Full Notification

The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel times of the year. It is important to remember that many people will be traveling closer to home and by way of vehicle due to the economy. The roadways will be busier than normal. With the added holiday stress and roadway distractions it’s easy to forget about safety. Please remember to wear your safety belts, watch your speed, and use a designated driver.

Another important and dangerous travel day is “Black Friday”. People will be out earlier than normal and travelling on little sleep. Please be mindful of your surroundings and drive safely, especially through parking lots. Another thing to be aware of is your personal belongings. Many people will be travelling from store to store in hopes of finding the perfect Christmas gift. It is important to keep items out of plain view in vehicles. If you must keep items in your vehicle make sure you secure them in your trunk or out of plain sight. Please try to park in well lighted areas and carry as little cash or personal items as possible. Please keep a watchful eye on your purses and other belongings in stores. The best practice it to use the “buddy system” this will allow you to keep a watchful eye on each other.

The Gainesville Police Department will be out conducting extra patrols throughout the holiday season. The department’s Police Traffic Services (STEP) Unit will be out looking for aggressive driving, intoxicated drivers, speeders, and unrestrained subjects. The department will be participating in Operation Click It or Ticket and Operation Zero Tolerance through the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

Please report all suspicious activities and or aggressive drivers to Hall County Central Communications at (770)-534-5251.