Need A Safe Place For An Exchange? Manchester Offers Safe Zone

MANCHESTER, NJ — With the growing popularity of buying and selling things online, the issues of how to safely complete a transaction with a stranger have gained attention as well.

In Manchester, authorities created a place where such transactions can be completed in a public place that is monitored — offering safety to both the buyer and the seller.

Called the “Safe Exchange Zone,” the area at the Manchester Township Municipal Complex allows residents to complete online purchase transactions and make child custodial exchanges safely.

The “Safe Exchange Zone” was created as a means of addressing safety concerns brought about by patrons involved with online purchases from websites such as Craigslist, eBay, Facebook, and classified ads, as well as to provide a safe location for families with visitation rights to make custodial exchanges.

The zone is located in the main visitor parking lot on the northeast side of the Manchester Township Municipal Complex on Colonial Drive, is well-lit and under continuous video surveillance. The designated exchange area consists of two clearly marked parking spaces adjacent to town hall, where buyers, sellers and families can meet and make exchanges.

The marked area is under 24-hour video surveillance which is recorded by state-of-the-art high definition security cameras, authorities said.

"While the 'Safe Exchange Zone' provides a safe area for buyers and sellers to meet, it is important to remember that people you meet online are strangers and can pose dangers," the police department said recently, as it reminded residents of the existence of the zone. "Not every buyer or seller you meet online is someone who is true with their intent."

When making arrangements to complete online transactions face-to-face, residents are reminded:

• Complete all transactions during daylight hours, if possible
• Bring a cell phone in case of emergency
• Notify friends or family about the details of the exchange beforehand
• Never invite strangers to their home or agree to meet at a stranger’s home
• Reconsider any transaction with an individual who refuses to meet at a “Safe Exchange Zone”

Township and/or Police Department employees may not be asked to act as witnesses, or be a part of these transactions in any capacity.

Photo via Manchester Township