The following security tips can help you, your family and your co-workers maintain a safer environment at home and at work.

Home

• Lock your doors.
  Whether you are at home or away, doors, including garage doors, should be closed and locked. Even if you leave the house on a brief errand or to work in the yard, all doors should be secured.

• Secure your windows.
  Basement and garage windows are entrance points that are often overlooked in security measures. Window bars and slide bolts can prevent windows from being forced open from the outside.

• Keep your yard clear.
  Don't tempt a burglar by displaying bikes and lawn equipment in your yard. Well-trimmed shrubbery and a well-lit yard will discourage burglars.

• While you're away.
  The majority of burglaries occur when the intruder thinks the occupant is away from home. Leaving lights, TVs or radios turned on while you are away may deter an intruder. If you go on vacation, inform your neighbors and ask them to collect mail and newspapers. Arrange for the lawn to be mowed or the snow to be shoveled while you are away.

Office

• Secure your building.
  Maintain good key and access card control. Never allow strangers to be alone in your office. If a suspicious person enters your office area, report the situation to building security personnel or police.

• Guard your valuables.
  Keep valuable personal items out of sight while you are at work. Keep purses, credit cards, checkbooks and wallets in a secure place. Lock your desk when you are away, even for a few minutes.

• When leaving your office.
  As you leave the building, ensure that all doors in your office area are locked and that alarms are set. Keep entrances and parking lots well lit. Walk with a co-worker as a buddy system when walking to and from your car.

Source: Minneapolis Community Crime Prevention/Safe: 612-673-3015

Resources: United Way 2-1-1™ is a free and confidential, 24/7 helpline that can connect you to over 40,000 community programs and resources. Just dial 2-1-1 or 651-291-0211.