MORRISTOWN (WATE) – Morristown Police Department said they are seeing a large number of car burglaries.
Police said reports of car burglaries were made in residential and business areas. In most cases, they said the burglaries are “crimes of opportunity,” where the vehicles were unlocked with valuables inside.
Citizens are encouraged to lock doors and not leave vehicles unattended. Police said items stolen include cell phones, GPS devices, cash, credit cards, wallets and medication.
Tips for staying safe during the holiday:
Shopping:
- Shop while it is daylight.
- If shopping at night, park in a well-lighted area. Park as close to the building as possible. Avoid parking next to vans, cars with dark tinted windows, or trucks with camper tops.
- Do not leave the vehicle unoccupied while the motor is running and do not leave children unattended in a vehicle.
- Leave packages and valuables in your trunk locked or hidden out of plain sight.
- Before returning to your vehicle, locate your keys.
- Avoid carrying a purse or wallet. If carrying a purse, always keep a secure hold on your purse. Never leave your purse unattended.
- If there is a suspicious person near your vehicle or you feel unsafe, ask the store security to escort you to your vehicle.
- Try to pay for purchases using a check or credit card. If you must carry cash, keep it in your front pocket and do not carry large quantities.
- If your credit card is stolen report it to the credit card company immediately.
- Beware of any stranger approaching you. This is the time of year when con-artists take advantage of those giving.
Children:
- While shopping, leave children at home with a family member or a babysitter.
- If you take your child shopping, teach your child to go to a store clerk for help if they get separated from you. Make sure they know their full name, address, and telephone number.
- Teach children to stay close to you at all times.
- Do not allow children to go anywhere unaccompanied by you.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM):
- Use ATMs during daylight hours.
- Use those located inside a facility or at a well-lighted facility.
- Only withdrawal the cash you need.
- Shield the keypad, from those around you, when entering your pin.
- Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM’s location.
