Community Policing Unit

Ridgefield Park Police Department

Let's talk about crime prevention

You know what prevention means? It means making it harder for something to happen.
Crime prevention means reducing the chances for criminals to victimize you, your family, and neighbors.  It means protecting your property and teaching kids and adults to be alert and aware.  It means doing things that build communities up, and stopping things that tear communities down.
You need to go beyond watching out- you need to help out too.  When all is said and done, your safety, health and satisfaction depend on the well-being of others.  That's why partnerships are such a key part of successful crime prevention.
The Ridgefield Park Police Community Policing Unit actively encourages your input to help us ensure the safety and quality of life in the Village.

What To Do  When Your Home is Alone

Have you thought about safeguarding your home while you are away? Here are some suggestions!

1). Stop mail and newspaper delivery. Nothing screams "no one is home", louder than piles of newspapers on the lawn and mail in the mailbox.

2). Trim trees, bushes and shrubs if they block the view of any windows or doors. Homes set back from the street with concealing foliage are more likely to be targets of burglars.

3). If your answering machine message says something like "we are not home" or "we are away", change the message to state something like "we can't come to the phone right now please leave a message".

4). Move small valuables to a safety deposit box as well as any credit cards you won't be using. If possible move larger valuables to a relative or a friends house.

5). Use timers on several lights around the house. If possible, place at least one outside light on a timer as well. Motion lights are highly recommended. Leave draperies slightly open.

6). Check all windows to make sure there are no broken panes or loose latches. Deadbolts on exterior doors do deter burglars. If you leave your vehicle outside, make sure you remove the garage door opener from the vehicle.

7). Notify a trustworthy neighbor of your trip and have them hold a spare key in case of an emergency. Advise them of the departure and return dates and also if there will be any scheduled property maintenance, such as landscapers. have the neighbor periodically check the home.

8). Prepay your bills so they don't pile up.

Have a safe and enjoyable vacation.  

We need your help!

Please download the Neighborhood Survey, print it, fill it out and return to Police HQ.
The free Adobe Acrobat Reader is needed to view the file.

Links to more information:

Domestic Violence