With spring break around the corner, Eden Prairie residents looking to take a leisurely respite from the daily grind need to be mindful of more than just their travel itineraries. The safety of their homes while they are away should be high on the pre-vacation checklist. An Eden Prairie Police Department blog posting makes it clear: "In 2024, there were 28 residential burglaries in Eden Prairie." The post encourages citizens not to join this year's statistics by following several key recommendations aimed at deterring potential break-ins.
First and foremost, keep those vacation plans off social media. Broadcasting your absence could easily turn to quickly invite unwanted attention. The EPPD suggests to also thoroughly check that all doors and windows are securely locked before departing. This includes the often-overlooked door between your garage and home. To further create the appearance of occupancy, homeowners are advised to set up timers on their lights and TVs. And for that car in the driveway? Remove all valuables and be sure to lock it down tight, excluding any garage door openers.
Outdoor lighting is another crucial component in the EPPD's security strategy. Motion-sensing lights or standard outdoor ones should be left on near entrances to discourage any would-be burglars from approaching under the cover of darkness. Additionally, residents should consider arranging for snow removal in their absence, placing a hold on mail and newspaper delivery to avoid telltale signs of a vacant home.
Perhaps unexpectedly, valuables should not find refuge in the bedroom, as it's often the first stop for thieves. "Don’t keep valuables in your bedroom as this is where burglars go first. Instead, keep valuables in an unlikely place," says the EPPD. Moreover, it's advised to keep potential hiding spots, such as overgrown shrubbery near windows or doors, well-trimmed. And lastly, it never hurts to have an extra set of eyes on your property, so inform trusted neighbors of your travel plans and encourage them to remain vigilant and to not hesitate to call 911 if they observe any suspicious activities.
The EPPD's complete list of tips and thoughtful guidance for safeguarding homes can be found in their recent bulletin at edenprairie.org/EPPDBlog. Keeping these practices in mind may help ensure that the only thing residents will need to worry about upon their return is unpacking.
