Not My Plate
Tamper-Resistant
License Plate Program

Luther Brookdale Honda, 6800 Brooklyn Blvd in Brooklyn Center, will install four license plate tamper-resistant screws for participating community members.

This FREE service will be available
Monday - Friday (9 am - 3 pm)
No appointment is necessary, while supplies last.
The tamper-resist screws for this event will be provided.

Not all vehicles or license plates may accommodate the tamper-resistant screws that are provided. There may also be cases where the license plate screws are rusted or may cause damage. Service is at the discretion of Luther Brookdale Honda and they may decline installation.

The Brooklyn Center Police Department received approval through a Minnesota Auto Theft Grant to deploy 10 ALPRs throughout the City. Locations of those ALPRs are as follows:

• 51st Ave N / Brooklyn Blvd (northbound)
• 51st Ave N / Brooklyn Blvd (southbound)
• Shingle Creek Pkwy / County Rd 10 (westbound)
• Shingle Creek Pkwy / County Rd 10 (eastbound)
• Brooklyn Blvd / 68th Ave N (southbound)
• Brooklyn Blvd / 69th Ave N (northbound)
• Shingle Creek Pkwy / Summit Dr N (northbound)
• Shingle Creek Pkwy / Freeway Blvd (southbound)
• 54th Ave N / Logan Ave N
• 54th Ave N / Logan Ave N

Brooklyn Center Police Department License Plate Reader (ALPR) Policy. 

If you have one or more home security cameras and are willing to share videos with us that may help in criminal cases please provide your information via the following link: Click Here to Register Your Camera.

Residents and business owners in Brooklyn Center with outdoor security cameras now have an easy way to share that footage with police should the need arise. This program allows people to register their security cameras with the department. “We can’t do it alone,” said Dan Jerzak, a crime prevention specialist with the Brooklyn Center Police Department. “The more eyes that we have, the better chance we have of, for example, identifying suspects, getting a license plate.”

The way the program would work is, if someone commits a crime, investigators can look in their database to see who has security cameras in the area. Police could then contact the residents or business owners who have registered their cameras to see if they captured any relevant footage they would be willing to share. Meanwhile, police say the move was done in response to the uptick in carjacking incidents across the metro.

“It’s a voluntary opt-in and opt-out basis,” Jerzak said. “And probably more importantly is, put yourself in this position. If it was your vehicle or your family member or you that were a victim of a crime, wouldn’t you want that information to be made available if it helped in the apprehension and ultimate prosecution of that individual or individuals?”

Registration is voluntary, and people or businesses can remove themselves from the list at any time. We are watching through our shared community lens.

In 2021, the Minnesota Legislature created the catalytic converter theft prevention pilot program; Minn. Stat. 325E.21 subd.2b. The intent of the program is to deter the theft of catalytic converters by marking them with unique identification numbers that permanently mark the catalytic converter. 

CATETCH/CATGUARD Label ID System

The Commerce Fraud Bureau administers this program and chose the CATGUARD Label Solution as the primary method for marking catalytic converters. The labels are installed by sticking the label onto a - cool to the touch - catalytic converter. A fluid is then painted onto the label, which, once a vehicle is started, causes the unique number to be etched into the metal. Once registered, the unique number allows law enforcement to trace a converter back to a specific vehicle if a converter were to be stolen and later recovered.

Most Targeted Vehicle Makes and Models 

There have been 15 vehicles makes and models that were identified as the most targeted for catalytic converter thefts and are as follows:

1.  Chevrolet Express
2.  Ford Econoline
3.  Ford F250
4.  Honda Accord
5.  Honda CRV
6.  Honda Element
7.  Honda Odyssey
8.  Hyundai Santa Fe
9.  Hyundai Tucson
10.  Kia Sportage
11.  Mitsubishi Eclipse
12.  Mitsubishi Lancer
13.  Mitsubishi Outlander
14.  Toyota Prius
15.  Toyota Tundra

If you own one of the listed vehicles or if your catalytic converter has been, or attempted to have been stolen, you can get a free marking label for your catalytic converter.  

The law requires the labels be installed at no cost to vehicle owners. Businesses cannot charge for the installation of the CATETCH/CATGUARD label; however, they can require that a different service be performed in order to install a label (ex. oil change).

The Brooklyn Center Police Department does not install the CATGUARD label.  You must either install the label yourself or find a dealership that will.  There are instructional install videos available online.

Get Yourself A CATETCH/CATGUARD Label 

To request and pick up a label kit for your vehicle, please contact Crime Prevention Specialist, Kris Stein or visit our office in person, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 

Registration

When you pick up a label kit, we will require a form to be filled out with a representative from the police department. The information you provide will be used to register the unique code of the label you're issued within the International Security Register. The unique code number and your information will allow us to track, recover and notify owners whose catalytic converter was stolen.

More Information about CATETCH/CATGUARD

• https://mn.gov/commerce/insurance/auto/auto-theft-prevention/catalytic-converter-pilot.jsp
• https://www.mastergard.com/catetch-labels 

The Crime Free Housing Program is a state-of-the-art, crime prevention program designed to reduce crime, drugs, and gangs on the apartment and rental properties.

The International Crime Free Multi-Housing program consists of three phases that must be completed under the supervision of the local police department. Property managers can become individually certified after completing training in each phase and the property becomes certified upon successful completion of all three phases.

Program Benefits

• A stable, more satisfied resident base
• Improved personal safety for tenants, managers, and owners
• Increased demand for rental units with a reputation for active management
• Increased property values
• Lower maintenance and repair costs
• More appreciative neighbors
• More time for routine management and less time on crisis control

For more information, please contact For more information, please contact the Community Development Department at (763) 569-3330. For monthly crime prevention tips, please visit the Minnesota Crime Prevention Association website.

Phase I

National Crime Free Housing ("CFH") Program Requirements

• Attend an eight-hour crime-free housing course presented by police, fire, public housing, and others on the following topics:
  • Crime Prevention Theory
  • CPTED Theory (Physical Security)
  • Benefits of Resident Screening
  • Lease Agreements and Eviction Issues
  • Crime Free Lease Addendum
  • Key Control and Master Key Use
  • On-Going Security Management Monitoring and Responding to Criminal Activity
  • Gangs, Drugs Activity, and Crime Prevention
  • Legal Warnings, Notices & Evictions Working Smarter With the Police Fire and Life Safety Training Community Awareness
• Upcoming Crime Free Multi-Housing (CFMH)Phase 1 Training

Additional City Requirements per Chapter12-914

• Use a written lease including the Minnesota Crime Free Housing Lease Addendum.
• Check the criminal background of all prospective tenants and, upon request, provide a copy of Third Party Background Check procedures for Tenants.
• Actively pursue the eviction of tenants who violate the terms of the lease and/or the Crime Free Lease Addendum.

Phase II

National Crime Free Housing Program Requirements

• Security Assessment - Crime Prevention through Environmental Design Survey (CPTED)
  • Minimum exterior door requirement
    • Single cylinder dead bold with 1-inch throw bolt
    • Security strike plates with four 3 inch screw
    • 180 degree door viewer
  • Minimum window requirement
    • Adequate functioning lock
    • Anti-lift/removal for sliding door
  • Minimum exterior lighting standards
  • Landscape maintenance standards compliance
  • Properly install and visible address numbers

Additional City Requirements per City Code 12-914

• Attend a minimum of 25 percent of Owners/Managers Association Meetings.

Phase III

National Crime Free Housing Program Requirements

• Landlords make a written crime-free commitment
• Commit to proper tenant screening - use minimum screening criteria
• Commit to having their tenants sign and abide by a crime-free lease addendum
• Commit to maintaining their property (CPTED) security criteria
• Commit to properly checking their properties regularly (inside and out, at least once every 2 months)
• Commit to notifying the neighbors of their rental and their name, phone #, and address
• Commit to working with police and other agencies
• Commit to being re-certified annually

Additional City Requirements per City Code 12-914

• For properties with more than four units, conduct resident training annually for the residents where crime watch and crime prevention techniques are discussed.
• For properties with more than four units, hold regular resident meetings.
• Attend a minimum of 50 percent of Owners/Managers Association Meetings.
• Have no City Code violations that were not resolved in accordance with compliance orders within the past year.

We are fortunate to be one of the few cities that still have a Crime Prevention Board. The Board consists of Brooklyn Center residents and has been instrumental in providing funds for National Night Out, Neighborhood Watch newsletter, Police/Citizen Award Ceremony, Summer Youth Program, crime tip rewards, and other programs that are introduced.

The Crime Prevention Board does not receive funds from the City and relies exclusively on donations. If you would like to help support the Brooklyn Center Crime Prevention Board, please send donations to:

Brooklyn Center Crime Prevention Board
6645 Humboldt Ave N.
Brooklyn Center, MN 55430

Report Crime Information Anonymously Without Fear of Retaliation

Crime Stoppers of Minnesota provides a safe place for citizens to provide anonymous information about crime and fugitives.  Brooklyn Center Police partners with Crime Stoppers to investigate anonymous tips they receive.  If the information you provided leads to a felony arrest, you may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 through Crime Stoppers.  

Your contact with Crime Stoppers is anonymous. Information can be shared with Crime Stoppers via phone, online, or through a mobile app.

Submit your tip online here.

Social Security Scams

Scammers pretend to be from Social Security Administration and try to get your social security number or money.

Phone Scams

These tips can help you hang up on a phone scammer and hold onto your money.

Phishing Scams

Scammers use email or text messages to trick you into giving them your personal information.

Unemployment Benefits Scams

Imposters are filing claims for unemployment benefits.
Get tips on how to avoid falling victim and stay up-to-date on current, trending scams by visiting https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts on a regular basis.

What is a Robocall?

If you answer the phone and hear a recorded message instead of a live person, it's a robocall.

You've probably gotten robocalls about candidates running for office, or charities asking for donations. These robocalls are allowed. But if the recording is a sales message and you haven't given your written permission to get calls from the company on the other end, the call is illegal. In addition to the phone calls being illegal, their pitch most likely is a scam

What's the FTC Doing About Robocalls?

During the last few years, the FTC has stopped billions of robocalls that offer everything from fraudulent credit card services and so-called auto warranty protection to home security systems and grant procurement programs. Tracing these calls is a tough job:

Many different companies use the same or very similar recorded messages.
Robocallers fake the caller ID information that you see on your phone. That's called caller ID spoofing — and new technology makes it very easy to do. In some cases, the fraudulent telemarketer may want you to think the call is from your bank, or another entity you've done business with. Sometimes, the telephone number may show up as "unknown" or "123456789." Other times, the number is a real one belonging to someone who has no idea his or her number is being misused.

Robocallers often place the calls through internet technology that hides their location.

What Should You Do If You Get a Robocall?

If you get a robocall:

Hang up the phone. Don't press 1 to speak to a live operator and don't press any other number to get your number off the list. If you respond by pressing any number, it will probably just lead to more robocalls.

File a complaint with the FTC

Get Involved & Make a Difference

Whether you wish to donate to a specific event or would like to volunteer for a longer time, a variety of opportunities exist for you to get involved and make a difference in the community or the world. A few organizations are provided below, but there are many other legitimate and some non-legitimate entities that may request your time or money. Before you donate, be sure to view the donation guidelines below to make sure your time and money is being used as you intended.

Donate Money

• Brooklyn Center Crime Prevention Board
• Senior Community Services- HOME Chores
• HOMELine- Tenants Hotline
• Local Donation Organizations
  
  • American Red Cross- Twin Cities Chapter
  • Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP)
• Global Donation Organizations
  
  • US Agency for International Development (USAID)
  • National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters
  • Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI)

Volunteer

• Adopt a Park / Trail / Street/Adopt a Garden / Planter
• Crime Prevention Board
• Great Shingle Creek Cleanup
• Join a Commission(Charter, Financial, Housing, Parks & Recreation, Planning)
• Joint Community Police Partnership (JCPP)
• Multi-Cultural Advisory Commission (MAC)
• New Neighbor Welcome Program

Recognize Others

• Random Acts of Kindness
• Brooklyn Center Police Awards- See Police Commendations

While residents and businesses in Brooklyn Center are generous, giving money to panhandlers has unintended consequences and does not provide long-term solutions for those in need. Many communities in the metro area experience the negative effects of panhandlers. The courts have ruled that panhandlers are protected by the First Amendment and may stand passively and display their signs. However, they may not behave aggressively or interfere with traffic flow. If you notice aggressive behavior or interference with traffic, please call 911 so an officer may respond.

People often feel uncomfortable when approached by someone who is soliciting money. The following information provides tips for responding to panhandlers, ways to make wise donations, and resources for those in need.

Tips for Responding to Panhandling

If you are approached by a panhandler or someone soliciting money, the following tips may be helpful:

• Do not provide money to panhandlers even if they dress to play to your sympathy or use techniques to amuse you. Politely say “No” or “Sorry.” Pulling out your purse or wallet can also make you a potential victim of a crime.
• Aggressive panhandling is illegal. If you feel threatened, call 911. Examples of aggressive behavior include:
  • Confronting someone in a way that would cause a reasonable person to fear bodily harm
  • Touching someone without his or her consent
  • Continuing to panhandle or follow someone after he or she has refused to give money
  • Intentionally blocking or interfering with the safe passage of a person or vehicle
  • Using obscene or abusive language toward someone while attempting to panhandle him or her
  • Acting with intent to intimidate someone into giving money
• If you would like to help people in need, donate wisely to the organizations that exist to help them. You can get the most positive results from your donation if you donate to charitable organizations. Visit the Get Involved & Make a Difference webpage and Donation Guidelines webpage.

Available Resources

A variety of resources and non-profit partners are available in Brooklyn Center and the greater metro area to help those who are in need. These organizations provide a local food shelf, assist with housing needs, and assess physical and mental health needs. Donating to these organizations helps support long-term solutions. A few resources for panhandlers and homeless people include:

• Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP) is the local food shelf. Contact www.ceap.com or call (763) 566-9600. Contact CEAP for their hours of operation.
• United Way 2-1-1 provides referrals to resources and assistance for many issues. Visit www.gtcuw.org, or call 211, or Local (651) 291-0211, or Toll-free (800) 543-7709. 211 is available 24 hours a day, every day.

Options for Businesses and Property Owners

Businesses and property owners can order panhandlers off their property and the Police Department will assist in the notification and removal process. Additionally, Police staff can give written notice that those parties may not return in accordance with Minnesota State Statute 609.605 Trespassing. This law states a person is in violation of State Law if the person:

(3) trespasses on the premises of another and, without the claim of right, refuses to depart from the premises on demand of the lawful possessor;

(4) occupies or enters the dwelling or locked or posted building of another, without the claim of right or consent of the owner or the consent of one who has the right to give consent, except in an emergency situation;

People who violate the Statute after the notice is in violation of a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

Negative Impact of Panhandling

Panhandling has negative effects on the community. Residents and businesses voice concerns about this issue. Some concerns include that residents or visitors to our community may feel unsafe or intimidated by the panhandlers. Panhandlers promote a negative image of the community. Businesses may suffer if panhandlers are present near their businesses or in the parking lots since customers tend to avoid areas where panhandlers beg. The Police Department has found that panhandlers often want money instead of other assistance in order to purchase alcohol or illegal drugs. Residents have reported that panhandlers have misrepresented themselves and their use of the money.

Use your money wisely, do not give money to panhandlers!

Night to Unite will be held on Tuesday, August 2, 2022. The event builds stronger neighborhood spirit, police-community partnerships and lowers crime.

Night to Unite is a statewide event that builds and fosters community bonds between citizens, businesses, and public safety organizations. This annual celebration occurs on the first Tuesday in August and gathers neighborhoods and public safety personnel together for an evening to promote safe communities.

Night to Unite goals are to:

• Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness.
• Generate support and participation in crime prevention and community policing programs.  Camera registration – tamper resistance screws – mobile pole cameras initiative . These and our ongoing series of crime prevention tips and programs can be highlighted.
• Strengthen neighborhood spirits and public safety-community partnerships.
• Let criminals know that you are committed to keeping your neighborhood safe.

Neighborhoods across the state display outdoor lights and front porch vigils and celebrate with a variety of events and activities, including block parties and cookouts, with visits from sheriff’s offices, police and fire departments, and elected officials.

Night to Unite has proven to be an effective, inexpensive, and enjoyable opportunity to promote neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships in pursuit of safer communities. Community benefits often extend beyond this single evening event as neighbors get to know each other and the public safety agencies that serve them.  The MCPA created the logo that is free of charge to be used on any item or department.

Night to Unite is an alternative to National Night Out (NNO), which is held on the same evening.

Block Parties

Get-togethers can be as simple as potluck dinners, ice-cream socials or ordering carryout from a local restaurant. Night to Unite is a great opportunity for community members to catch up with one another, welcome new neighbors and update their neighborhood directories.

Hosting a party

• Individual neighborhoods host their own block parties
• Invite your neighbors at least one week before the event – 10 houses to 200 houses, it’s up to you
• Have a picnic, ice cream social, or just meet to talk – every party is different, do what works for you
• Register your party

Registering your neighborhood party

Register your neighborhood party today.

Residential Home Security Tips Following Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)

Burglaries and break-ins can be prevented or deterred by following some common crime prevention practices. Time, noise and light are a burglar’s worst enemies. Most break-ins are crimes of opportunity and relatively unsophisticated in nature. Thieves seek the easiest opportunity or point of entry to gain access to a home. You can prevent burglaries by making your home less attractive to criminals by making changes to your environment (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design).

Door and Frames

• Exterior doors should be of solid core construction and installed at all exterior dwelling entrances and attached garage entrances.
• The solid core door should fit snugly into the properly constructed frame to provide adequate strength and security.
• The frame should be reinforced by blocking or filling at lock height to provide extra strength to help deter the burglary method of spreading.
• Glass inserts to solid core doors and glass sidelight panels on one or both sides of the door should be considered when target hardening the entry. A burglar can smash and reach inside to cheat the locking mechanism.
• Reinforcing the frame area adjacent to the window area beside the door and replacing glass with more secure glass, plastic or shatter resistant plastic film adhered to the inside surface will help to increase the level of security.

Doors

French or Double Doors generally have glass panes, though some can be solid. One of the doors to the set should be braced by the use of flush bolts at both the top and bottom of the edge of the door. This reduces the inward give of the doors and provides better security. A good deadbolt system should also be fitted to the active door for additional security.

Sliding Patio Doors have a poor latch locking system and should be reinforced with secondary mechanisms. Without these secondary systems, sliding doors are prone to being lifted out of their tracks with the use of crowbars. Using devices such as commercial jimmy plates, spring locks and safety bars can add a level of security.

There are also very cost-effective home remedies:

• A simple hockey stick cut to fit snugly into the bottom track can prevent sliding.
• Drilling a small hole through the frame and inserting a nail or metal pin can also prevent sliding.
• Screws drilled into the top rail can prevent lifting.
• Steel Security Storm Doors can be installed with secure hardware and constructed as simple wrought iron or designed with glass and screen inserts with weather stripping. This is a more expensive option.

Note: Before making any alterations to your home to improve security, inspect your home and plan for a variety of exits in case of fire.

Hinges and Fasteners

Burglar resistant doors should swing inward so that the hinge pins cannot be removed from the outside. If the hinges are the style that can be removed easily, they should be replaced by the non-removable type.

Hinge screws should be long enough to reach through to the wall stud beyond the doorframe. If the hinge pins are exposed, you can secure them by inserting a small non-removable screw into the middle of each pin. The use of a small metal peg in the hinge will provide extra security at that point when the door is closed and the hinge pin is removed, the door cannot be slid out from the frame.

All fasteners exposed to tampering should be rendered non-removable by using one-way screws, grinding out the slot with a drill or fill the driving recess with “liquid metal”.

Locks

Locks are the first line of defense against intruders. No locking mechanism is burglar proof, but good locks can be an effective deterrent.

Primary locks are referred to as key-in-knob locks or cylindrical locks. These locks provide minimum security and are popular, as they are low cost and simple to install.

There are two styles of key-in-knob locks:

1. The spring latch does not require a key and has a beveled edge bolt that can be cheated simply by inserting a piece of plastic card or metal between the door and frame.
2. The dead latch bolt operates the same way as the spring latch, but has a dead-latch plunger that when engaged makes the latch inoperable.

Auxiliary locks refer to secondary locking mechanisms that should be installed with the primary lock to provide more adequate security. Examples of auxiliary lock systems area as follows:

Deadbolts

The term deadbolt describes the exact function of the mechanism. The bolt is ‘dead’; that is to say the bolt can not be slipped with a card or tool, but can only be disengaged with a key. The minimum throw of a deadbolt should be 1”. The surrounding collar of the deadbolt should be made of good quality material so that it can not be crushed or have a slip ring that is separate from the deadbolt mechanism and can rotate freely to prevent crushing or twisting. The strike plate should be installed properly with long screws that anchor in to the frame, which increases the security benefit of this locking mechanism. Deadbolts provide good to excellent security depending on the quality.

Note: The use of double cylinder deadbolts (keyed to both sides of the lock) is against the City Code since every exit door shall permit the door to be readily opened from the inside with not more than one releasing operation and without requiring keys, special devices or specialized knowledge of the door mechanism.

• Interlocking Bolt Rim Lock. Unlike the horizontal bolt of a standard deadbolt, the interlocking bolt rim lock has two vertically moving deadbolts that lock into a frame-mounted striker that increases the resistance to an attack from a crowbar. These locks are suitable for wooden frames or where there are sidelights. These locks provide good to excellent security, depending on the quality.
• Rim Deadbolt Lock. Surface mounted on the interior of the door, these locks are easy to install but are poor security if installed with simple screws. They provide better security if installed with carriage bolts. These systems are found on some older homes and should be updated.
• Pushbutton Rim Locks. Keyless locks operated by pressing the correct combination on the numbered entry pad. Popular in commercial applications but can be used for residential applications. However, the security code should be changed regularly so the number pads do not wear out from overuse.
• Digitally Coded Deadbolt System with Keypad or Electronic Remote. These are relatively new systems that can be expensive to purchase, but can be fitted to existing openings. They operate in the same manner as the traditional deadbolt system, but the locking mechanism can be activated without keys from a distance with an electronic remote or by entering the security code on the attached keypad. These systems can be of great benefit to seniors or people with disabilities.

• Auxiliary lock* mechanism reinforcement system. To add to the already increased security offered by a good quality deadbolt lock, the addition of a steel reinforcement device to both the door and frame greatly increases strength. This system is cost effective and simple to install. (i.e., “Bolt Buddy”).

* Note: When an auxiliary lock is installed to improve the security of a door, there remains a weakness at that point in the frame if force is applied to the door. A strike plate is always installed to the frame as the mechanism in which the bolt is housed. The standard strike plate is fastened with ¾” screws which are inadequate. It is recommended that an extended strike plate be installed with 2-½” to 3” screws that will add a substantial degree of strength to the frame. A high security box-type or wrap around style strike plate with 2-½” to 3” screws would increase this degree of strength substantially.

Windows

Window Windows are generally a weak link when it comes to residential security. They can be pried or broken with a tool, lifted from their tracks and the panes removed. There are numerous ways to increase the security of windows. Conduct this simple survey of your existing windows by asking the following questions:

• How effective is the window design?
• What are the weak points?
• What is the access from the ground, garage, porch, roof, tree, fire escape, ledge or balcony, etc…?
• Is the glass shatter resistant?
• What is the state of repair of the sash and frame?
• Are the locking mechanisms functional and are they engaged?
• Are the sight lines to the windows open or closed to view?
• Is the surrounding area well-lit at night?

Here are some of the different types of window sets currently in use:

• Vertical sliding (double hung) windows
• Horizontal sliding windows
• Casement windows
• Awning windows
• Louvered windows
• Sashless or semi-sashed windows

Here are some methods of adding security to window sets:

• Any window that is not to be used as a fire exit can simply be secured by nailing or screwing it permanently closed or adding grill work.
• Vertical sliding (double hung) or horizontally sliding windows can be pinned with a nail or metal pin that can be removed. Any keyless latches can be secured by drilling a hole through the latch and inserting a removable pin or replacing the existing latch with a keyed latch set.
• Casement and awning windows can be secured simply by replacing keyless latches with keyed latches or keyed slide bolt. Install a pin system through the latch mechanism that can be removed when required.
• Sashless or semi-sashed windows can be blocked closed with a piece of wood fit snugly into the bottom track to prevent sliding and a small screw drilled into the top track to prevent it from being lifted.
• Fixed picture windows, vision panels (including small paned) and skylights are inoperative, providing good security. Most thieves have no interest in breaking these windows as they take time and cause too much noise.
• Basement windows can also be secured by using grillwork, guards and bar mechanisms. They can be installed with one-way screws, pins or padlocks. Ensure that at least one window has a means of operation so that it can be opened for possible escape and that all basement windows in bedroom areas are operable for safety reasons.

• Other methods of adding security to the glazing (glass area) of a window would include shatter resistant films (3M Scotch Shield) which strengthen the glass area. Glass areas can also be covered or even replaced with Lucite (high impact acrylic sheeting) that can survive attack without being broken unless very extreme force is used (which will usually take too much time and cause too much noise).

Note: Before making any alterations to your home to improve security, inspect your home and plan for a variety of exits in case of fire.

Miscellaneous Safety Information

Light timers

Light timers installed in areas throughout the home and set to go on and off at different times during the evening can give the appearance that a residence is occupied. The same timers can also be set to operate radios. When a home is left in either total darkness or completely lit up for extended periods of time, it can give the impression that the home is unoccupied. Most timers are inexpensive and can be purchased at most hardware and department stores.

Chain locks

Chain locks are not recommended as they can give a false sense of security. Once the door is set slightly ajar with the chain engaged, allowing the homeowner to take a look at who might be at the door, the door can be grabbed or pushed open and entry gained. Most chain locks are installed with short screws and weak chains. The strength of any door only works when it is closed. Other items can be used to better reinforce the door to provide an extra hard point and keeps the door in the closed position. A through-door viewer should be installed in conjunction with any hardware to provide a view to the outside.

Door viewers

Through-door viewers provide a view to the outside. This is a great feature for solid core doors without any glazed portions so that you can see who is there before allowing access. There are several styles on the market and each provides different peripheral views from 160 to 180 degrees. The ideal viewer will provide a large image with a 204-180-degree view so that there is no ‘blind spot’ left or right at the wall. The newest form of viewer is comprised of a prism construction that will not allow any view to the inside from outside and a large inside viewer that can be observed several steps back from the door.

Door wedges

Door wedges or stops can provide additional reinforcement to the door when engaged. Such devices can be as simple as rubber wedges pinned into predrilled holes in the floor, to commercial devices that function in the same manner. It should be noted, however, that if these items are used, then all residents and visitors should be made aware of their operation in case of fire.

Address Numbers

Householder identification is often neglected as a result of a lack of understanding. Address numbers are required by City Code, and are necessary for Police, Fire and Ambulance personnel to locate your residence in case of an emergency.

Vacations

Vacations should be considered as a security concern. You should take certain steps to help prevent making your home a target while you are away. Make sure that you leave your home in the care of someone you trust and let them know where you can be reached in case of emergency. Instruct them on the following:

• Keep the mailbox clear
• Keep the grass cut and yard clean in summer
• Keep the walkways and driveway clear of snow in the winter
• Keep ladders or climbing devices locked away out of sight or they might be used to gain entry

Crime Prevention

• Use light timers for your lights and radio to give the impression that someone is home.
• Cancel all deliveries, newspapers and your mail.
• Make sure that all your valuables are stored properly or put into a safety deposit box.

Garages

Garages present a unique problem to residential security. They generally have inadequate locks that can easily be pried off. The overhead doors should be reinforced with ½” plywood sheeting if constructed of thin wood panels and fitted with either a sliding bolt lock system or pinned at the track for better security. The single pedestrian entryway door should be of solid core construction and reinforced the same as the entry to your home. If the garage is the attached style, special care should be taken to ensure that it is always secure. Once inside, the culprit(s) can secure the garage and attempt to gain entry to the home in complete seclusion.

If you have an electric garage door opener, change the internal code from time to time or purchase a new system that has an automatically changing encrypted access code that cannot be intercepted by a device. If you leave for vacation, the electric opener should be disconnected from the power supply.

Alarm systems

An alarm system is intended to detect a burglary, but will not necessarily prevent one. A system is only as good as its user and should be installed along with good physical security reinforcement such as deadbolt locks, adequate lighting, secure basement windows and strong exterior doors.

Alarm companies offer a variety of alarm systems with numerous features. Obtain recommendations from friends with alarm systems or your insurance agent before choosing a system. You should also determine:

• How long the alarm company has been in business
• The number of service facilities the company has
• If the company holds adequate liability insurance
• Whether or not their employees bonded

Obtain detailed quotes and system information from at least three alarm companies before making a final selection. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau for company information.

Of all the alarm systems available, there are two methods of installation to consider that are of concern to the police:

• An audible alarm that rings only locally and is not monitored
• An alarm monitored by a private company

Bear in mind that it is possible for potential thieves to circumvent some monitored alarm systems by cutting the telephone wires before they enter the house. Speak to your alarm company representative about obtaining an alternate alarm system which does not use telephone wires to send its signal to the alarm company, or consider installing a telephone line shield which goes around the telephone wire and is bolted to the house. This metal shield protects the telephone line from being cut.

Note: False alarms waste valuable police resources and reduce the integrity of the alarm system. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure correct operation of the system. All monitored alarm systems are serviced by an intermediate private company prior to any notification of Police.

What should you look for?

Brooklyn Center Police Officers are dispatched and respond to check out suspicious activities. It could be the call you make that will help direct officers to the right area to investigate and prevent a crime. Get to know your neighbors so that you confidently recognize if someone does not belong in your neighborhood.

Here are some examples of suspicious activity to report:

• If a situation doesn’t seem right, it’s suspicious.
• People in an area at an unusual time of day or night.
• Non-residents going into the backyard or side area of a house
• Someone seen looking into vehicles or house window areas.
• Anyone seen tampering with doors, windows and locks.
• Persons loitering around homes, schools, parks and business or utility areas
• Kids out past curfew time and people in a business area or park after hours.
• Vehicles moving slowly and following a course that is aimless or repetitive especially with their lights off.
• High short-term traffic with possible drug activity.
• Any sounds that would indicate an unusual noise, struggle, accident, vandalism, or loud explosive noise.
• You believe life or property is in danger.

Tell your neighbors if they see suspicious activity or a person to call 9-1-1. If you have any other questions or concerns please feel free to contact the Brooklyn Center Police Department at 9-1-1. Thank you for your assistance.

When a motor vehicle is left unattended with the motor running and the keys in the ignition, it provides an opportunity for the vehicle to be stolen. This is a violation of City Ordinances and could result in a fine.

Many auto thefts could have been prevented if the vehicle had been turned off and the key removed when the driver left the vehicle unattended. When a vehicle is stolen, there are many inconveniences to the vehicle owner. In addition, extra police services are required to investigate the crime. In some cases, safety hazards have occurred due to pursuits of stolen vehicles or when children were left in the vehicles. There are also financial consequences associated with insurance rates, vehicle damage, and personal items left in the vehicle. Therefore, it important to take measures to prevent auto theft.

Some of the most common locations where vehicles are stolen while running and unattended include gas stations, hotels, and restaurants. However, these types of vehicle thefts can also occur in other locations including residential driveways.

Alternative

For warming up vehicles during the cold winter months, installation of a remote starter may be a possible alternative.

City Code

Section 27-122. Unattended Motor Vehicle. No person driving or being in charge of a motor vehicle shall permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key therefrom, and removing the key from the motor vehicle.

Resources

CCX Video- Unattended Vehicle Best Practices