Protect your home against springtime crimes
As the much anticipated warmer weather approaches and folks begin the process of airing out their homes and working in their yards, the Minneapolis Police Department reminds all residents to harden their home against springtime crimes of opportunity.
Each year the MPD sees a rise in burglaries and thefts because of open windows and doors, as well as thefts from yards and garages.
Some common sense tips to help prevent becoming a victim include:
- Pinning windows so that they open only far enough to allow air in but not far enough to allow a burglar to use them to gain entry to your home. Six inches is recommended.
- When working in the backyard remember to secure the front door. Some burglars are brave and fast enough to enter your home and make off with valuables before you know they have even been there.
- Don’t leave garage doors open even for a few minutes. The visible items stored there make a very tempting target to someone passing by.
- Don’t leave valuable items such as bicycles and lawn equipment in your yard, especially overnight.
- Beware of the influx of door to door salesman and home repair contractors. Do your homework before hiring anyone to do work on your home and get a written estimate before work begins. And remember that all door-to-door salesmen must be licensed by the City.
- Report suspicious activity in your neighborhood to 911 immediately. Waiting will most likely take away the opportunity for officers to contact the person you are calling about. A number of home burglars have been caught as a result of neighbors immediately calling 911.
- Never allow someone you don’t know into your home. Common ruses used to gain entry are requests to use a phone or to get a drink of water.
- For more information about crime prevention contact your Crime Prevention Specialist.
For more information about Crime Prevention Tips see the MPD website at Crime Prevention Resources.
Published Apr. 13, 2011