Police suggest steps to prevent burglaries

West Windsor department offers tips.

By: Gwen Runkle
   WEST WINDSOR — In the wake of a recent rash of burglaries to hit the center of the township, the West Windsor Township Police Department is recommending residents take a number to steps to prevent their homes from becoming the next break-in target.
   The police department’s tips include the following:
   • If an alarm system is present, make sure it is activated when leaving your home.
   • Make sure all doors and windows are locked when no one is at home.
   • Put interior light on timers.
   • Locate outdoor lights carefully — on garage doors, shed doors and ground-level windows, for example.
   • Consider various lighting options — motion sensor floodlights or low-voltage lighting to illuminate lawns and walkways can be effective.
   • Keep shrubs and hedges trimmed.
   • Make sure fences and trees don’t hide windows, doors and walkways from public or patrolled view.
   • Burglaries mostly take place when homes are unoccupied. Make sure the home looks occupied even when the residents are away.