One of the main functions of the Bedford Police Department is the deterrence and prevention of criminal activity. However, there are some precautionary measures that should be taken in order to minimize the potential of becoming a victim yourself.
•When leaving your home or vehicle unattended, even if only for a short period of time, make sure to close and lock all doors and windows, including garage doors. Many criminals are opportunists and it only takes moments for them to strike, especially if there is no security on your property.
•If you have a home alarm system, make sure to use it. In the event that your house is burglarized, your alarm company will contact the Bedford Police Department immediately, at which time police officers will be sent to your residence to ensure that your personal belongings are safe and sound.
•If you don’t have a home alarm system, consider getting one installed. There are several alarm companies out there and they offer different services at different prices. The installation of a home alarm system may also reduce the cost of your homeowners insurance.
•If your house is going to be unattended for an extended period of time, be sure to use our free dark house service.
•When in a public area, NEVER leave your personal property, such as handbags, cell phones, wallets, keys, etc. unattended.
•Even if your vehicle is locked, do not leave valuable property visible to passers by. Again, this takes the guess work out of breaking into vehicles for criminals, since the valuable items are in plain sight. While on patrol, members of the Bedford Police Department will conduct “Operation Open Door” details, in which they check for the visibility of valuable or frequently stolen property in vehicles. In the event that anything is observed, a notice stating such will be left on the windshield of that vehicle for the owner.
•Regarding identity theft, there is a separate page dedicated to prevention and detection, found here.
•“If you see something, say something” does not only apply to potential terrorist activities, it applies to anything criminal. If you see something or someone that appears suspicious to you, don’t hesitate to call the Bedford Police Desk at 914-241-3111 or in the case of an emergency, dial 911.
•Follow the Bedford Police Department on Facebook / Twitter / Nixle to get the most updated information of any criminal activity in the area and ways to protect yourself, your family and your home.