Take care to protect homes, cars

MANALAPAN - Although there is no cause for alarm, there is always cause for precaution. That is the message Manalapan police Capt. Louis Moreto wants to get out to the public in an effort to thwart would-be thieves of homes and automobiles. He said Manalapan is a safe community, but no town is free of all crime.

"There is not a significant increase (in burglaries), but it is a recurring theme and we need to remind people," he said.

Moreto said residents and visitors should be vigilant about making sure their automobiles are locked, not only overnight, but in the daytime as well if the vehicle is going to be left unattended.

He said toys and electronic items such as phones or game systems should be tucked away and not left sitting in full sight on the vehicle's seats or on the floor.

Moreto said residents who have a home alarm system should test it periodically and know for certain it is in proper working order before going away.

He said safety often comes down to simply remembering to "lock the door, whether it's the house or the car. Sometimes people can best help themselves by remembering these simple things."

Moreto said everyone should maintain normal caution about personal safety and the sight of new faces in the neighborhood.

He said anyone who believes they have seen someone or something occurring that they believe may be "suspicious" in some manner should err on the side of caution and inform police.

Moreto said residents should always call police to report suspicious persons or activities.