Summer Safety Tips from the Morris County Sheriff's Office

Published on June 30, 2023

“School is out, and it is time to enjoy some Summer fun. It is important we all stay safe this season. 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,” said Sheriff James M. Gannon.

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Burglary Prevention and Car Theft Prevention

The Morris County Sheriff’s Crime Scene Investigation Section responded to many motor vehicle burglaries and thefts this year. 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 alerts followers 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 will be in the driveway, make sure they are locked and the garage door opener is not in the vehicle.

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 are within 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 firework activities.

  • Wear safety glasses when using fireworks.
  • Use the 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 and/or fire extinguisher accessible.
  • If injury occurs, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. Do not touch or rub an eye injury as this may cause more damage.
  • Dispose spent fireworks by wetting them and placing 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 in conjunction 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.
  • Have personal flotation devices (PFD) available for all passengers on board. Children 12 and under must be wearing PFDs while the vessel is moving.
  • A throwable seat cushion or ring buoy must be available.
  • The vessel must be equipped with an adequate horn or whistle and 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.
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