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Police: Some Common Sense Can Prevent Crime

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- The Minneapolis Police Department is reminding people to use common sense to protect property from crime.

Warmer weather often brings crime of opportunity. Each year, police see a rise in thefts from yards and garages, and burglaries because of open windows and doors.

Police have a few recommendations.

Residents can pin windows so they open only far enough to let air in, but not far enough for a burglar to enter. Residents should also lock front doors while working in the backyard. And garage doors shouldn't be left open -- even if just for a few minutes.

Valuable items such as bicycles and lawn equipment should also be put away and not left in the yard.

And police say, never allow someone you don't know into your own home.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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