Crime Prevention

The Plainsboro Police Department works with citizens’ awareness associations and businesses to prevent crime before it occurs. The department offers several services and programs:

Home Security Tips

Is your home an easy target?

  • Front Entrance - Door should be metal clad or solid core wood construction. A deadlock, in addition to the key-in-the-knob is essential. Use a wide-angle viewer rather than a door chain to observe callers. A screen door or storm door offers additional protection if kept locked.
  • Ground Floor Windows - All ground floor windows should be kept closed and locked when you are away. Screen and storm windows should be securely fastened to the structure.
  • Upper Floor Windows - Keep your second floor secure by trimming tree branches away from the house to prevent climbing, and do not store ladders where a burglar can use them. Take the same precautions as with ground floor windows.
  • Basement Windows - Close and lock your basement windows. Treat the door from your basement into the main part of the house as an exterior door.
  • Garage Door - The garage door should be closed and locked. Make sure that you treat the entrance door from the garage to your house the same as any other door. A burglar in your garage can work on your house door undetected.
  • Porch and Patio Doors- Treat all exterior doors on the rear and sides of your home as probable targets for entry.
  • Yard Lights - Each exterior entrance, including the garage door, should be well lit. Post lights in your yard or floodlights mounted under the eaves to prevent blind spots where burglars can hide.
  • Interior Lights - When you are away from home, whether on vacation or just for the evening, keep some interior lights on. To create the appearance that someone is at home, use a timer to turn lights on and off at normal times. A radio playing adds to the illusion that the house is occupied.
  • Landscaping - When placing trees, bushes and flowers remember to keep doorways, windows and porches clear. Remember that the bushes that provide you with privacy also give a burglar a place to hide. Plan your landscaping with both privacy and security in mind.
  • Be Neighborly - Talk with your neighbors about your concern about burglary. Tell them what you are doing to protect your home. Ask them to report any suspicious persons or activities around your home to the police. Good neighbors make a safe neighborhood.

The Plainsboro Township Police Department offers free home security surveys to the community.