Police Department’s throughout the country are getting reports of various scams. Some potential victim’s immediately realize something seems awry; while other people fall victim and lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The victims come from all walks of life, income and education levels. The suspects usually rely on appealing to someone’s greed or the victim’s emotions by claiming a family member is in dire need. Here are some common variations; all have been reported in New Jersey:

• The caller claims to be a friend of the victim’s son/daughter/grandchild. The child, usually a college age young adult is in the hospital and needs money for treating an injury.
• The caller claims to be the friend of the victim’s son/daughter/grandchild who has been arrested and needs to post bail.
• The caller claims to be a federal law enforcement officer and will start deportation proceedings against the victim and/or a family member if a special fee is not paid.
• The caller is from a bank and has a special no interest loan available, the victim is just requested to pay a processing fee.
• The caller is from a government agency and represents to the victim they have been selected for a special no fee monetary grant, a refundable fee is just needed to start the process
• The caller states they are from the IRS and unless a fee is paid, the victim’s wages will be garnished or bank account frozen or seized due to unpaid taxes.
• The caller claims to be from the electric power company; the victim’s bill is overdue and unless they make a payment the electricity will be cut off.
• The caller claims the victim has won an international or Canadian lottery and only needs to put forth a processing fee and their winnings will be forwarded in the near future.
• These cases are often difficult for local law enforcement to investigate and or prosecute for a variety of reasons, including crossing state boundaries and international borders and the tremendous amounts of time these investigations can consume for what is a non-violent crime.

Many of the scams listed above will involve the caller asking the victim to purchase a “Green Dot Card” A “Green Dot Card” is a pre-paid debit card sold by many chain stores. The victim will be instructed to purchase a reload card for a certain amount. Once purchased, the caller will ask the victim to read off the security code on the back of the card. With that data the caller can then load the dollar value into a legitimate bank account via a cell phone or the internet. Cash can then be withdrawn from an ATM or the value can be placed on another card to purchase consumer goods. Scams often target seniors, who often have the financial resources but may not be technology oriented and maybe easily emotionally manipulated by being put in fear for a loved one’s safety. Families should have a verifiable code word to use in phone conversation with one another to verify authenticity in such a reported emergency. Also please remember to never provide money to an unknown person that initiates the contact with you.

Like many Police Departments in New Jersey and across the nation, the North Plainfield Police Department has received multiple reports from borough residents of an international scam in recent months. Typically a

resident receives a letter that appears to contain official documents. The outside envelope may be marked “Official”; “Certified Prize Claim”; “Documented Winner’s Letter”, or some other official sounding name.

Inside the envelope will be a letter that the recipient has been declared a winner in an international “Mega Lottery”. The letter will advise them they have been selected to receive a certain amount of money, from a lottery of names randomly selected from North America. One recent victim was advised they had been selected to receive $125,000.00 in United States dollars. Other letters have indicated smaller amounts and larger amounts have also been common.

The letter will usually go on to say that attempts to contact the recipient have been unsuccessful and this is the final attempt. The letter will then indicate that there is a “tax” due on the winnings, and there may a check enclosed for several thousand dollars. In one recent incident the recipient received a check for $3980.00. The “winner” was advised to deposit the check in their account and then using Western Union “wire transfer” that amount to an account in a foreign county, usually in England, or Canada, although other countries have been used as well. The letter stated this was to assist with taxes due and complicated insurance regulations. After sending out their own money through Western Union, the victim learned that the deposited check is to a non-existent account.

These scams are extremely difficult for municipal police to investigate and prosecute because they are international. They not only transcend state and international boundaries making prosecution difficult but also hamper the ability to even develop a suspect because of thousands of miles in distance.

Reports of victims sending money overseas in hopes of collecting a “jackpot” are not uncommon. Remember anything that sounds too good to be true probably is. Requests to send money across international borders so that you may collect money you won form a lottery contest should be a bright beacon warning you to stay away and just destroy the letter.

Like many Police Departments in New Jersey and across the nation, the North Plainfield Police Department has received multiple reports from borough residents of a relatively new scam in recent months. Typically a senior citizen will receive a call from a young man or woman claiming to be their grandchild in desperate need of money. Various stories are told of being under arrest and needing bail money; of losing all identification and needing money to purchase airline tickets home from a foreign country; or even needing financial assistance for an emergency medical procedure. Another variation is for the caller to say they are a friend or roommate of the grandchild making the call because the grandchild is hospitalized or incarcerated.

These calls usually originate out of the country, often in Canada or the Caribbean. This makes it extremely difficult to investigate and prosecute these incidents. With so much information publicly available on the internet, determined criminals with time are able to mine data. Finding a senior’s phone number with a college or high school aged grandchild can be done on the internet in a relatively short amount of time. The call is made and the money is requested by electronic bank transfer, Western Union style transfer, or a variety of other ways manipulated by the criminal.

As hard to believe as this may sound, this scam has been used successfully by criminals to get money from unsuspecting victims on numerous occasions. The best defense to this scam is to terminate the phone call, hang up, and not to engage the suspect in any further conversation.

Another step to prevent becoming a victim is to establish a private password known amongst family members. For example, if you have a grandchild studying abroad for a semester, give them a private password to always use at the beginning of any telephone conversation with them while overseas. College websites and on-line newsletters often have articles on students studying abroad often naming their hometowns, giving criminals a ready resource of potential victims. If the caller does not use the password assume it is not your family member. If you believe you have been victimized in this manner contact your local law enforcement agency.

With the warm weather of summer, Police Departments in Central New Jersey often see a spike in the number and frequency of “scams” and “thefts of opportunity”. Scams can be defined as criminal trickery used to separate victims from their money and/or property. However, many could be avoided if the victim remembered the old adage: if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Or as the comedian W. C. Fields used to say: you can’t cheat an honest man. The most commonly investigated scams fall into three varieties: distraction burglaries; home improvement deceptions and “pigeon drops”. These crimes are usually carried out by experienced criminals and often targeted at specific segments of society.

Not as complicated, but just as problematic are “thefts of opportunity” or “cherry-picking”. The term cherry-picking, refers to criminals selecting what they want from vehicles, based on what they think they can use, sell or convert to cash. These incidents are often unplanned by the criminal but carried out when the opportunity presents itself. In Central New Jersey a large proportion of these incidents are the theft of personal property from motor vehicles. Any item of value, left in plain sight in a car is a target. Many police officers have heard people who commit these crimes say they saw the item in a car and decided to take it. If the car isn’t locked it is even easier. If the car is locked, it just means breaking a window first; not a big problem when it’s not your car. These incidents can be avoiding by not leaving MP3 players; radios; GPS units and cell phone in the plain view in the passenger compartment of cars. At the very least those items should be secured in the trunk or out of sight. Leaving them visible is an invitation to theft. Take your valuable items out of your car; if that is not possible secret them out of sight. Doing so will greatly reduce the chances of the item being stolen.

Distraction burglaries are usually targeted at senior citizens in single family residential neighborhoods. Typically a male in work clothes, often wearing a tool belt and carrying a portable radio will make contact with a homeowner and indicate he is with the water company or other public utility. He may say he is checking on water pressure in the neighborhood and ask the homeowner to show him where an exterior water spigot is or where the supply line comes into the house in the cellar. While that party distracts the resident a second party will enter the house and head to the master bedroom where the dressers and closets are ransacked for valuables. A short key of the transmit button on the second party’s radio lets the first party know that the mission is complete. They get away with cash or jewelry before the resident knows it’s gone. Lesson: Always ask to see legitimate employment identification, if the person can’t provide it don’t let them in your house and immediately call the police.

Typical home improvement scams are often carried out by gypsy transient groups that have various ethnic backgrounds. A home owner may be approached by the group’s leader masquerading as a legitimate contractor. Often he will claim they were sealing or paving driveways in the area and had an abundance of high quality left over material they will utilize at a deeply discounted price. If the homeowner agrees, they may find out they just had their driveway “sealed” with the used motor oil from the gypsy group’s caravan of vehicles. New Jersey criminal law now mandates that contractors be licensed by the state of New Jersey. Lesson: When contemplating home improvements, you should initiate contact with contractors, and avoid work by “contractors” that initiate contact with you. Similar scams have involved chimney issues, and recently one Somerset County municipal police department investigated a case where scam artists approached a senior in a shopping center parking lot offering to conduct low cost body work on the victim’s car.

Finally, there are the “pigeon drop” scams. These are often targeted at recent immigrants. The first criminal will approach the victim and make an indication such as that they have found a large sum of money or have a winning lottery ticket but need help since they are undocumented. They then “coincidentally” meet another citizen, (actually another criminal working in concert with the first criminal). That party may offer to put up some cash or jewelry in good faith, and suggest the victim do like wise with the intention that they all split the proceeds once they have been legally obtained by one of the group. The victim then may go home for jewelry, or withdraw cash from the bank as a sign of good faith. At some point the victim will be separated from her property as the other two parties go to either with draw cash from the second party’s bank or go to “cash-in” a winning lottery ticket. They never come back but have the victim’s contribution. Another common conclusion leaves the victim with a brown paper bag seemingly filled with cash. Once the criminals separate and are away, the victim finds it contacts slips of newspaper. The details may differ but the result is the same, a person is separated from their property. Lesson: Avoid strangers offering you money for nothing and asking you to put up good faith collateral; immediately contact your local police instead.

Again the bottom line with these incidents is that if something seems too good to be true it probably is. The other thing to remember is never let people unknown to you into your home without proper identification. Finally if you are uncomfortable with someone or a set of circumstances you find yourself in immediately contact your local law enforcement agency.

According to the FBI, (Federal Bureau of Investigation), Uniform Crime Reports, a motor vehicle is stolen in the United States every 26.4 seconds; that’s 2,880 cars a day, or over one million a year. The reasons for automobile theft include: The resale value of the car, often overseas, or for its parts, which can generate much greater profit margins. They may also be taken for no cost transportation. Finally cars are also stolen to facilitate the completion of other more sinister crimes such as robberies and burglaries. While it may be impossible to completely eliminate the possibility of automobile theft, there are things you can do to decrease the chance of your car being stolen. Many are no cost practices that can be incorporated into your daily routine. Others are more expensive and owners should conduct a cost/benefit analysis before committing to the expenditure. A few of the no cost practices are as follows:

Never leave your car running while unattended. This is almost an open invitation to give your car away. Additionally, in New Jersey it is illegal to leave an automobile running and unattended. It also creates a safety hazard, wastes fuel, and is not environmentally green either.

Never leave your keys in your car, even in a locked garage. Thieves know to check all the hiding spots commonly used by friends and families such as above the visor, in the ashtray, or below the seat.

When your car is not in use, always roll up the windows and lock the doors, even in locked garages.

Never leave valuable contents in view. GPS navigation devices; ez pass transponders; MP3 players; loose change; garage door openers; etcetera, should be secured out of sight and preferably outside of the vehicle as well.

When away from home or your employment site, attempt to always park your car in well lit, heavily traveled areas.

Never leave identification documents in the car, especially registration and insurance cards.

When parking your car with a valet, provide them the valet key and remove documents and valuables as noted previously, or better yet, park it yourself if permitted.

You may also want to consider additional steps that will incur a cost. One needs to consider the expenditure versus the benefit. Factors that should be considered include the year, make, and model of the car; the car’s cosmetic appearance and mechanical condition; any sentimental value the car may have to you as the owner; and depending on where you live, if your car is a model that is commonly stolen in that area. These options include but are not limited to:

If having an alarm installed, seek out reputable businesses, get several estimates and check with local law enforcement if there are any regulations you need to maintain compliance with.

Consider having a hidden engine shut off switch installed. These prevent the car from being started by unauthorized persons, but remember cars are also stolen by tow truck and flat bed vehicle carriers.

Consider a device such as: “the club” that prevent a steering wheel from being turned.

Consider a service such as “Lojack” that hides a transponder in your car. If reported stolen to law enforcement the device is activated and it emits a signal that allows police vehicles with special detectors to locate and recover the car.

These suggestions are by no means all inclusive, there are other options and products you can consider. For further suggestions consult your local law enforcement agency.

When parking your car in the warm weather of summer, don’t be tempted to leave the car windows down; if the windows are down, the door locks don’t do anything. Police Departments across New Jersey are inundated with reports of the theft of valuable items from the inside of cars. These incidents take place on the street; in the parking lots of businesses, shopping malls, schools, parks, apartment building; and private driveways. Several years ago the most commonly reported stolen items were car radios and radar detectors. A recent review of newspaper articles reflect anecdotal evidence it is now portable navigation devices made by such companies as Tom-Tom, or Magellan. These devices provide real time directions through the Federal Government’s global satellite positioning system and can cost several hundred dollars. They make attractive targets for thieves. MP3 players such as Ipods, and subscription radio receivers such as those used by XM radio or Sirius radio, are also frequently being reported as stolen from inside parked cars as well.

There are several things you can do to make your car a less attractive target. The simplest is don’t leave valuables in your car. This may be unrealistic due to the inconvenience of taking these items in and out of your car each time you use it. If leaving these items in your car at least put them out of sight, such as under a seat or in the glove box. Many of the people that steal items from inside cars have told police they would first look in the car and move on if nothing of value was visible. When parking your car, roll up the windows and lock the doors. This is the most obvious theft deterrent but also the most overlooked. Numerous police reports indicate the items were stolen from automobiles that were unlocked. Never leave your keys in your car; police reports also often include that information as well. That is an open invitation for criminals to take your car.

If you have a garage use it, if your car is out of sight, chances are it will be left alone. If you have to park it on a public street or parking lot, try to park it in a well lit space, thieves prefer to work in poorly lit areas that provide them with some cover. If you’re wondering if you should lock your car in your own driveway, the answer is a resounding yes. A thief can be in and out of your car in thirty seconds, barely enough time to be noticed during the day, let alone in the middle of the night. Another option is to consider an alarm system. That will be covered in the next tip on preventing automobile theft. The previously offered tips are a no cost alternative, and although not fool proof will over a degree of protection that’s only cost is taking the few minutes to implement the suggestions.

Thefts from the interior of automobiles are a serious problem in New Jersey and is it not taken lightly by police agencies. Entering the automobile of someone unknown to the actor with the intent of taking their property is considered burglary under New Jersey law. When police departments make an apprehension and are able to prove that intent, they will enthusiastically pursue the most serious charges available. You may assist the police by maintaining a list of the valuable contents in your car including their serial numbers, or owner applied numbers. In this day and age of digital photography, keeping a photographic record is an inexpensive and not overly time consuming method of aiding a police or insurance company’s investigation too.

Remember, place valuable items out of sight; roll up windows and lock the doors; park the car in a garage or well lit area; keep a record of valuable car contents, and PLEASE NEVER LEAVE YOUR KEYS IN YOUR PARKED CAR.

The holidays are among the busiest days for merchants and shoppers alike. In your haste to fill wish lists and take advantage of clearance sales, you should take several precautions to avoid becoming the victim of an identity theft. First consider all of your personal numeric identifiers private precious data. In order to guard against fraud some merchants still request social security or driver’s license numbers. Advise them you prefer not to, most merchants understand. Still others will ask for a phone number, that can lead to unwanted phone solicitations, or someone determining your address using a reverse directory data base.

Don’t let your credit card leave your sight, devices are now sold on the internet that are smaller then a cell phone. They can scan a credit card and record of all the data stored on the magnetic strip and download it into a computer. Your account number could then be used by criminals. Keep your credit receipts safe and destroy them after proofing your statements. Make it a habit not to keep the receipt in the bag where it could easily fall out.

Consider that anybody seeing one of your checks, could wreck havoc with just the account number, your name, and the name of the bank. There is no end to the deviations the criminal element will consider trying. If you have an ATM or debit card never write the PIN number on the card. Believe it or not, the law enforcement community consistently sees people that become victim after losing their cards with the PIN written on it.

Check your credit card and bank statements carefully, an honest mistake might have been made erroneously charging a purchase to your account. If that occurs most credit cards have the procedure for disputing a charge written on the reverse of the statement. Follow the guidelines in a timely manner and most matters can be resolved equitably.

Finally, one can never underestimate common sense personal security while shopping. If you are using cash, be careful not to display the amount you are carrying. Remember that no amount of cash is ever worth your life, if subjected to a robbery, consider the cash expendable.

While out and about, always be aware of where you park, which pocket your keys are in, and your cell phone location. Your cell phone could become your life link in any kind of emergency.

Crimes can occur at your place of employment just as easily as they can on the street, in your neighborhood, or home. In fact many people let their guard down at work, leaving their possessions more available to people who would not think twice about helping themselves to another person’s property. However there are certain things we can all do to make our work places safer and our possessions more secure.

While at work keep possessions such as pocketbook, keys, wallet, or cell phone with you at all times. If you can not, lock the items in a desk, closet, locker or secure area. If they can’t be locked and you can’t keep them with you, at least make sure they are not in plain view of all to see. Personal items such as calculators, tools, radios, or coffeepots should be marked with your name or identifying number, (do not use your social security number). Report broken or flickering lights to building maintenance or the appropriate authority. Request immediate attention and mitigation of doors and windows that are not in proper working order. See to it that the exterior of the facility is in order, and that there are no abandoned autos, or overgrown vegetation that might appear to be inviting hiding spots to criminals.

If your employment puts you or others in a place where you or they are by oneself, the individual should have a cell phone to summon police, fire and emergency rescue personnel. Most cell phones can be programmed so consider putting numbers for the security department or other people at the same facility if you don’t have a security department. Reception areas should be equipped with a panic button and a camera that can be monitored at another location with the facility. If your employer does not require visitors to be escorted, or to identify themselves upon arrival request management consider implementing a policy mandating same. Many businesses require non-employees to wear visitor badges.

Use stairway and elevators with another person that you know. If an unknown person is making you nervous, alert other people and call for the police or security. Restrooms should be kept locked, so outsiders can’t gain access and hide in a stall.

When working late try to coordinate with another employee so that you are not alone. When walking to your car in a parking lot or garage do so with a companion or request an escort from security. Always lock your car and look inside both the front and back seats before getting in. Always have your key ready, fumbling around for keys may appear to be an invitation to a thief or mugger. Once in your car, lock it. Try to park in an area that will be well lit after dark. Although talking on a phone while driving is banned by law in New Jersey, have your cell phone ready to go in the event you need to summon authorities or emergency response personnel.

Finally let someone from your family, or friends know what your work schedule will be.

In the event of a problem, some one will become concerned if you don’t show up when you should and hopefully sound an alarm to locate you. Common sense, personal awareness, and prudence can prevent or reduce danger.

The use of automatic teller machines is as common as making phone calls on cell phones. There are certain steps that can be taken with ATM cards to minimize risk and improve safety. First never write your pin number on the card. Believe it or not police departments often take reports from individuals that lose or have their card stolen, with the pin number written on the card. The pin number is a security feature that should guard against theft. Having it written on the card is an invitation to theft. Try using a number you will remember but that would not be obvious to a would be thief. Perhaps a number from some other area of your life, such as a phone number, child’s date of birth, combination of numbers associated with sports, your imagination is your only limit.

Check your bank statement each month to make sure your account has not been compromised in some way.

There are a number of steps you can take while actually using the machine itself to reduce the risk of encountering criminals. First be observant and aware of your surroundings while approaching an ATM. If anyone in the area causes you concern exercise discretion and use another machine., even if it means incurring a service charge.

Try to utilize the machines during the day and in well lit busy public places at night. Many stores now feature machines inside which will generally increase safety by reducing the isolation some machines are located in.

Plan your transaction ahead of time, knowing exactly what you are going to do, the less time at the machine the better. Be aware that the friendly person in line may be sizing you up or distracting you while their accomplice moves in. Someone offering you to get in front of them may have ulterior motives.

When using a drive through ATM, keep your doors locked, other windows up, and be prepared to drive away if someone approaches you. In both a car at a drive though, and on foot at a walkup it is always better to have a companion then to be alone.

Finally take your receipt, don’t throw it in the garbage or leave it behind. It may have valuable clues a thief might use to compromise your account. Report any discrepancies to bank management as soon as possible. If your card is ever lost or stolen report that to the bank immediately and start a log of when you make the notification and to whom.

In summary, be aware of your surroundings; avoid using the machine if someone in the area makes you uneasy; exercise common sense; report any mishaps immediately; and don’t allow yourself to become accustomed to easy cash access, if it will cause you to exceed your budget.

When the weather warms up bicycles come out of the cellar, garage and porches for transportation and recreation. They also become the target of thieves. Bicycles are often ridden away and abandoned. Bicycles provide a cheap, (stolen), means of transportation. They may also be targeted by more sophisticated thieves that are always on the lookout for an expensive model which can be easily sold for cash.

Today there has been a proliferation of bicycles due to relatively inexpensive models imported from China and the growth of interest by adults that often can afford high end mountain bikes and racers. A ten speed can often be purchased at a big box retailer for under seventy dollars while a bike hobbyist can easily spend a thousand dollars on a mountain bike.

Both ends of the price spectrum and everything in between can be protected by practicing “common bike sense” and making an additional investment in a good bike lock. If you have purchased a high end bike then make the sacrifice and purchase a high end lock, some bike locks actually come with an insurance policy if the lock is defeated and the bicycle stolen. If you have an inexpensive bike you may not want a lock that may cost nearly what the bike did but at least equip it with a lock.

First and foremost, if you or your children are accosted by a person demanding your bike with a threat of violence, give it up, no bike is worth your life or an injury. Chances are they want to ride off on it and get away from you as fast as possible. Once gone immediately notify the local police with a description of the actor(s). This underscores the importance of recording the make, model and serial number, (keeping the original receipt in the owners manual with pictures of the bike is a good idea as well). A stolen bike can be entered by the police in the National Crime Information Center, (NCIC). Police departments across the country also recover numerous bicycles and if entered into the NCIC database the proper owner can be located and the bike returned. If your local police department has a bicycle registration program take advantage of it and register the bike, it only takes a few minutes and is usually done at no or little cost. This will also aid the police with returning your bike.

To avoid the theft of your bike the first step is to keep it out of sight. Believe it or not, police take bike theft reports from citizens that have left the bike unlocked out in the open in their own yard all the time. That’s an open invitation to thieves to ride off on it. Place bikes in the garage or in the back yard. Many thefts are targets of opportunity. If not seen, it will not be taken.

Next consider locking it even at home. If it is going to be problematic for a thief to take it he may move on to the next target. Also many miscreants know that entering a garage or porch to take a bike becomes a burglary, they may chance a theft complaint in municipal court but will want to avoid a burglary charge in Superior Court.

When away from home, such as at school, playground, or train station, lock the bike to a bike rack. If there is no bike rack, consider a large, heavy fixed object such as a large tree. Ideally the lock should include a cable that can go through both wheels and the frame. In a worst case scenario where there is nothing to lock the bike to, lock the bike to itself, such as putting the cable through the frame and a wheel, that way at least the bike can’t be ridden away.

Finally try thinking as a thief. Look at your bike and consider how a thief might steal it. If you find a vulnerability, determine how to overcome it, thus keeping it more secure. Remember: secure it out of sight; lock it when it has to be on public display; and retain all records to aid in reporting it stolen so if recovered you can get it back.

As the weather gets warn, both young and old will be getting bikes out of storage; dusting them off; pumping up tires; and lubricating chains. Bicycles are environmentally clean and an enjoyable form of exercise; they can be used for transportation or recreation. However bicycles are not without risk. According to a position statement of the American Academy of Pediatrics, (February of 2007), there were approximately 430,000 Emergency Room visits for children under 21 due to bicycle accidents in 1998. The statement also indicates in 1998 an estimated 23,000 children under 21 sustained head injuries from bike accidents and another 275 children under the age of 21 died in bike accidents.

What is the single most important thing a parent can do? HAVE YOUR CHILDREN WEAR HELMETS WHEN BIKE RIDING. The AAP statement estimates that 88% of the brain injuries sustained by children in bike accidents could have been prevented if the child had been wearing a properly fitted bike helmet. Adults should wear helmets as well.

Many people, especially teens may think that helmets aren’t cool. However helmets are the law. New Jersey Motor Vehicle Code Title 39:4-10.1 requires all persons under the age of 17 riding a bike to wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet that meets the American National Standards Institute standard for a bike helmet, (ANSI Z90.4). Title 39:4-10.2 states that a violation may be subject to a $25.00 fine for the first offense and up to $100.00 fine for subsequent violations, parents or guardians to be fined in the case of juvenile violators.

How do you get your child to wear a helmet? Wear one yourself. Children learn by example and seeing a parent wear a helmet sends a strong signal on the helmet’s importance. Young children can be raised to believe the helmet is part of the bike riding experience, you don’t ride a bike without the helmet. Older children might be persuaded by reviewing statistics. If that has little impact, consider having a teen observe a honey due melon or cantaloupe fall from three feet to the asphalt pavement. A wasted piece of fruit may be the graphic lesson a teen needs to recognize the danger the head faces from a fall or accident on a bike. Brain damage is not cool.

Bicycle enthusiasts and bike shop owners remind us that helmets must be properly fitted in order to offer maximum protection. There are numerous helmet styles and types for general, racing, or mountain biking. They are all available in various colors and designs. A helmet should be test fitted to see that the general shape fits the head. Side to side and front to back motion and stability should be checked. The straps should all be properly adjusted and pulled tight but not uncomfortably so. Once properly fitted, parents should check fit on a periodic basis depending on a child’s maturity level.

When purchasing a helmet for an adult venting should be considered. A hot helmet that causes perspiration to run into one’s eyes may not be worn, and accidents happen when least expected, no helmet, no protection. A common mistake of young and old alike is wearing a helmet cocked back exposing the forehead. A properly fitted helmet will reflect the diagram in the owner’s manual. A bike helmet may be another expense but properly fitted and worn, it may save the life of you or your child. BICYCLE RIDERS NEED TO WEAR HELMETS.

In two other articles we reviewed bicycle theft and the importance of wearing a helmet. To finish the series, we will review road placement when riding a bicycle and the use of accessories.

First, when riding a bicycle on a public roadway it is required by Title 39, New Jersey Motor Vehicle and Traffic law that the cyclist “keep right” and ride with the flow of traffic. The law also specifies that the cyclist ride “as far to the right as is practicable”. This exposes the cyclist to some hazards, but in general cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles. Bicyclists must always maintain a mind set of riding defensively. One hazard is that of parked vehicles and the opening of car doors into the lane of traffic. The cyclist must be aware of occupied parked vehicles and the potential of an opening door. While riding as far right as practicable, traffic crossing the cyclist path may not see the cyclist, so the cyclist must ride defensibly and react to vehicles or pedestrians crossing his or her path. Cyclist must also be aware of traffic next to and behind them at all times in case of a need to change lanes due to obstructions in their line of travel.

Next is a review of accessories that will increase the safety of cyclists. No matter the level of lighting it is a good ides to wear a reflective vest or reflective clothing while sharing the road with motor vehicles. The attention drawing colors and designs will bring the focus of the drivers to the cyclist and generate awareness, thereby increasing safety. The bicycle should also be equipped with reflectors on its wheels, pedals and frame points, creating what is called a signature pattern outlining the bicycle.

If anticipating riding in darkness a headlamp is required by law. This item will increase the safety margin substantially, by not only illuminating the roadway for hazards, but also advising motorists of the presence of a bicycle, thereby reducing the possibility of a left turning vehicle not seeing the cyclist. In low light environments a flashing red light should also be mounted at the rear of the bicycle. With the advent of LED lights and microprocessors, powerful bicycles lights can now be found which are affordable, long lasting and effective.

The law also requires a cyclist to equip his bicycle with an audible warning devise. If going on long rides a spare tube and some simple repair tools are also suggested. If ridding in hot weather a bottle carrier is a necessity for hydration.

When cycling in New Jersey, it is important to remember that not all drivers of vehicles expect and react well to cyclists sharing the roadway. Extra responsibility falls on the cyclist to remain safe. With our present lifestyle of long working hours, quick unhealthy meals and no exercise, cycling is a great opportunity as a commuting vehicle to incorporate travel and exercise into a healthy lifestyle. Remember that this years “Ride to Work Day” will be held July18th and a quick internet search with provide with countless tips and motivation to get on the road safely. Enjoy.

With the closing of school in the next several weeks we will be in the midst of the summer vacation and travel season. Travel will take place by plane, train, and automobile. The family summer vacation by car is a popular part of our culture. Prior to embarking on your vacation, near or far, no matter what the means of conveyance, take time to plan your journey and implement common sense safety precautions.

First consider how your residence will appear while you are away. Take steps to see that mail and newspapers don’t build up in your absence. An uncut lawn may be interpreted by a prowler that the residence is vacant. Have garbage cans been empty for a prolonged period of time? or left with recycling buckets at curbside for longer then usual? On both long and short trips lights should be set to come on and off with sensors or timers. Ask a friend or neighbor to keep an extra check on your residence. It may be advisable to have someone maintain your lawn on a prolonged trip. Let a neighbor park their car in your driveway so that it does not remain vacant the entire length of the trip.

For trips by car, check the route by internet map, or bring along a paper map with the route outlined. Be sure someone knows your destination, and approximate time of arrival. Prior to leaving inspect your vehicle for fluids and tire condition. Remain aware of your location, on a long trip by interstate highway, it’s possible for your mind to wander, losing track of where you are. In an emergency, not being sure of your location could delay the response of public safety personnel. Never allow yourself to become involved in a road rage incident. Common courtesy should prevail. Should someone make rude gestures or shout obscene things at you, don’t escalate the situation by responding in kind. The other person may respond with violence. If you think your safety may be jeopardy contact the local authorities.

At airports, train stations, and bus depots never leave your bags unattended, someone may be intent on taking them. Consider that someone bumping into you or starting a conversation may be a distraction. Keep your tickets in a safe place such as an inside breast pocket. Travel belts and pouches are available that hold valuables and are worn under regular clothes. Don’t display expensive jewelry or watches. Consider a cheap watch for traveling that will not attract unwanted attention.

If you own a cell phone bring it. Consider the strength and duration of the battery prior to your departure. While making calls, you have an obligation to be safe, don’t drive in New Jersey while using your cell phone, it is unlawful, and it is banned in other jurisdictions as well. Remember a cell phone will allow you to contact local authorities in an emergency. The cell phone is a vital communications link, but not a panacea. It should never be used for idle chit-chat while operation a motor vehicle. Be safe, if you have a passenger designate them as the communications commander.

If your health depends on prescription medication consider that in your planning. What would be the consequences if you were separated from the medication? Could you be isolated by inclement weather? Does anyone know where you are? Plan accordingly! In the same vein, many experienced travelers bring an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses. We hope all of you have a safe and enjoyable vacation season!

This year, when planning your Halloween celebration, consider the age and maturity level of your children when deciding what activity you will allow them to participate in. Obviously young children need to be accompanied by an adult, but so do may pre-teens and teenagers that are less mature. If you do allow a teen to participate in Halloween fun with out you, make sure you know who he or she will be with. Ask yourself: Do I know that friend?; is that friend a leader or follower?; does he or she make sound decisions?; are they prone to horseplay?. Remember a good kid can go off the straight and narrow when in the company of others teens that may make poor decisions.

Consider planning a party or participating in a costume parade rather then the traditional door-to-door trick or treating. Many communities have encouraged these alternatives as safe and adult regulated activities. The danger of contact with anti-social deviants is reduced, although never eliminated. Some communities have even banned trick or treating or enacted ordinances, proclamations, or resolutions restricting trick or treating. Check with your local municipal police department for details.

If you do allow door-to-door trick-or-treating make sure the children are in the company of an adult. Only the most mature, responsible teens should ever be allowed to trick or treat without an adult present. Someone in the group should have a cell phone in case of an emergency. Flashlights should also be a mandatory item. Never allow children to enter a stranger’s residence, and make sure they don’t consume any treats until you or another trusted adult has had the chance to inspect the items, and under good lighting!

Have them avoid homes where they do not know the residents; where there is no lighting; or anywhere something causes them to feel uncomfortable. You may want to consider asking them if they know of any bullies that may be lurking in the neighborhood.

Costumes are fun, but also can be dangerous. If you buy a costume make sure it is flame retardant. Make sure the eye holes in any mask are adequate so that the child can see, often the masks come with very small eye holes, consider makeup, hats and wigs instead of masks. Make sure the costume is not too long, and could contribute to the child tripping or falling. Make sure they dress appropriately for the temperature, young ones often make poor judgment calls concerning dressing warm, especially if it might impact their costume. Consider reflective markings so that motorists have adequate warning of a child running across the street to keep up with friends or to get to the house giving out the best prizes.

Around your own home make sure there is adequate lighting so that all children can see where they are walking. Accidents happen, especially around Halloween style candles in or outside of pumpkins. Candles present very real fire risks, especially around young children and immature teens, consider low voltage lighting instead. Never invite an unknown child into your house unless they are in need of emergency assistance.

While there are healthy alternatives to candy, consider only giving out something that is sealed and can be easily determined to be tamper free. Use common sense; exercise prudence and caution; and make the safety of our youth the number one priority this Halloween!

The safety of children in and around automobiles is the concern of all parents, and as children come of school age it also becomes a priority of school administrators and local police departments. From the beginning children should be secured in approved child safety seats, it’s the law in nearly all states, including New Jersey. Recently Consumer Reports did a review of child safety seats in the February and October 2007 editions of the monthly publication. If you are in the market to purchase one, you may want to review the articles for recommendations.

Once the seat is purchased, it must be installed correctly to protect the child. In New Jersey motor vehicle law requires children eight years and under and children under eighty pounds to be secured in a child passenger restraint system or “booster seat”.

If the vehicle has rear seats, the child is required to be in the rear seat area. In New Jersey some police departments now have officers that have received advanced training designating them as certified child safety seat technicians. If you are a resident of North Plainfield, you may schedule an appointment with Detective Fowler or Officer Weber. Check with your local police department to see if they have such a program. The officer may be able to schedule an appointment where your new seat can be properly installed; or your existing seat can be checked to ensure that it has been properly installed.

As children grow, encourage safe habits such as crossing only in designated crossing walks and following pedestrian crossing signals. In residential and rural areas make sure they understand to look both ways before crossing streets, or going in the street to retrieve an errant ball. As they enter the school years, your example and direction will continue to be critical. When dropping off and picking up children at school do so only in designated areas. Most schools have designated traffic safety plans to ensure the safety of children. If you are unsure, check with the transportation coordinator; principal’s office; Parent/Teacher Association; School Resource Officer or the traffic safety unit at your local police department.

Improperly discharging and picking up children is against the law, punishable with a summons. New Jersey motor vehicle law forbids the discharge or pickup of passengers from anywhere other then the curb or side of the road. This is a dangerous practice, but it is especially dangerous when done with young school age children. Parents may be tempted to do this to save time or reduce the walk to the school door in inclement weather by letting off children while stopped in traffic. The danger of having a child exit a vehicle in traffic and then weave through the vehicles on foot is just never worth the risk. Small children may be unseen, and may be easily distracted by friends.

Not to be forgotten is the safety of teens. Once children are in high school they may be offered or request rides from other students and friends. Find out who the driver is and ask yourself if you are comfortable with your child being in a vehicle driven by that young man or lady. Newspaper headlines constantly remind us of the tragedies that can occur when young inexperienced drivers are distracted or preoccupied with cell phones.