Holiday Travel Tips From The Peabody Police

PEABODY, MA – In an effort to prevent potentially tragic situations this holiday season, Peabody Police Chief Thomas Griffin urges drivers to use these safety tips.

1. Give yourself extra time when traveling. Speeding can result in monetary fines or an accident. "It’s better to arrive late than not at all," cautioned Griffin.

2. Don't use your handheld devices while driving. Distracted driving is illegal, and a major contributor to roadway accidents. Statistics show that at 55 mph, the average text takes your eyes off the road long enough to cover a football field, according to the Peabody Police.

3. Develop a travel safety plan. Before leaving for your destination leave detailed information in a specified location of your residence or with a friend, include your expected time of arrival and anticipated route. Be sure your cell phone is fully charged and you have an ample supply of medications you may need.

4. Put together a vehicle safety kit including a flashlight with extra batteries, a blanket, water, snacks and a shovel.

5. While shopping do not leave packages in open view in your vehicle. Car break-ins typically increase at area stores and malls during this busy shopping period. Also, carry your identification, credit cards and cash in a sealed front pocket; this will avoid a potential theft/pick pocket situation or inadvertently leaving a purse behind after placing down while shopping.

6. If you become aware of any suspicious activity do not hesitate to contact the local authorities: If it’s an emergency dial 911.

With his tips for traveling around the holidays, Griffin included this message:

"As always, all of us, at the Peabody Police Department, would like to express our thanks to the community for the continuing support that has been graciously extended to the various divisions of our organization. Building partnerships with businesses, residents, visitors and friends have proven to be key and essential to solving and preventing community concerns that disrupt the harmony of our residential neighborhoods and commercial areas. Due to these close connections, we have been highly successful in ridding the city of isolated areas of undesirable activities. These challenges are not only local, they include the entire nation. The despicable and heinous acts that have been executed by various individuals and groups throughout the world causing havoc, nervousness and unrest have made us stronger and unifies all to show that as a group, peace can continue prevail. Please join me and take a moment to remember our dedicated and diligent Patrol Officers who will be away from their families during holiday festivities to ensure the safety of our roadways, homes and families. Their service is a demonstration of excellence. Best wishes for the upcoming New Year. Moving forward is the future of great things," said Griffin.

Image via the Peabody Police Department