Leesburg, VA (November 25, 2025) – With Thanksgiving celebrations, holiday travel, and Black Friday shopping approaching, the Leesburg Police Department is reminding residents and visitors to stay safe and plan ahead. Increased traffic, busy shopping centers, and holiday distractions can create hazards both on the road and in crowded retail areas.
Thanksgiving Travel Safety Tips
Whether you’re traveling across town or across the state, the Leesburg Police Department encourages everyone to stay alert and take simple steps to arrive safely:
• Buckle Up: Ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a seatbelt—every trip, every time.
• Don’t Drive Distracted: Put the phone down and focus on the road.
• Never Drink and Drive: If alcohol is part of your celebration, plan for a sober ride home.
• Plan for Traffic: Leave early and expect delays during peak travel times.
• Check Your Vehicle: Make sure your tires, lights, and windshield wipers are in good condition.
• Watch for Pedestrians: Many families are out walking during holiday gatherings.
Traveling for the Holiday? Safeguard Your Home
If you’re heading out of town, take a few simple steps to help protect your home while you’re away:
• Lock All Doors and Windows: Double-check entrances, garage doors, and basement access.
• Use Timers on Lights: A well-lit home creates the appearance that someone is inside.
• Stop Mail and Package Deliveries: Or ask a trusted neighbor to collect them.
• Avoid Posting Travel Plans on social media: Wait until you return to share photos.
• Secure Valuables: Keep important items out of sight or locked away.
• Ask a Neighbor to Keep an Eye Out: They can report anything unusual in your absence.
Black Friday Traffic & Safety
Retail centers and major roadways, including Village at Leesburg, Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets, Battlefield Parkway, Edwards Ferry Road, and East Market Street, traditionally experience heavy traffic throughout the holiday weekend. To help shoppers stay safe and reduce congestion:
• Expect Delays: Allow extra time when traveling near shopping centers.
• Use Turn Signals and Be Patient: High traffic volumes can lead to sudden stops and lane changes.
• Park Smart: Park in well-lit areas and lock your vehicle.
• Hide Valuables: Keep purchases out of sight to reduce theft risks.
• While shopping, carry only what you need: Leave extra credit cards, large amounts of cash, and unnecessary personal items at home.
• Stay Alert in Parking Lots: Watch for pedestrians and vehicles backing out of spaces.
Throughout the holiday weekend, officers will conduct increased patrols around major shopping areas, parking lots, and heavily traveled roadways to help keep the community safe.
“We want everyone to enjoy a safe and memorable Thanksgiving weekend,” said Chief Thea Pirnat. “A little planning and awareness can go a long way in preventing crashes, thefts, and other holiday-related incidents.”
The Leesburg Police Department encourages everyone to enjoy the start of the holiday season safely and responsibly. Remember: If you see something, say something. Report suspicious activity immediately. Emergency: 9-1-1 / Non-Emergency: 703-771-4500.
