Home (burglary) and Auto Theft

Anytime you have a concern, it is best to immediately notify the police at 911 for an emergency or 914-271-5177 for non-emergency calls.  The police are here to help and cannot do so if you do not let them know of your concerns.  If your gut feels that something is not right, call the police.

• Always lock your home and auto, even if just leaving your home or car unattended for “a few minutes.”
• Never leave your unoccupied car running, even for a few minutes. On a side note, it is illegal to idle your car for more than three minutes in Croton.
• If you are home, lock doors and windows, when feasible.
• There are many security alarm companies, Ring brand doorbell type products, home camera systems etc.  Each home and car owner should do their own due diligence and speak with neighbors and friends for recommendations.
• Never leave valuables in plain sight in your car or in your home.  Do not leave your purse, car keys, wallet, etc. near an unlocked or open door or window in your car or home.
• Never open your door to a stranger.  Call out to unknown people through a window, preferably, an upstairs window. It also advisable to use your door camera / outside cameras to determine who is at your door, prior to opening it.  If you choose to speak with an unknown visitor, keep your ears alert for any unusual noises in your home.  Thieves have been known to distract you at your front door, while an accomplice breaks into your home through your back door. 
• While home or outside, keep your cell phone handy and call 911 if you have any concerns.  
• Never post on social media that you will be away.  When using social media to find a pet sitter, do not ask for pet sitters for specific dates.
• Never post vacation photos on social media until you are back home. 
• If you plan to be away on vacation, consider registering for the Croton Police Department’s “Dark House” program.  Patrol officers will be aware that you are away and will make an additional “drive by” of your home as time allows, along with checking on any suspicious persons or activity on your property while you are away.
• When away from home at nighttime or when away for an extended period, use devices which will automatically turn your lights on.  You might also use your phone to turn your lights on and off when away if your home is equipped for this.
• When going on vacation, put a hold on your mail and have any packages delivered to a trusted neighbor or friend.  Cancel all newspaper deliveries.
• When attending the funeral of a loved one, ask a family member, friend, or neighbor to stay in your home during the service. Burglars may check published obituaries to determine when someone might not be home.
• If you plan to have workmen, childcare, eldercare, etc. in your home, use reputable services and ask for references.  
• Never blindly trust workmen who come to your home offering to give you a discount because they are doing work in your neighborhood. 
• If you feel unsafe in your home with a workman or other person, quickly leave the premise and call 911 or if it’s not possible to leave, retreat to a room with a lock and call 911.  Do not attempt to confront anyone.
• Do not leave your car’s keyless fob in your car or if in your home, close to your car.  It might be possible to start the car and thieves can steal it. 
• If possible, always park your car in your garage and if you do not have a garage, park in a well-lit area.
• Always lock your bicycle and keep it out of view from the street.
• Always trust your gut.  If it feels wrong, it well could be.  Call 911 any time you feel uncomfortable. 

This article was written by members of the Police Advisory Committee as part of the Community Information Project.