Minneapolis police provide suggestions to protect personal safety, prevent carjackings

Rebecca Omastiak
[KSTP]

In light of a reported increase in robberies, home invasions and carjackings, the Minneapolis Police Department has issued recommendations for personal safety protection and preventing carjackings.

In a release Wednesday, the police department suggested the following to protect personal safety:

  • Be aware of surroundings, including being aware of the people nearby.
  • Call 911 if you see signs that someone is being threatened or assaulted. Take note of any vehicle information or suspect descriptions so responding officers know what or who to look for.
  • Keep distance between you and anyone you don’t know who approaches you and be alert if anyone approaches you to ask a question or for directions.
  • Do not give your cellphone to anyone who approaches you asking if they can use it to make a call.
  • Don’t carry additional documents, payment cards or valuables other than what you absolutely need.

Additionally, the police department suggested the following in preventing carjackings:

  • Do not leave your vehicle running while unattended and never leave a key inside a parked vehicle.
  • Memorize your license plate to help in fast recovery.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid being alone in your vehicle in certain areas, including isolated roads and parking lots.
  • Don’t sit in your vehicle with the windows down and the doors unlocked.
  • Park in well-lit areas and if concerned, find a security guard to accompany you to your parked vehicle.
  • Make sure your cellphone is charged and accessible.
  • Be aware of tactics carjackers use, including bumping into your vehicle, pretending to be stranded, and flashing their vehicle’s lights at you. If you feel a threat, drive to the nearest police or fire station.
  • Keep distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of yours if you need to drive around it and make a quick escape.

Anyone with questions or concerns about crime prevention as well as home and business security can contact city of Minneapolis crime prevention specialists at 612-673-3000 or 311 for your specific neighborhood crime prevention specialist.