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Holiday weekend mostly safe, quiet
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The Georgia State Patrol has focused its energy on impaired drivers, unrestrained drivers and passengers and drivers exceeding the speed limit this holiday season, and the efforts seem to be paying off.

So far there have been 125 crashes, resulting in 97 injuries and only one fatality. The number of fatalities on Georgia highways has steadily decrease over the past five years. Last year, out of 351 crashes, only three fatalities occurred. The Christmas holiday traffic count officially began Dec. 23 at 6 p.m. and will continue through midnight Monday.

With New Year's travel still a week away, it remains to be seen whether or not the GSP's safety precautions will continue the downward trend.

"It's been about average," said GSP dispatcher Gary Sosebee.

The current weather forecast calls for more rain Monday night and Tuesday, leaving roads slick for travelers, but come the weekend, it looks like sunny skies and temperatures in the low 50s. The traffic count for New Year's weekend begins Dec. 30 at 6 p.m. and continues through midnight Jan. 2.

Though the holidays are coming to a close, the Gainesville Police Department urges travelers and families to remain safe, not only on the roads but at home.

Officer Kevin Holbrook advises not leaving boxes from purchases, such as computers or television, outside for trash collection, or have items visible from windows.

If traveling, residents should leave a light or television on to make the home appear occupied, or have a friend or neighbor watch the residence, he said. And, he advises, residents should remember to lock all doors and windows when leaving, and be sure to report any suspicious activity or situations.