
• If you have gifts inside your home, try not to have them be easily visible or accessible from a window, if possible.
  
  
• Utilize outside motion detector lights.
  
  
• Use a timer to control interior lights.
  
  
• Lock your doors and windows.
  
  
• Make sure that your car is locked and that all valuables are removed nightly. This includes the garage door opener.
  
  
• If you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time, notify your neighbors beforehand. Arrange to have mail picked up and snow shoveled.

We have not yet had our first significant snow, but it is only a matter of time before winter weather arrives in Geneva. Following these simple steps may make it less likely that you are involved in a car accident.

•  Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
  
  
•  Wear your seatbelt.
  
  
• Reduce your speed and assure that you have your headlights on.
  
  
• Make sure that your phone is charged.
  
  
• Leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles, including snow plows.
  
  
• Watch out for ice, especially on the bridges throughout Geneva.

Last but not least, warming up your unattended vehicle is an opportunity for it to be stolen. Each winter, police agencies throughout the Fox Valley respond to vehicles stolen in this manner. If you are going to warm up your vehicle, it is recommended that you utilize a remote starter.

The members of the Geneva Police Department hope that you have a safe and enjoyable holiday season.