Morris County Sheriff’s Office Issues Summer Safety Tips

MORRIS COUNTY — Sheriff James M. Gannon and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office want the public to have a safe summer, so they’ve compiled some helpful information to help you have a great season.

“School is out, and it is time to enjoy summer fun. We must all stay safe this season,” said Sheriff James M. Gannon.  “I can assure everyone the Morris County Sheriff’s Office is ready and actively doing our part to ensure you get the most out of every moment spent with family and friends. Let’s do so in the safest way possible.”

Burglary Prevention and Car Theft Prevention

This year, the Morris County Sheriff’s Crime Scene Investigation Section responded to many motor vehicle burglaries and thefts. If you plan to travel, the Crime Scene Investigation Section suggests using the following tips:

• Contact your local police department to inquire about property checks.
• Be aware of what you post on social media, including photos and where you “check-in.” This will alert followers that you are on vacation.
• Make sure all doors and windows are locked.
• Make your residence look occupied in your absence. Set indoor and outdoor lights on timers, use motion sensors, and have your mail and newspapers collected.
• Do not have any home improvements done on your house while you are away.
• Invest in a camera system or alarm company for home surveillance. There are reasonably priced systems available.
• Lock valuable and important items in a safe place only you would know.
• Consider having a friend or family member check on the house.
• If vehicles are in the driveway, ensure they are locked and the garage door opener is not in the car.

Protect Your Vehicle

• Stolen vehicles and car burglaries have affected many Morris County residents. Once someone accesses your vehicle, you can become a victim of additional crimes, such as home burglaries via garage door openers or identity theft if purses and wallets are left in vehicles. Help protect yourself by following these tips:
• Lock your vehicle and remove the key fob.
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle.
• Protect your identity and accounts by removing purses, wallets, and checkbooks from your vehicle.
• Contact your local Police Department to report any suspicious individuals or vehicles in your neighborhood.

Fireworks Safety

• Please remember that fireworks can be dangerous and should best be enjoyed by attending professional fireworks displays. However, if you are using fireworks, please review the laws to ensure you adhere to regulations. Legal fireworks can cause severe injury and property damage. Be cautious of your surroundings and courteous to your neighbors. Drink responsibly. Always supervise children, especially around sparklers. Most of all, have fun and enjoy the festivities. A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities.
• Wear safety glasses when using fireworks.
• Use legal fireworks in a clear outdoor area, away from people, buildings, and bushes.
• Never try to make your own fireworks.
• Be careful with sparklers! They burn at approximately 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt glass. They can ignite clothing and burn hands and feet. A fun alternative is to use glow sticks instead. Be prepared for accidents:
• Have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher accessible.
• If an eye injury occurs, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. Do not touch or rub an eye injury, as this may cause more damage.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them and placing them in a metal trash can away from a building until the next day.

• Attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.
• Do not pick up pieces of fireworks after an event.
• Do not bring pets to fireworks displays to avoid exposure to the sound.
• Make sure your pet has an identification tag in case it runs away.

Safe Boating Tips

• The Morris County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol Unit works with the New Jersey State Police, patrolling the waters of Lake Hopatcong from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year. Boating accidents can be prevented by following these safety rules:
• The operator must have an operator license, valid registration, and boating safety certificate in possession.
• Personal flotation devices (PFDs) must be available for all passengers on board. Children 12 and under must wear PFDs while the vessel is moving.
• A throwable seat cushion or ring buoy must be available.
• The vessel must have an adequate horn or whistle and an approved fire extinguisher.
• Navigation lights must be on between sunset and sunrise.
• Be aware of your swimming capability.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Check local weather conditions before departure.
• Use common sense – operate at a safe speed, stay alert, and be respectful of navigational aids and other boaters.

Summer Grilling Safety Tips

• Always place your grill well away from home structures and deck railings and away from overhanging branches.
• Before using a gas grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line to ensure it is not leaking and is working properly.
• Regularly cleaning your grill can prevent dangerous flare-ups.
• Grills should be monitored when in use.
• Use long-handled grilling tools to give the chef plenty of clearance from heat and flames.

For more information on the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, please visit www.sheriff.morriscountynj.gov