1. Close and lock all lower level windows when no one is home.

2. Be sure all doors (preferably steel) have locks that function and deadbolts
have a thumb-turn-latch on the inside.

3. Do not let anyone you do not know inside your home! Anyone soliciting in the
Township is required to get a Berlin Township ID tag before going door to
door. If someone comes to your home soliciting and they don't have an I.D.
report it to the Police immediately.

4. Advise a neighbor you trust and fill out a house check card at the police
department as to when you will be leaving and returning and any emergency
phone numbers so an extra check can be done on your home until you return.

5. If you see anyone suspicious or any activity that is suspicious in your
neighborhood call the police and give a detailed description of the person (s)
or activity immediately.

POLICE HEADQUARTERS: (856) 767-5878

OR

EMERGENCY DIAL #911

VEHICLE THEFT IS A BIG PROBLEM

Over one million vehicles-cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles and trailers - are stolen every year.

In 1983, there were 1.2 million thefts of contents and almost 1.3 million thefts of accessories from vehicles. The recovery rate for stolen vehicles dropped from 90% in the 1960's to approximately 54% in the early 1980's. In the time it takes you to read this article, nine cars will be stolen!
DON'T MAKE IT EASY FOR PROFESSIONAL THEIEVES OR JOYRIDERS TO TAKE YOUR WHEELES.

Take these steps to protect any vehicle:

1. Lock it and pocket the key when you leave for a minute or several hours. Close windows all the way and make sure the trunk is locked.

2. Control your keys. Never leave an identification tag on your key ring. If your keys are lost or stolen, this could help a theft locate your car and burglarize your home.

3. Important identification papers or credit cards should never be left in a glove compartment.

4. Keep everything of value that you can think you can in your trunk. If you leave packages, clothing, or other articles in the car, make sure they are out of sight or covered.

5. Park in a well-lighted and busy area. Avoid leaving your vehicle in unattended parking lots for long periods of time. If you park in a lot where you must leave your key, leave the ignition key only.

6. When buying a car ask about anti-theft options such as steering column locks, alarms, switches that interrupt the fuel or electronic systems, and locks for tape decks, batteries, and gas tanks. Many insurance companies offer reduced rates to owners who install security devices.

7. Keep your car's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and a complete description in a safe place at home. Since 1969, the federal government has required manufactures to engrave a unique number, the VIN, on all passenger cars in one visible and several hidden locations. One VIN is engraved on a metal plate on the dashboard near the windshield. VIN's are registered with the FBI's computerized National Crime Information Center.

TIPS TO PROTECT SPECIAL VEHICLES

Bicycles, Motorcycles, and Trial Bikes

1. Park it out of sight in a garage or basement or use a cover.

2. Mark it with an Operation Identification number recommended by local law enforcement.

3. Lock your bicycle with a casehardened chain or cable or cable and lock. Winding the cable through the frame and both wheels, and them around a fixed object.

4. Use the fork lock found on most street motorcycles. For extra protection, invest in a heavy U-shaped lock made of extremely hard steel that cannot be hack sawed or a case hardened chain and sturdy padlock.

5. Watch out for key numbers! Some motorcycle manufactures stamp the key number on the lock. With the number anyone can go to a key maker and have a key cut that will fit perfectly. Many key makers ask for identification but don't take chances-write down your key number and then file it off the lock.

Trucks and Recreational Vehicles

1. Many specialized vehicles don't have VIN's' and should be marked with an identification number, such as a driver's license.

2. Lock up all easy-to -carry items like motors and camping gear before leaving your vehicle.

3. Use secured "toppers" or toolboxes. Don't assume a thief can't lift a box because it's heavy.

CELLULAR PHONE ALERT