The first step in preventing home burglaries is to lock all doors and windows. Yet, this simple action is unfortunately often disregarded or forgotten by many victims of residential burglaries. For example, 51% of burglaries reported in the town of Eden Prairie, the burglar obtained entrance to the dwelling through an unlocked and/or open door. Criminals most often choose the easiest way to commit a crime. Yet the most common entrance for burglars is through an open overhead garage door.


Here are a few tips to keep you and your family safe:

* Use a solid core or heavy metal door for all entrance points. Place lights near porches, outside of all doorways, garage doors and all other points of entry. Keep any entryways well-lit. Motion detecting lights are also good choices for home security.

* Create the illusion that you are home by using timers on lights, radios and TV's. Making your residence appear occupied, even when no one is home, will deter criminals. criminals.

* Never leave a message on your telephone answering machine telling people that you are away from home.

* Do not keep valuables in your bedroom. Burglars normally make a beeline for the bedroom because they know that people tend to keep cash and jewelry there. Keep your valuables in an unlikely place. Keep the perimeter of your home well-lit. Install a low voltage outdoor lighting system. ng system.

* Get to know your neighbors. Establish that you can count on them and that they can count on you to report suspicious activities to the police. Nothing beats a cautious neighbor, ready to call 911, for burglary protection.

* Purchase an alarm system and display alarm signs as they are a visible deterrent. Include an audible horn or bell along with the automatic notification of the alarm company.