DEMAREST — After a man forced his way into an Orchard Road residence and held a nanny at knifepoint, police are cautioning citizens to take proper precautions when answering their doors.

On Jan. 12 at 12:30 p.m., the 20-year-old nanny was babysitting a 3-year-old toddler, when the doorbell rang. As she opened the door, the armed man confronted her and forced his way into the single-family home. According to police, she said the intruder pressed her hands behind her back, forced her onto her knees and began to hike up her shirt.

The stranger soon after quickly fled the scene, but police are unsure of both the possible motives of the crime and sudden escape. Neither the nanny, nor the young toddler was injured.

Police have provided a description of the man who is said to be in his late 30s, 5-foot-10 to 6 feet tall, with a stocky build and black mustache. At the time of the break-in, he was wearing a dark colored jacket over an orange and brown checked shirt with an orange and brown checked hat.

Police did confirm that this is an isolated incident and it appears to be the first one of its kind in a while, said Police Chief James Powderley.

He noted that residents were highly concerned and some had even called his office looking for advice.

"The citizens should ensure the front door is locked, use caution when answering it and to report suspicious persons right away," said Powderley. "It’s better to be safe than sorry."

The police are encouraging residents to report these suspicions immediately, as timing and an immediate response from police is vital and could be the key to safety.

As for the isolated incident, the police are working on possible developments and the investigation is active. In addition to speaking with neighbors, the police are reviewing cameras in the neighborhood, along with digital video data.

The chief has assured the town and its residents that the police department is beefing up security by providing extra patrols in the area.