The Bergen County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has been diligently working on several new initiatives for residents of Bergen County and one of those initiatives is the launch of the new BCSO app.
Compatible with Apple and Android devices, this app will share important information, safety and weather alerts, state and county announcements and even foreclosure notifications, while giving users access to the many divisions and departments connected to the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office.
Some of the app’s features include a navigational tool to all the different divisions in the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, a tip line, links for community outreach and so much more. It’s a free download that puts the Bergen County Sheriff’s Department right at your fingertips.
Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton explained, “The BCSO App is a particularly powerful tool that can significantly enhance safety and security measures for houses of worship and other sectarian institutions in Bergen County.”
When users opt in for push notifications, they can expect to receive alerts regarding potential threats or security concerns. “Information is power and with present day technology, the quicker information is shared, the quicker it can assist in the deterrence of threats,” he explained. “Knowing what to look for is information that can be provided to my office, as well as other law enforcement agencies. For example, if information is received about a suspicious person, the instant notification could provide information, such as a clothing description or the type of vehicle being driven.” This allows law enforcement and other agencies to get messaging out quicker and expedite response times. “The BCSO app serves as a valuable tool for enhancing the safety and security of all our citizens by providing real-time alerts and facilitating better communication between the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office and the public.”
Cureton highly recommends all residents download the app so that they will always have instant access to critical information, including emergency alerts, severe weather warnings and updates from the Sheriff’s office. “We integrate it with our social media platforms to ensure that critical information reaches a wider audience.” It is a proactive step that residents can take to enhance their safety, stay informed about important developments in their communities, and actively participate in efforts to maintain public safety and security.
Cureton also explained that the BCSO app offers several unique features and benefits that set it apart from traditional protocols and procedures used by law enforcement. “Typically, our citizens look to major media for information and /or call a law enforcement agency. Through the app’s weather alerts, residents have adequate time to prepare for adverse conditions and are able to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.”
The BCSO app also fosters greater community engagement by providing citizens with a direct channel to the Sheriff’s office and enabling them to stay informed, report concerns and participate in efforts to enhance public safety.
The Bergen County Sheriff’s Department is also hard at work implementing a unique faith-based initiative by providing increased patrols at sensitive locations, such as houses of worship and schools of all faiths. This is just one initiative that is part of a larger program of faith-based initiatives that the Bergen County Sheriff’s Department is rolling out this year to let the community know it is there for them and to let residents know about the many resources at their disposal.
Following these daily surveillance checks, if no administrators are present when the police stop by, a tag will be left on the door of the building to indicate the time the patrol was conducted. On the bottom of this sign, there will be a QR code so administrators at these houses of worship can register their organization or institution and enter all pertinent information into a database. In the event of an emergency, threatening situation or any other type of significant incident, residents can receive a real-time notification and take appropriate action as necessary.
Recognizing how things have changed since October 7, Cureton shared the following:
“I want to extend a heartfelt message of unity, harmony and support to all members of our diverse communities in Bergen County. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in acts of violence against houses of worship and religious institutions. I understand the importance of ensuring the safety and security of our sacred spaces. Your safety and well-being are paramount, and it is my top priority to work collaboratively with you, to protect our communities and their cherished institutions. The Bergen County Sheriff’s office stands ready to support you and help whenever needed. The Sheriff’s app can make this a little easier. Together, we can ensure that Bergen County remains a place where everyone feels safe, respected and valued.”
To download the BCSO app, visit the App and Android stores. To learn more about the app, email [email protected] or call 201-336-3450. To find out how to access all the resources available from the Bergen County Sheriff’s Department, visit www.bcsd.us
