Rash Of Car Burglaries, Thefts In Union, Morris, Essex Counties

BERKELEY HEIGHTS, NJ — Several car burglaries and car thefts in Union, Morris and Essex counties have been reported over the past few weeks prompting authorities to remind residents to be vigilant, Berkeley Heights Police reported.

• Locals should lock their cars when parked, even if it is in your own driveway. The majority of car burglaries occur to unlocked vehicles.
• Remove property from inside the car or at the least put it in an area that it cannot be seen by looking into windows.
• The installation of proper lighting, motion sensors, and security cameras in driveways will also help deter some, but not all criminals.
• If your vehicle is equipped with a push button starter, make sure that you take the key fob with you every time and it is not left in the vehicle. You should be aware that, even if you start the vehicle to warm it up and take the key fob with you, the vehicle can be taken. "We recommend investing in a remote starter that will prevent someone from taking the vehicle," Berkeley Heights Police said.
• Lastly, do not leave a vehicle running and unattended while you make that "quick stop" at the local convenience store. Thieves will monitor the parking lots and while you are inside they will jump in and take off in your vehicle.

"An ounce of prevention on your part will save you headaches later if you do become the victim of a crime," Berkeley Heights Police said.

(Image via Shutterstock)

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