Sayreville Police Chief: How To Stay Safe This Holiday Season

SAYREVILLE, NJ — The New Jersey Association of Chiefs of Police, and its president, Sayreville Police Chief John Zebrowski, offer these reminders to stay safe and not become a crime victim this holiday season:

“Safe holidays are the happiest, most memorable holidays,” said Zebrowski. “But with everyone focused on shopping, travel plans, party schedules and family gatherings, it is easy for people to overlook home security and personal safety.”

“The holiday season is also a time when criminals try to take advantage of people, who are understandably distracted by the festivities,” he continued. “We want to help families avoid misfortune and reduce the chance they fall victim to crimes-of-opportunity like burglaries, thefts and robberies.”

NJSACOP offer these holiday safety tips:

Holiday shopping:

● Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
● Be alert to your surroundings in stores and parking areas.
● If you shop at night, park in a well-lit area.
● Put purchases in your vehicle’s trunk, not the backseat.
● Lock your doors after entering your vehicle.
● Request a security officer to escort you to your car if you feel unsafe or are carrying several packages.
● Teach children to find a store clerk or security guard if they get separated.

Before leaving home:

● Turn off or unplug interior holiday decorations.
● Use automatic timers on outdoor holiday displays.
● Extinguish holiday candles and fireplaces.
● Use automatic timers on a lamp or radio so it appears someone is home.
● Lock all doors, windows and set your alarm system.
● Do not display presents where they are visible from windows.
● Ask a neighbor or friend to pick up your mail or park in your driveway.

Holiday travel:

● Be sure your car is in good working condition; insured and inspected.
● Pack an emergency bag that includes a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, jumper cables and flares or reflective triangles.
● Allow extra travel time in case of heavy traffic.
● Buckle up and be sure all passengers are properly buckled.
● Drive sober. No excuses.
● No texting or handheld cellphone conversations.

Holiday parties:

● If you host a holiday party, provide food and also serve non-alcoholic beverages.
● Arrange alternate transportation for intoxicated guests.
● Use a designated driver, who will not drink alcohol, to shuttle guests home.
● If you attend a holiday party, eat a meal before drinking alcoholic beverages.
● Know your limit. Never drink & drive.

Staying home:

● To dissuade porch pirates, bring deliveries inside immediately.
● Use caution when answering the front door for strangers.
● Criminals may pose as delivery couriers or try to solicit donations door-to-door.
● Ask for proper identification. Do not donate to an unrecognized charity.
● Never leave candles or fireplaces unattended at bedtime.
● Turn off all lighted holiday decorations before bedtime.

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