Eagan Police Issue Alert, Prevention Tips Following Home Burglary

Eagan police have issued an warning to local residents following a May 9 burglary at a home on the 600 block of Oxford Road.

Investigators are looking for a suspect or suspects who forced open the front door of a home and stole electronics and jewelry from the residence sometime between 7:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on May 9. Officers have no suspects at this time, but have asked for the public's help to identify and locate people connected to the incident.

Have a tip? Call Eagan Police Department Officer Proshek at 651-675-5888.

Police also took the opportunity to issue burglary prevention tips to help Eagan residents protect their property. Here are some basic safety tips to remember when thinking about your own home, courtesy of the police department:

• Main Level Windows
  Glass is most vulnerable to attack.  But, many burglars are reluctant to break windows because they’re visible from the street or from neighboring dwellings.  Windows hidden from view must be securely protected.

• Basement Windows
  Basement windows should be secured to prevent forcing.  Window locks should not be vulnerable if the glass is broken.

• Sliding Glass Doors
  Sliding glass doors can be secured with a Charley bar, pinning, or with simple locks.

• Exterior Doors
  Solid Core hardwood doors with rugged frames that cannot spread apart with a pry bar are recommended.

• Door Locks
  Quality deadbolt locks with a minimum one-inch throw are recommended. These locks should be mounted so one cannot open the door after breaking a window. Mounting the lock low on the door or can sometimes eliminate this problem.

• Garages
  Garage doors should be secured to eliminate a burglar access to tools that could help them break into your house. Also, a garage is a place for an intruder to hide. Lock the door from your garage into your home. An overhead door doesn’t guarantee privacy and security.

• Lights
  Lighting is the #1 deterrent of crime.  Burglars don’t want to be seen breaking the law. Flood lights  at exterior doors and by garage doors are recommended. Use timers on interior light and TV’s when not at home.

• House Number
  Your house number should be clearly displayed and well lit at night for law enforcement and emergency vehicles to see.

• Shrubs
  Bushes should not exceed 3 feet in height or width and trees should be trimmed at least 7 feet off the ground to eliminate natural hiding places.