Please click on the topic links below to read important information from the Police Department.
Alcohol Poisoning - It is a Local Problem - 2010 Update
Be the "Eyes" of the Neighborhood
Bear Facts for Homeowners
Bicycle Helmet Law in New Jersey
Bicycle Safety
Burglar and Fire Alarm Registration
Child Passenger Safety
Drinking and Driving: A Deadly Problem
Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.)
General Guidelines for Managing Credit Card Fraud or Identity Theft
Hear It! See It! Report It!
Homeowner Safety Tips
House Numbers Should be Displayed Clearly
It's the Law - Motorists Must Yield to Pedestrians in Crosswalks
Keeping Your Home Safe While on Vacation
Keeping Hydrants Clear of Snow
Motorist Alert - School Recesses for Summer - More Children at Play
Motorist/Parent Alert - Children at Play
911 - For Emergency Use Only
No Overnight Parking in Wyckoff
Pandemic Planning
Parental Supervision and Responsibility
Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrian Safety for Walkers and Joggers
Penalties for Parents who Allow Underage Drinking at their Homes
Personal Safety Tips
Public Safety: Everyone's Responsibility
Repair Scams
Safety on the 'Net
Sexual Assault Prevention and Protection
Solicitors
Speed Limits are not an Entitlement to Drive at the Posted Speed Limit
Teenage Parties
Those Who Host - Lose the Most..Parents Encouraged to Take a Pro-Active Approach
Using Cell Phones While Driving
What to do if You Lose Your Purse or Wallet
Who Has the Right-of-Way
Yield to Emergency Vehicles
Your Actions Have Consequences - Fake ID
Synthetic Marijuana
BE THE "EYES" OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Wyckoff Police Chief John Ydo has sent out an urgent message to township residents stressing how important it is for us to "Hear It! See It! Report It!" In other words, if you are suspicious about anything that you feel is out of the ordinary in your neighborhood, contact the police immediately. And attempt to obtain as much information as you can to relay to police, including a description of the person(s), a vehicle description, license plate number, and direction of travel.
According to Ydo, you should be aware that burglars have become more sophisticated. They prefer to use fast, expensive cars, they tend to dress neatly, and they appear to fit into the areas they are casing. A burglar may ring a doorbell to see if someone is at home. If you answer the door, the person will act lost or ask for a non-existent person or address. Even if your home is alarmed, burglars tend to target the master bedroom and can be in and out of a home in a matter of minutes.
Residents should also be aware of criminals posing as utility workers or delivery persons. All utility employees will have proper identification and will not be offended if you ask to see their credentials. Ydo cautions residents to be wary of unscheduled visits by utility workers or delivery persons with unexpected packages. If you have any doubts, report it.
BICYCLE HELMET LAW OF NEW JERSEY
New Jersey state law requires that children under the age of seventeen wear an approved bicycle helmet while riding a bicycle. The law also applies to any child in a restraining seat which is attached to the bicycle or in a trailer being towed by a bicycle.
According to the New Jersey Head Injury Association, forty percent of all bike deaths involve children fourteen and under. Bike helmets reduce the risk of head injury by eighty-five percent and the risk of brain injury by ninety percent.
A youngster who violates this requirement shall be warned of the violation and the parent or legal guardian of that person may be fined up to $25 for the first offense, and up to $100 for a subsequent offense.
Parent Tips for Buying Helmets:
- Take your child with you to make sure the helmet fits properly.
- The helmet should fit snugly, but comfortably, with the straps adjusted properly the helmet should not rock from side to side.
- Check the helmet for approval from the "Snell Foundation" or the "American National Standards Institute" (ANSI).
- Convince your child how important the helmet can be to his or her safety and insist they wear them.
- Set a good example by wearing your own helmet when bicycling.
Police Chief John Ydo would like to remind everyone of the following bicycle safety reminders.
- Always wear an approved bicycle safety helmet. Protect your head from serious injury by wearing a helmet when riding. All riders under the age of 17 are required by law to wear a helmet.
- Stop and check for traffic before you enter a street from a driveway, parking lot or sidewalk.
- Avoid riding after dark or if the weather is bad. All cyclists are at risk during the hours of darkness.
- Obey traffic signs, signals and pavement markings. Obeying the law can keep you out of many hazardous driving situations.
- Drive on the right-hand side of the street. Move with the flow of traffic.
- Be extra careful turning left. Vehicles approaching or following you don’t expect you to go left and often don’t see left-turning cyclists.
- Slow down, when you approach intersections; stop, look and listen at stop signs. Walk your bike across busy intersections and streets.
- Give cars and pedestrians the right-of-way. It’s an act of courtesy and it is safer too.
- Avoid broken pavement, litter, loose gravel, mud, or leaves. Any of these can cause you lose control of your bike.
- Help other drivers to see you. Wear light or brightly colored cloths. A “Day-Glow” flag on a 6-foot flexible staff on your bike warns motorists of your presence.
- On streets where cars are parked watch for car doors opening into the roadway.
- When riding with a group, form a single line, one bike length apart, on the right-hand side of the roadway.
- Carry packages in a basket, carrier or back-pack and keep both hands on the handlebars.
- Keep you bike in good repair. Check and adjust loose parts and tire pressure weekly. Clean and lightly oil moving parts regularly. Store your bike indoors if possible.
- Don’t take chances. Watch what is going on around you.
BURGLAR AND FIRE ALARM REGISTRATION
The Wyckoff Township Committee and the Wyckoff Police Chief Benjamin Fox wish to remind residents and business owners that Township ordinance requires that the occupant of any business or resident in the Township must register any burglar or fire alarm for the premise.
Each year, the Wyckoff Police respond to over 1,000 false alarms, and the ordinance that requires the alarm to be registered is designed to reduce the number of such false alarms. This is done, in part, by better control over faulty or inferior alarm equipment. As a result, the Wyckoff Police Department will be able to serve alarm users more efficiently and effectively.
After registering the alarm with the Police Department, the occupant is assigned a code number that serves as a private communication between the occupant and the police. In addition, the Police Department maintains a listing of emergency contacts for each registered alarm, in the event that access must be gained to the premises due to an emergency.
The ordinance provides for a fine of up to $200 for failing to register an alarm, and there are also penalties for excessive numbers of false alarms during a calendar year.
Chief Fox advises that if your alarm is not registered, to please contact police headquarters and obtain an alarm registration form. There are no penalties for registering a previously unregistered alarm.
An annual alarm registration fee for "direct dialers" to police headquarters is $15. Although no alarm registration fee is charged for central station alarms or local house alarms. they are required to be registered with the Police Department. A resident or business owner with a question concerning alarm registration can call Police headquarters at 201-891-2121.
New Jersey adopted the new Child Passenger Safety Law which went into effect December 1, 2001.
All drivers and their passengers are required to wear seat belts when riding in a motor vehicle. It is the drivers responsibility to ensure that all passengers under 18 are properly restrained. This means that each occupant must have their own seat belt and harness.
Many parents are often caught up with busy schedules transporting children to school, sporting events, etc. Quite often parents car pool with other parents. This can help in many ways but should not jeopardize the safety of our children along the way.
It was recently reported to police that a mother, obviously pressured for time, was car pooling several children to an event. It was just as obvious that the vehicle was overloaded with children and most were not in restraints. When confronted with this by another motorist concerned with child safety the reply was less than kind or appreciative. Why wasn't this mother more safety conscious? Are you?
Taking the time to be safe you can prevent serious injuries and even death. Children follow the example of their parents. The lessons you teach your children today could save them from injury later on in life.
If you drive other children in your car, insist that each child "buckle up". If your child is traveling with someone else insist that they have your child "buckled up".
NJ Law requires:
Infants up to 20 pounds and one year of age must be secured in the back seat of a motor vehicle in a federally-approved rear-facing infant or convertible car seat. (Many newer convertible seats are approved for rear-facing use up to 30-35 pounds.) If the motor vehicle doesn't have a back seat, the infant must be secured in the front seat of the vehicle in the same rear-facing manner. A rear-facing car seat, however, should NEVER be installed in the front seat of a motor vehicle equipped with an active airbag. Prior to installing a rear-facing car seat, the airbag must be switched to off (if the vehicle is equipped with an on/off switch) or permission to deactivate the airbag must be obtained from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Additionally, the front seat should be pushed back as far as possible.
Children between 20 and 40 pounds (applies to most children between one and four years of age) must be secured in the back seat of a motor vehicle in a federally-approved convertible car seat or a booster seat (with a five point harness system). The child must be facing forward in an upright position. If there's no back seat in the motor vehicle, the child must be secured in the front seat of the vehicle in the same forward facing manner, with the vehicle's seat pushed back as far as possible.
Children between 40 and 80 pounds (applies to most children between four and eight years of age) must be secured in the back seat of a motor vehicle in a federally-approved booster seat using the lap and shoulder belt. If there's no back seat in the motor vehicle, the child must be secured in the front seat in the same manner as the back, with the vehicle's seat pushed back as far as possible.
All passengers under 18 years of age (but older than 8 years of age and weighing more than 80 pounds) are required to wear a seat belt when riding anywhere in a motor vehicle. Children under 12 should ride in the back seat of a motor vehicle - the safest place - whenever possible.
All drivers and their passengers are required to wear seat belts when riding in a motor vehicle. It's the driver's responsibility to ensure that all passengers under 18 are properly restrained.
Safety is everyone's responsibility. Taking the time to be safe may prevent you from paying fines and/or spare you the liability if someone is injured while driving in your car.
Residents with questions about the seat belt law or who wish to schedule a child safety seat inspection may contact Traffic Safety Officer Sgt. Ken Brown at 201-891-2121.
Fastening your safety belt should be as automatic as turning on the ignition. Buckle up every time you drive. Before you realize it, this habit will become subconscious and automatic. Developing this simple habit may extend your life.
In New Jersey, as in all other states, safety belt use is mandatory.
Who is responsible and subject to a fine?
- The driver is responsible for any passenger under the age of 18.
- Passengers 18 and over are responsible for themselves.
Consider These Facts:
- Your chances of surviving a motor vehicle crash is improved by 60% simply by taking the time to buckle up.
- Most fatalities occur at speeds under 40 mph and within 25 miles of home.
- For your protection, the Police Department enforces the safety belt law and will issue summonses for violations.
- Be smart . . . get in the habit . . . buckle up and enjoy life!
DRINKING AND DRIVING: A DEADLY PROBLEM
Statistics show that every 20 minutes a driver is involved in an alcohol related accident. Alcohol contributes to more than half of all traffic fatalities and claims about 25,000 lives each year on American roads.
For all Americans between 5 and 35 years old, vehicle accidents are the number one cause of death. Over 50% of these deaths are caused by drunken or drugged drivers.
The Township of Wyckoff Police Department is diligent in its enforcement of drinking and driving laws and participates in a DWI task force in cooperation with the Bergen County Prosecutors Office. In addition to the Police Department's roving patrol, they also set up check points from time to time in an effort to discourage drivers from driving while intoxicated with alcohol or drugs. The average drunk driver arrested has a 0.20 blood alcohol concentration level, double the level for intoxication in New Jersey.
The following are the fines and penalties for any person who operates a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
Drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.8% or higher but less than 0.10% are subject to the following:
1st Offense
- $250 to $400 fine plus additional surcharges
- Mandatory participation in the Intoxicated Drivers Resource Center program for 12 to 48 hours
- In the court's discretion, imprisonment not exceeding 30 days
- Suspension of driver's license for 3 months
Drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.10% or higher are subject to the following:
1st Offense
- $300 to $500 fine plus additional surcharges
- Mandatory participation in the Intoxicated Drivers Resource Center program for 12 to 48 hours
- In the court's discretion, imprisonment not exceeding 30 days
- Suspension of driver's license for not less than 7 months nor more than 1 year
For drivers convicted of a 2nd Offense the penalties are as follows:
- $500 to $1000 fine plus surcharges
- Imprisonment of not less than 48 consecutive hours, which shall not be suspended or served on probation, nor more than 90 days
- Driver's license suspension for 2 years
- Community service for 30 days
3rd or Subsequent Offense:
- $1000 fine plus surcharges
- Imprisonment not less than 180 days in county jail or workhouse, or at the discretion of the court defendant may serve up to 90 days of the sentence in an alcohol inpatient rehabilitation program
- Driver's license suspension for 10 years
- Court may also order community service
Parent's responsibility for teenage drinking:
- Do not allow teenage drinking or drug use in your home or on your property.
- When you are away, take necessary steps to prevent your home from being used for illegal drinking or drug use.
- For more information or to designate your home as a Safe Home contact:
Student Assistant Coordinators
Ramapo
Matt Kolhbrenner 201-891-1500 ext. 2268 mkolhbrenner@rih.org
Indian Hills
Tom Kersting 201-337-0100 ext. 3368 tkersting@rih.org
Be a responsible host:
When you invite others to your home, you have a responsibility for their safety. If you serve alcoholic beverages to guests in your home what can you do to keep things from getting out of hand? Here are a few suggestions:
- Don't hesitate to suggest to a guest who will be driving that they should be careful about drinking any alcoholic beverages.
- Limit the amount of alcohol served.
- Offer non-alcoholic beverages as well.
- Have food or snacks available. Food slows the absorption of alcohol.
- Don't encourage others to drink alcohol.
- If someone has had too much to drink, then by all means do not allow them to drive. Make some other arrangements for them to get home safely.
Remember: The Wyckoff Police are vigilant and well-trained in the enforcement of drunken driving laws. In Wyckoff, there is a 99% conviction rate for arrested drunk drivers. The safest rule to follow is - IF YOU DRIVE, DON'T DRINK; IF YOU DRINK, DON'T DRIVE.
DRUG ABUSE RESISTANCE EDUCATION D.A.R.E.
Eight Ways to Say No!
- Say "No Thanks"
- Give an excuse or reason
- The broken record approach
- Walk away
- Change the subject
- Avoid the situation
- Give the "cold shoulder"
- Strength in numbers associate with others who do not use drugs
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR MANAGING A CREDIT CARD FRAUD OR IDENTITY THEFT
Phone calls to make immediately:
The credit company of any specific card number being used. (Found on most recent bill).
In case of fraud:
- Equifax - 800-525-6285
- TRW/Experian - 888-397-3742
- Trans Union 800-680-7289 or 800-916-8800
- Federal Trade Commission (optional) 877-438-4338
Follow up in writing, including copy of police report:
- Equifax - P.O. Box 740250, Atlanta, Georgia 30374
- TRW/Experian, P.O. Box 1017, Allen, Texas 75013
- Trans Union, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, California 92634
If Social Security Number or Drivers License have been stolen:
- New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicles - 609-292-6500
- Social Security Administration - 800-772-1213
Victims of identity theft can order a copy of their credit report free of charge:
- Equifax - 800-658-1111
- TRW/Experian 888-397-3742
- Trans Union - 800-888-4213
Document in a log each call you make and include:
Date, time, with whom you spoke, and alert or confirmation number
Notify your bank of the situation, if appropriate.
Criminals who steal identities are quick to act and use your stolen identity. As a victim you must be as diligent as the criminal - report any such incidents to the police immediately and follow their advice. Your quick actions could save you the heartache of undoing the damage caused by some criminals spending spree and may even assist in capturing the culprit.
The Wyckoff Police Department would like to remind every one that with the holidays upon us, we need to keep in mind some general and basic Home Security practices. Nationally, burglars enter a house, apartment or condominium every 15 seconds. Do not let your home become another statistic. Burglars look for what we call " targets of opportunity" - in other words, easy pickings.
- To protect yourself, make your home look occupied when you are away. Chances are, thieves will not burglarize your home if they think you are there. One way to accomplish this is to depend on a trustworthy neighbor while you are gone. Here are some specific measures you can take to help protect your personal belongings.
- Keep track of your keys. Do not leave a key under your doormat, flower pot or on a window ledge. Burglars look there first. Never leave an ignition key in your car, and never put a house key on your ignition key ring.
- Keep garage doors closed and locked. Even when you are home, a locked garage door helps protect valuable property stored in your garage. If you are to be gone for any length of time, consider disconnecting electric door openers and putting a padlock on the garage door track.
- Park a car in the driveway. If you have a second car, leave it in the driveway if you do not, ask a neighbor to park there. To help avoid vandalism to the vehicle and the appearance that no one is home, be sure the car is moved periodically.
- Do not let deliveries accumulate. Have a neighbor pickup mail, newspapers, packages, and circulars daily. If that is not possible, have all deliveries stopped so they do not pile up.
- Have your driveway and walks taken care of. When it snows, shoveled driveways and walks give the appearance that some one is home. Make arrangements if needed, to have this taken care of if you're away.
- Keep shrubbery trimmed. Thick, tall shrubbery provides cover for burglars and lets them work undetected.
- Leave a radio on. If you will be gone for extended periods, you may want to leave a radio playing, or even connect a television to a timer so that it goes on and off at different times.
- Secure all doors and windows. Make sure all doors are properly secured and locked.
- Get automatic timers. Interior and exterior lights are one of the best visual deterrents to protect your property. Timers add an extra benefit of programmability.
- Adjust the volume of your telephone ringer. By turning it to the lowest level, or even off, a prowler will be less likely to hear an unanswered call. If you have an answering machine, be sure the message does not let anyone know you are not home.
The Wyckoff Police department wants to remind our residents that we provide home security surveys free of charge and can help you with making your home and property a safer place.
For a free survey, contact the Crime Prevention Unit at 201-891-2121.
There are many things that homeowners can do to protect their property. There are locks and alarms and tips to make our homes appear occupied when we are away. One of the best ways to prevent burglaries is to be aware and alert. Police Chief Ydo suggests the following guidelines.
- Get to know your neighbors and become a partner in watching the activities in your neighborhood.
- Be suspicious. Report unusual or suspicious behavior to the police immediately. Write down descriptions of persons and license plate numbers of vehicles involved.
- Be aware of strangers, young or old, male or female, who ring the doorbell and ask vague or strange questions.
- Be wary of persons who seek information about you or your neighbors. Notify police of these incidents and of any unusual telephone calls.
- Inform a trusted neighbor if your house will be unoccupied for a period of time.
- Look after your neighbor's home when they are away and ask them to look after yours.
- Establish and attend meetings with your local crime prevention officer. Find out what you can do about local crime.
- Above all, be concerned! It's the most effective way to reduce or prevent crime and make your neighborhood safe.
HOUSE NUMBERS SHOULD BE DISPLAYED CLEARLY
Police Chief Fox requests that all residents assist the emergency services by conspicuously displaying house numbers. Seconds count in an emergency and easily read house numbers assist the emergency services when responding to a call for help.
In case of an emergency, it is important that house numbers are large and easily read so that police, fire or ambulance personnel can locate your house as quickly as possible.
Township Ordinance 96-3 requires that every building shall have its number conspicuously displayed on the street side of the building at or near the main entrance of the building and house numbers shall not be less than three inches in height.
IT'S THE LAW - MOTORISTS MUST YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS IN CROSSWALKS
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Law requires that the driver of a vehicle must yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within a marked crosswalk, or at any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
Simply, this means that a driver must stop their vehicle and allow pedestrians to walk across the roadway at school and pedestrian crosswalks. Pedestrians must also use caution when crossing the roadway, as the law prohibits them from entering the roadway, and walking into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield.
The crosswalks are easy to recognize by the painted lines on the roadway and all school crossings and some pedestrian crossings have the black and lime green pentagonal shaped signs with a symbol of a person walking. These marked areas should signal to motorists that there are higher than normal pedestrian crossings at the location.
The Township of Wyckoff has won numerous awards over the years from the American Automobile Association for the efforts of the Township in the area of pedestrian safety, and Wyckoff continues to make pedestrian safety a top priority.
When driving through town, all motorists should yield to pedestrians and obey posted speed limits. Please remember that New Jersey Law also requires that the speed limit on local roads is 25 MPH unless otherwise posted.
KEEPING YOUR HOME SAFE WHILE ON VACATION
If you are going on a vacation or will be away from home for a few days, keep in mind the following home safety tips:
- Notify the Police Department that your house will be vacant for the duration of your vacation.
- Stop deliveries of mail or newspapers, or ask a friend to pick up deliveries while you are gone.
- Arrange to have the lawn mowed.
- Give your house a lived-in appearance.
- Put automatic timers on several lights and a radio. Set the timers so they will turn on and off at random times in different rooms.
- Do not leave notes indicating your absence.
- Shut and lock your garage door - an open garage door absent a car is an invitation to a burglar.
- Keep jewelry and other valuables in places other than the master bedroom. This is the first place a burglar looks.
- Have a neighbor park their car in your driveway.
- Ask a neighbor to use and put out your garbage cans.
- Secure all valuables.
- If, upon your return you see signs of a burglary, do not enter and call police from the nearest phone.
- Install an alarm system.
MOTORIST ALERT: SCHOOL RECESSES FOR SUMMER - MORE CHILDREN AT PLAY
In the month of June, school recesses and motorists will encounter more pedestrians and children. Summer brings longer hours of daylight and more children and pedestrians, bicyclists, skateboarders, rollerbladers and moped traffic to our roads. Motorists need to have a heightened sense of awareness and to remain alert to these situations and drive with caution.
Important Motorist Safety Reminders
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. It’s the Law!
- Always drive at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Refrain from drinking coffee/beverages and/or talking on a cell phone when driving unless you have a hands free telephone device.
- It’s the Law – every motorist must drive an appropriate reduced speed when approaching an intersection, a curve in the road or a hillcrest.
- It’s the Law – NJSA 39:4-98 requires every motorist to drive an appropriate reduced speed when nearing pedestrians and bicyclists.
- It’s the Law – the speed limit on all local roads is 25 mph unless otherwise posted.
- When encountering an emergency vehicle with siren and emergency lights activated, YIELD FULLY, as required by law, by pulling to the right hand edge of the roadway and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed and it is safe to resume.
- Headlights are required to be on, anytime windshield wipers are on.
- BE ALERT, drive with caution.
MOTORIST/PARENT ALERT - CHILDREN AT PLAY
After winter, we all welcome the return of warmer weather. Spring and summer bring longer hours of daylight and more children, pedestrians, bicycles, skateboards, rollerblading and moped traffic to our roadways.
Motorists should be alert to this situation and drive cautiously about town. The police traffic bureau suggests that because our streets maintain more and more automobile traffic, all bicyclists should wear an approved bicycle helmet. However, children under 14 years of age are required, by state law to wear approved helmets. To insure compliance, parents will be notified if their child's helmet is not being worn. In some cases a summons, answerable in municipal court, may be issued. Moped operators of any age are required to wear a helmet.
- Parents should also caution their children to follow safety practices throughout the year. The Police Department suggests:
- Parents should instruct their children to walk with friends when going to and from school and when at play. In addition, parents should insist that their children let them know where they will be at all times.
- Adults must caution children not to accept rides, candy or gifts from strangers. Instruct children to walk or run away and, if possible, obtain a license plate number and physical description of the person. Many children have learned techniques from the police in their school classes. Parents should continue this type of training by playing "what if" games with their children. Call the Wyckoff Police Department at 201-891-2121 if you require help or information in this area.
- All citizens should report the presence of suspicious persons or automobiles to the police. Only through citizen cooperation and assistance can the police be effective in providing necessary protection.
The Wyckoff Police Department would like to advise all residents concerning the proper use of the 911 emergency system. About 50% of 911 calls are classified as non-emergency calls. When non-emergency calls tie up 911 lines, real emergency calls may not get through. This creates a danger because response time is critical in an emergency. The Wyckoff Police communications desk at 201-891-2121 is staffed 24 hours a day. Calls of a business, non-emergency, or emergency nature can be received at this number. Some examples of when to use 911 include the following:
- When a life is in danger
- When you see a fire
- When a crime is being committed
- When Police, Fire, or an Ambulance is needed IMMEDIATELY
When calling 911 please:
- Remain calm
- Give the location of the emergency
- Explain the type of the emergency
- DON'T hang up until the dispatcher tells you to do so
The guidelines for 911 use are important. The current technology cannot always provide a location for callers using cell phones or phones connnected through a computer, therefore it is important for you to give your location. The Police, Fire and Ambulance are there to ensure our safety and prevent disasters. Following the guidelines will help us serve the community better during emergencies.
NO OVERNIGHT PARKING IN WYCKOFF
There is no overnight parking permitted in the Township of Wyckoff between the hours of 1:00 am and 5:00 am on any streets.
Signs are posted on streets entering the Township.
PARENTAL SUPERVISION & RESPONSIBILITY
Wyckoff Police Chief Benjamin Fox reminds residents of the need to exercise parental supervision of their children and to be involved in their children's lives, especially with school recessing for the summer.
Important points to remember are:
- Get to know the parents of your child's friends. Knowing what they do for a living is no criteria for allowing your children to build a friendship. Know their schedules, rules and level of supervision in and at their friend's home.
- Hold your kids accountable for their actions. Let them know there will be consequences if they are involved in inappropriate or improper behavior. Teach them responsibility.
- Listen to what they have to say without being judgmental or critical.
- Show interest in their interests.
- Spend time with your children - money and material goods cannot replace your personal attention.
- Maximize positive influences in their lives and minimize the negative influences and role models.
- Get to know your children.
- Listen to your kids-really listen. Hear what they are telling you.
- The highest percentage of teen sex takes place between the hours of 3-6 p.m. at the home of a friend or in your own home. Being home for them is crucial to prevention.
- Money, education and material goods do not prevent drug and alcohol abuse. Statistics show it increases the changes.
Today's children are forced to grow rapidly, in a rapidly changing world and need to find a stability which should be provided first from within their homes.
Police Chief Benjamin Fox reminds all pedestrians of the following pedestrian safety rules that should be followed. They are:
- Carry or wear something white or reflective if walking at night.
- Cross only at crosswalks.
- Before crossing any street be sure to look both ways and be sure the way is clear before crossing.
- Cross only on proper signal.
- Be especially watchful for turning cars.
- Never enter the roadway from between parked cars.
- Where there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side, facing traffic.
- When walking your pet be sure you have the animal on a short leash and under control at all times (animal may dart out in front of passing vehicles).
- Joggers should always wear something reflective, carry identification and notify someone of their intended route.
- Motorists should be alert and drive carefully around town.
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY FOR JOGGERS AND WALKERS
Summer time brings with it an increase in outdoor activities such as jogging and walking. These require greater interaction with traffic and participants must remember their obligation to traffic safety. Joggers and walkers can improve their own safety by:
- Using sidewalks rather than jogging/walking in the roadway.
- Where no sidewalk exists, pedestrians should walk on the extreme left side of the roadway facing approaching traffic. This allows the pedestrian to observe vehicles and take evasive action if necessary, not relying solely on the driver of the vehicle to identify potential hazards or conflicts.
- If walking on a roadway, pedestrians should walk single file, especially when vehicles approach. Due to other vehicles on the roadway, a driver may not feel able to move closer to the middle of the road to by-pass them.
- Wear reflective vests or accessories at night.
- Cross at crosswalks.
- Do not step into the roadway from between vehicles.
- Do not step into the roadway to cross, even if within a crosswalk, if approaching vehicles are so close that a driver could not safely yield.
- Pedestrians in a roadway not within a crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, must yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
- Plan walking or jogging routes away from high traffic or congested areas.
PENALTIES FOR PARENTS WHO ALLOW UNDERAGE DRINKING AT THEIR HOMES
Results of a survey of students conducted in the Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District regarding alcohol usage were just released. It is troubling to note that over 90% of the students in grades 9 to 12 who participated in the survey reported that alcohol is fairly easy or very easy to get. Not surprisingly, among those who reported trying alcohol the majority have used it at parties. But it is most distressing to learn that nearly 40% of the students tried alcohol at parties where the parents of the teen hosting the party were aware of the drinking. Almost half of the juniors responding said they used alcohol at a home party without the parents' knowledge. Nearly 50% of 11th and 12th graders who responded that they used alcohol reported that they couldn't remember what happened after drinking and about 35% reported passing out.
Please remember, the legal drinking age in New Jersey is 21. Parents providing alcohol for minors or allowing minors to consume alcohol at their homes are violating the criminal code. Fines up to $1000 and up to 6 months in jail can be imposed for this offense. Serving alcohol to minors also places significant liability on the parent.
As a parent, you have the most influence on your child's decisions about drinking. Preparing your teen for the challenges and decisions about alcohol consumption must begin before they are faced with these situations. Parents need to educate teens that their actions have serious consequences. Not only do statistics show that alcohol-related car crashes are the number one cause of death for persons between the ages of 14 and 22, but incidents of alcohol poisoning are not uncommon. The law holds parents responsible for these serious consequences when they allow underage drinking at their home.
Talk, talk, talk and talk some more with your teen about dealing with peer pressure, and discuss feasible ways to turn down alcohol and other drugs. Some of the things to discuss with your teen include: drinking at home or at friends parties and the consequences that will result. Set guidelines that they may attend only parties that will be supervised and where no alcohol will be served. Agree that they will never get into a car with a driver who has been drinking. Let your children know that they can always call you at anytime to pick them up, if they find themselves in difficult circumstances.
Get to know your teen's friends and their parents. Talking with their friend's parents will also help to reinforce the message. Let's keep our kids on the right track.
The Wyckoff Police Department has provided the list of suggestions below for personal safety. In many cases people become victims of crime because they inadvertently put themselves in danger. These suggestions may help deter crime:
- Keep car doors locked when you are travelling in it.
- Lock your car when you leave.
- Park and walk in well lit areas.
- Check car before getting in.
- If you think you are being followed, try to get back in to a store or other well lit public area.
PUBLIC SAFETY: EVERYONE'S RESPONSIBILITY
Some ordinances are designed to ensure a safe community for all our residents:
- View obstructions (Ord. 180-1). The owners and tenants of all property in the township are responsible for eliminating driver and pedestrian view obstructions caused by hedges, trees, and shrubs.
- Sidewalk impediments (Ord. 165-2). The owners and tenants of all property abutting a sidewalk are responsible for sidewalk repairs and for the clearing of all grass, weeds, snow, ice and other impediments to the sidewalk area.
- Alarm systems (Ord. 79-8). Alarm systems within homes and businesses must be registered with the Police Department.
- Alcoholic beverages (Ord. 146-6). It is unlawful for any person to possess or consume an alcoholic beverage in any park, playground or recreational area in the Township.
Police Chief Fox wants all residents to be aware that when the weather becomes pleasant, then soon the "repair scam artists" will follow. Keep the following in mind:
If someone wanted to take your money, how would they get it?
The common crook might try a robbery or a burglary. The con artist or cheat is after your money too. But they don't use a gun or physical force, they use fraud.
The Home Repair or Home Improvement Fraud:
Most con artists prey on senior citizens, who are most vulnerable.
Beware of the phoney "repairman" who offers to check your roof, chimney, gutters, furnace, etc. and tells you that something is seriously wrong and must be repaired immediately.
Beware of the contractor who claims to be working in the neighborhood and has materials left over and offers to repair or resurface your driveway, or perform some other home repair.
- Be suspicious of any repairman whom you did not call.
- Ask for identification. Legitimate repairmen and utility personnel will have proper identification and will not be offended if you ask to see it.
- Don't be pressured into paying cash or signing a contract.
- Before you agree to anything, discuss it with a family friend or relative or your lawyer.
- If you are suspicious or have questions about any repairmen or any strangers at or near your home, get a license plate number and a description of the vehicle and call the police immediately.
- Remember that you won't recognize a con artist or swindler by the way he or she looks. But they are usually experts in human psychology and behavior. They know how to win over your confidence with smooth talking and a self-assured manner.
- If you are offered a deal that sounds too good to be true, changes are that is just the case - it is too good to be true. It is probably a swindle - call the police at 201-891-2121.
SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION AND PROTECTION
Sexual assault is not a crime of passion, it is a crime of violence. Far from being impulsive behavior, most sexual assault is planned. It happens on streets, in homes, in parks and other places. The attacker has no regard for age, race or social status. The Wyckoff Police Department offers the following suggestions as a way of safeguarding yourself from becoming a victim.
Precautions for the Home:
- Have good locks on doors and keep them locked at all times.
- Never open a door to a stranger and require them to identify themselves satisfactorily. If you are at all suspicious, call the police immediately.
- Don't let a stranger (man or woman) inside your home to use the phone. Make the call for them or call the police to help.
- Have lights on timers in more than one room. Have them operational 24 hours.
- If you receive an obscene telephone call hang up, (and before receiving another call, pick up the receiver and listen for a dial tone). Push *57 if you have a 12-button push button set with Touch-tone service, if you have a rotary or pulse dialing phone dial 1157. Listen for the confirmation announcement and hang up. Make a note of the date and time of the call that you traced. Then call the police.
- If you return home and find a door or window has been forced or broken, do not enter, go to a neighbor and call police immediately.
- Do not keep jewelry and or valuables in the master bedroom.
Precautions While Driving:
- When practicable, travel on well-lighted and populated streets.
- Keep doors and windows locked.
- Never pick up hitchhikers.
- If you are being followed, drive to the nearest populated area or to the nearest police or fire station.
- If you are followed into your driveway and feel in danger, stay in your car, lock doors and sound horn to attract attention.
- Park in a well-lighted and populated area.
Precautions While Walking:
- Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
- Avoid shortcuts through parks, vacant lots or other deserted places.
- Always walk confidently and quickly, staying alert to your surroundings.
- If a driver stops to ask directions, avoid getting near the car. If you feel threatened, screm, and run in the direction opposite the car.
- Be aware of the people around you; be aware of your surroundings and the total environment.
Millions of people are now using the Internet to exchange e-mail, surf the World Wide Web, and participate in newsgroups and chat groups. Children can also benefit from the vast array of information that can be found on the Internet, but they can also be targets of crime and exploitation. Children need parental supervision and guidance to be sure that their experiences online are positive and productive.
Some of the risks children and teenagers can encounter online include:
- exposure to inappropriate material that is sexual, violent or hateful, as well as material which may encourage dangerous or illegal activities.
- encountering online predators who may try to set up a face-to-face meeting. In the past, pedophiles have used e-mail, bulletin boards or chat groups to befriend a child and then try to arrange an encounter.
- harassment from e-mail that is obscene or threatening.
- legal or financial risks in instances when a child may give out a parent's credit card number or other personal, financial information.
Parents can reduce the risks their children may face online by keeping an open line of communication. Sit down with your children and set some ground rules. Be open, supportive and as non-confrontational as possible. Children should know that they can feel free to confide in their parents about disturbing people or material they might come across online.
Some helpful rules for children and teenagers who go online include:
- Never give out personal information, such as name, home address, telephone number, or school name, without parental permission.
- Become familiar with the Internet and any online services your children use. Spend some time with your children and have them show you what they do while they are online. In this way, you can become familiar with all the things that can be done online, and you can try to recommend fun and educational sites to your children.
- Never allow children to arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone they meet online without parental permission. If you approve of such a meeting, make it in a public place, and be sure to accompany your child.
- Encourage your children to tell you if they encounter messages or bulletin board items that are suggestive obscene, belligerent, or threatening. If you or your child receive a message that is harassing or threatening, forward a copy of the message to your Internet Service Provider, and ask for their help. Tell your children not to click on any links that are sent via e-mail from people they don't know. These links often lead to sexually explicit or inappropriate web sites.
- Try to realize that people online may not be who they seem. Because you can't see the person it is easy for someone to misrepresent himself. For example, a 45-year-old man may be posing as a 12-year old girl.
- Do not respond to any offers that involve having someone visit your house, having a face-to-face meeting with someone, or sending money or credit information.
- Set reasonable rules for your child's computer use and discuss these rules with your child. Too much time spent using online services or the Internet may be a clue that there is a potential problem.
Finally, blocking and filtering programs, as well as web site ratings can be helpful in keeping children from wandering into areas of the Internet that may be inappropriate. Some filtering programs are SurfWatch, NetNanny, and CyberPatrol. America Online offers "Parental Controls" that can create a customized account for children, allowing them to receive e-mail only from people they know. Some search engines, such as Yahoo, Lycos and Ask Jeeves, also provide alternatives for children, in which a search will return only sites that have been rated as safe.
Homeowners should be informed of the procedures that solicitors must follow in the Township of Wyckoff. Most importantly, all solicitors are required to obtain a license from the Wyckoff Police Department. A homeowner should be able to see these licenses displayed by the solicitor. The hours permitted to conduct a house to house solicitation are between 9am and sunset.
If you do not want any solicitation at your home, simply post a sign stating that no solicitors are permitted on your property. All licensed solicitors are required to obey such notices.
SPEED LIMITS ARE NOT AN ENTITLEMENT TO DRIVE AT THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT
The speed limit signs say 35 mph. What does that really mean for drivers? As a driver are you entitled to travel at 35 mph? Not always! Sound judgment should come into play, not the gas pedal!
Drivers need to be aware of road conditions and other motorists on the road especially when approaching intersections. Frequently, distracted drivers may slow down instead of stopping at an intersection or they may disregard or not notice a stop sign and enter the roadway without looking. The law requires drivers (even motorists driving at the speed limit) to be prepared to slow down or stop. Title 39, the NJ Statute that regulates motor vehicle driving requires drivers to drive at an appropriate REDUCED speed when approaching an intersection and ten (10) other situations.
Wyckoff Police Chief Benjamin Fox reminds motorists that the NJ State Law NJSA 39:4-98 requires every motorist to drive at an appropriate reduced speed when:
- Approaching or crossing an intersection
- Approaching a railway grade crossing
- Approaching a curve
- Approaching a hill crest
- Traveling on any narrow or winding roadway
- Driving on snow, ice or wet pavement
- Nearing pedestrians or bicyclists
- Approaching traffic or any other hazardous conditions
It is also a good idea to reduce your speed in rainy weather or when the roads are snowy or icy. Remember, during the winter, it is especially important to watch for black ice.
Remember, common sense, sound judgment and awareness of our surroundings are some of the most important tools we bring with us when driving!
Every summer the Police Department receives a number of calls concerning teenage parties. The majority of these parties are held by teens whose parents are not at home. If you allow your teenager to have a party when you are not at home, please do the following:
- Insist that no alcohol be served. New Jersey statutes prohibit the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages by persons under the age of 21. In particular, New Jersey Statute 2C:33-17 makes the offering or serving or making available of alcoholic beverages to persons under the legal age (21) a criminal disorderly persons offense which is punishable by a fine of up to $1000 and up to six months in jail or both. The purpose of this law is to discourage the drinking of alcoholic beverages by persons under the legal age by placing more responsibility on adults who might otherwise encourage such behavior.
- Arrange for a neighbor to drop in at random to check on things.
- Tell your children that if unwanted guests arrive and refuse to leave, they should call the police department.
- Consider your potential criminal and civil liability if a party gets out of control. In addition, adults, homeowners and others who allow or provide alcoholic beverages, especially to minors, risk civil liability should accidents or injuries result from intoxication.
USING CELL PHONES WHILE DRIVING
Wyckoff Chief of Police Benjamin Fox informs residents that beginning March 1, 2008 it will be a primary motor vehicle offense to use a hand-held wireless telephone or electronic communication device while driving, including using these devices to send a text message.
Governor Corzine signed S-1099 into law on November 2, 2007. Specifically, the new law makes the use of a hand-held wireless telephone for talking or listening while driving, without the assistance of a hands-free device, a primary offense. The law also makes sending a text or an electronic message via a wireless phone or communication device a primary offense. Under the law, the fine for the violation of the new offense is $100. No motor vehicle points shall be assessed for this offense.
The operator of a motor vehicle may use a hand-held wireless telephone while driving with one hand on the steering wheel only if: 1) the operator has reason to fear for his life or safety; 2) the operator is using the telephone to report to authorities a fire, traffic accident, serious road hazard, medical or hazardous materials emergency and 3) the operator is reporting the reckless, careless or otherwise unsafe driving of another motorist.
The new law supersedes and preempts all ordinances of any county or municipality with regard to the use of a wireless telephone or electronic communication device by an operator of a motor vehicle.
Police Chief Fox reminds motorists to obey traffic laws and drive safely; they are for all of our benefit.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE YOUR PURSE OR WALLET
The first action you should take when you lose or have stolen your purse or wallet is to notify the police department in the jurisdiction of the loss or theft. You should also notify your local police department as well in order that they are aware of it. This will alert patrol officers to be extra vigilant of your home and could allow for greater investigative efficiency should a license, Social Security Card or credit card be recovered.
Once reported to the police, they can assist in advising what course of action you need to take. Various companies and agencies should be notified as well.
In this fast-paced, multi-tasking, time-crunched environment, it is not uncommon to try to shave a few minutes off of your trip to your next pickup, drop-off, sporting event or appointment. But just put down the phone, take a deep breath and remember courtesy and the rules of the road.
Wyckoff Police Chief Benjamin Fox reminds drivers about safe driving techniques. First and foremost always buckle up before beginning your trip. Be aware of the weather, road and traffic conditions as well as other drivers. In other words, be cognizant of what you are doing. Slow down when approaching an intersection, hilltop or curve in the road. Allow a pedestrian to cross the road. Yield to other drivers trying to make a turn or merge into a lane.
Here are some frequently asked questions about driving:
Q. Who has the Right-of-Way at an intersection?
A. When simultaneously approaching an intersection that does not have a traffic signal or a stop sign, the driver on the right has the Right-of-Way. Always yield to any driver at or in the intersection.
Q. Are you required to yield to pedestrians?
A. You must yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk or at an intersection.
Q. When making a left, are you required to yield?
A. A driver in the intersection intending to make a left turn must yield to vehicles approaching from the opposite direction that are close enough to constitute a hazard.
Remember the Right-of-Way is yours to give but not yours to take.
Our unique community is well served by its many neighbors who volunteer as emergency service volunteers on the volunteer Fire Department and volunteer Ambulance Corps. It is a love for community that takes much time and dedication and should be appreciated by all who live and work in this area.
We have all had the opportunity to be out on the road and see firsthand an emergency response in progress. The flashing blue lights on our volunteers’ cars and the red and blue flashing lights of actual emergency vehicles can be recognized as they respond to a fire, accident or other emergency. Not only is it a matter of courtesy to pull over, we have a legal responsibility to pull over. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Laws require that “the driver of every vehicle shall immediately drive to a position as near as possible and parallel to the right hand edge or curb…shall stop and remain until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.
So, when you are driving around Wyckoff and you hear the sound of sirens, alert yourself; you will probably see our volunteer firefighters or volunteer ambulance corps members responding to someone’s call for help in their time of need. Remember to yield to fire trucks, ambulances and police vehicles when they are responding to an emergency call as well.
Keep in mind that in an emergency response time is critical. While we may not all be able to serve as volunteer firefighters or volunteer ambulance corps members, we can provide a measure of assistance to our dedicated volunteers and police by pulling our car over to the side of the road and letting them pass. Such a small effort can mean precious seconds in the protection of life and property in someone’s time of need.
Remember, courtesy benefits us all.
POSSESSING AND USING FALSE ID TO BUY ALCOHOL IS A CRIMINAL MATTER THINK…YOUR ACTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES!
Wyckoff Police Chief Benjamin Fox would like to emphasize to young people that possessing or using false identification to purchase alcohol is a crime. Remember, a driver’s license is a government document and being convicted of having a fake ID or fraudulent document is a serious matter.
At 18, you are not old enough to purchase alcohol, but you are old enough to be arrested and have a criminal record.
Possessing a false ID document is a fourth degree offense and carries a fine of up to $10,000 and/or up to 18 months in jail. Using a false ID document is a third degree offense and carries a fine of up to $15,000 and/or between 3 years and 5 years in jail. Selling a false ID document or possessing the materials to make these documents is a second degree offense and carries a fine of up to $150,00 and between 5 and 10 years in jail.
In addition to the criminal penalties imposed upon conviction, there are serious future consequences young people should consider. Most college applications ask you to list any criminal convictions; you may be barred from entering some professions such as law enforcement, postal work, public transportation jobs, as well as many other professions.
Think again…it only takes a minute to make a decision that will impact your life. Considering the consequences, it’s not a risk worth taking