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The stranger ran off after spotting the Twins Brook Road homeowner on Monday, police said.
Moments earlier, he rang the front doorbell, Capt. Jason Cosgriff said.
When no one answered, he "walked around the side of the home to the rear yard carrying a tool" and then began looking into windows, he said.
"Surrounding jurisdictions have experienced similar events including daytime burglaries," Cosgriff said.
He offered some burglar-proofing tips:
• Lock doors and windows; police officers on patrol regularly find unsecured entrances;
• Update and use your alarm system -- and be sure to arm second-story windows;
• Leave interior and exterior lights on to make your home appear occupied;
• Leave a TV or radio on inside your home;
• Remove jewelry and valuables from the bedrooms -- it's the only place most burglars look before fleeing;
• Remove safes from the master bedroom and their closets;
• Lock any unoccupied vehicles and remove the key fobs;
• Remove mail and newspapers from your driveway the day they are delivered;
• Don't leave ladders or anything else someone can boost themselves with lying around;
• Keep shrubbery around doors and windows trimmed;
• Keep you house number cleared and lighted in case you have to call police.
Cosgriff also urged citizens to "report suspicious Individuals and activity immediately.
"Minutes matter when were trying to catch suspects. Don't delay your call."
You can dial 911 or call Saddle River police: (201) 327-5300.
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