Full Notification

Fall arrives on Monday, September 22nd. Thus, days are getting shorter and nights are growing longer. As we move closer to the end of daylight savings, burglars are looking for the one house on the street that is dark when there should be normal household activity. The Morris Township Police Department encourage you to reset your timers this weekend so that your home doesn't stand out in the dark.


OTHER SIMPLE PREVENTION TIPS:
◊ Keep all doors and windows closed and securely fastened. An open window or door is an open invitation for burglars. Thieves are also quick to spot weak locks that may be easily forced open. Doors should have deadbolt locks with a one-inch throw and reinforced strike plate with three-inch screws. All windows should have window locks.
◊ Secure sliding glass doors. Place a metal rod or piece of plywood in the track and install vertical bolts. These will help prevent burglars from forcing the door open or lifting it off the track.
◊ Always lock the door to an attached garage. Don't rely on your automatic garage door opener for security.
◊ Update locks if necessary.
◊ Burglar alarms - Not necessarily a deterrent for the “professional”, but more for peace of mind. Can reduce the amount of time thieves are in your home, and help to notify the police of a problem.
◊ Keep shrubbery trimmed away from entrances and walkways. While large, ornate hedges may be beautiful, they also provide a hiding place for burglars who need only a minute to break in through a window or door.
◊ Secure your valuables in a home safe or lock box.
◊ Photograph your valuables and log their serial numbers.
◊ Apply a personal identification number such as your driver’s license number on your valuables by engraving or with a permanent marker.
◊ Lights with motion sensors are a great way to keep the perimeter of your home well lit.
◊ Create the illusion that you are home by using timers on lights, radios and TV's. Making your residence appear occupied, even when no one is home, will deter criminals.