Matawan PD: How to be Safe During the Holidays

The holidays are a special and joyous time of year. It is also a time when the citizens need to be alert to the possibility of crime. The Matawan Police Department encourages all of our residents to take simple precautions to ensure a safe and happy holiday season.

If you encounter any suspicious activity, please notify the police IMMEDIATELY.

At Home:

• Lock all doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.

• When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.

• Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.

• Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.

• When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday display, make sure doors and passageways are clear inside your home.

• Be sure your Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children, elderly persons or family pets cannot pull it over on themselves.

• Place your Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green.

• Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as lost citizens or couriers delivering gifts.

• It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for false charities.

Driving:

• Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car.

• If you must shop at night, park in a well lit area.

• Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you are parked.

• Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.

• Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.

• Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.

• Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.

Children:

• Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.

• Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.

• Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.

• Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security.

Shopping:

• If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.

• Always carry your New Jersey Driver’s License or other identification and only necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.

• Keep a record of all your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

Hopefully these precautions will ensure you have a safe, happy holiday season.

Any questions, please call the Matawan Police Department Detective Bureau at 732-290-2038.

Sincerely,

Lieutenant Jason Gallo
Commanding Officer
Matawan Police Department