Most residential burglars devote little if any time to the advance planning of any specific break-in. Their crimes are, for the most part, crimes of opportunity. They pick what appears to be an easy mark. They will move onto a safer target if upon closer examination a greater risk than anticipated is revealed. The more you can do to keep your home from looking like an easy target, the safer you are. There are also many steps that you can take to minimize your loss and improve your chances of recovery if a break-in does occur.

The first step in improving overall security is to take a hard look at the security measures already in use in your home. To help you with this task, the Bridgewater Police Department has developed a Home Security Program. Officer Doesburgh has compiled a list of Do's and Don'ts that can help minimize the risk of your home being a potential break-in. Officer Doesburgh can assist by conducting a Home Security Survey of your residence.

To schedule an appointment, please contact Linda Haroll in the Chief’s office 908-722-4111 ext. 4025.

DO
• Always lock house and car doors.
• Install a dead bolt on all exterior doors.
• Use the security devices you have.
• Leave lights on inside and out when you go out for the evening.
• Have the police and fire department telephone numbers near your  
   telephone.
• Carry only what is absolutely necessary in your purse.
• Check with the manager before letting repairmen in your
   house/apartment.
• Close your drapes in the evening hours.
• Be suspicious of people loitering around your house/apartment
   complex or the parking lot.
• Call the police if you see anything suspicious.

DON’T
• Don't keep large sums of money in your home.
• Don't carry large sums of money while you are out.
• Don't let strangers in to "use your telephone".
• Don't undress in front of open windows.
• Don't leave notes on your door.
• Don't hide a key (leave one with a trusted neighbor).
• Don't display expensive equipment or items in plain view through
   your window.
• Don't use your name or telephone number on your answering
   machine message. Use a generic message that does not state that
   you are not home.
• Don't answer personal questions on telephone surveys.
• Don't admit "service reps" from utilities unless you have an
   appointment or can verify their authenticity.