With the frightening news of recent break-ins and burglaries occurring throughout Bernards Township and in Bernardsville, precautionary measures must be taken within the community. One idea, strongly advised by the police department, is to start adding more Neighborhood Watch programs within town.   Bernards Township only has two registered Neighborhood Watch groups, both in Basking Ridge: one within the Hills Highlands Master Association and the other within The Cedars. Both The Cedars and the Hills Highland Master Association are condominium and townhouse communities--which leaves one wondering, "what about the larger communities within Bernards Townshio?"

Two burglaries occurred in Bernardsville on Feb. 17 and Feb. 24, respectively. In both cases, the thief forced his way into an unoccupied home and stole valuables and jewelry. On Feb. 20 a home on Orchard Place in Bernards was burglarized, as well. An unlocked window to the master bedroom on the first floor was the route of entry. The owners came home to find their bedroom in disarray and two jewelry boxes missing. 

The police believe that the worsening economy is one reason robberies are becoming more and more frequent. Now, more than ever, it is important to be aware of any suspicious activity occurring within the community and to immediately report it to the police department. When residents cooperate with law officers and take an active role in protecting their community, crime can be stopped before it occurs. 

Neighborhood Watch programs are an extremely effective and proactive form of crime prevention. "Neighborhood Watch groups typically focus on observation and awareness as a means of preventing crime and employ strategies that range from simply promoting social interaction and 'watching out for each other' to active patrols by groups of citizens." (http://www.usaonwatch.org/about/neighborhoodwatch.aspx?) In order for a Neighborhood Watch program to be instituted in a community, the citizens must contact the local law enforcement agency and organize a program. 

"All Neighborhood Watches share one foundational idea: that bringing community members together to reestablish control of their neighborhoods promotes an increased quality of life and reduces the crime rate in that area." (http://www.usaonwatch.org/about/neighborhoodwatch.aspx?)  By coming together as a united community, a sense of neighborhood is restored and the opportunities for criminals to burglarize or harm others will significantly decrease. Vocalizing residential concerns to the police department will help them map out a solution with your involvement. Police officers and citizens form a partnership with the same outlook in mind: preventing crime within the community. 

If you are interested in starting a Neighborhood Watch group in Bernards Township please contact the local police department at (908)-766-1122.