Minnesota Home Security and Safety Resources

Emergencies, crime incidents (like burglaries), and other worrisome events don’t usually come with a lot of warning. That's why we encourage everyone to be proactive about safety and security—at home and in your community. To help you stay safe in Minnesota, we’ve put together this list of local and statewide resources to make sure you know where to turn before the unexpected happens.

See the Safest Cities in Minnesota report for more information on crime statistics across the state.

In the United States, homes without a security system are three times more likely to be burglarized. Burglars want to get in and out with minimum hassle—why risk getting caught by a security system when they could just move onto the next house? Security systems send a message to burglars that your home is not to be trifled with.

With the smart home features available today, it’s easy to monitor the happenings in your home whether you’re sitting on your sofa or out running errands. Look into handy features like remote activation of your security system, control of your lighting and appliances, and live video streaming to your phone.

Don’t forget to take care of the obvious. Always lock your doors, and leave a spare key with a friend or neighbor (instead of under a flower pot or doormat). Don’t forget to close your windows at night or when you’re out. Trim bushes lining your home to eliminate hiding places, and invest in outdoor lighting to keep dark spots near your home entrances visible.

Strengthening the security of your neighborhood can start with getting to know your neighbors. You might find friends who can watch your place when you’re away, look out for a lost pet, help solve package theft mysteries, or aid in an emergency. And you can work together to build safety resources your community needs.

Avoid announcing specific vacation plans on social media or making it clear that the house is empty. To maintain a lived-in appearance, stop the mail and newspapers before you leave, and set indoor lights on variable timers. Let trusted neighbors know you’ll be gone; consider asking them to park their car in your driveway or make footprints in the snow (if it’s winter).

MN Crime Prevention

Minnesota Crime Prevention Association

Bureau of Criminal Apprehension

Crime Stoppers of Minnesota

Tri-County Crime Stoppers of Minnesota

MN City Crime Prevention

Saint Paul Police Department

Rochester Police Department

Minneapolis Police Department

Crime Stoppers of Rochester/Olmsted County

Neighborhood Watch

Bloomington Police Department

North Saint Paul Police Department

Minneapolis Police Department

Emergency Preparedness

Minnesota Recovers

Minnesota Disaster Relief

Minnesota-Wisconsin Disaster Relief

Minnesota Council of Foundations

Fire Safety

Fire Marshals Association of Minnesota

Minnesota Safety Council

Minneapolis Fire Prevention Bureau

Minnesota Alarm Associations

Electronic Security and Technology Assoc.

General Safety

Minnesota Safety Council

Public Protection and Internet Safety

Minnesota Patient Safety

Duluth Police Department: Senior Safety

Child Abuse Prevention

Prevent Child Abuse Minnesota

Minnesota Center Against Violence/Abuse

Child Abuse Evaluation and Training Center

Family Enhancement Center

Domestic Violence

Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women

Domestic Abuse Project

Day One MN Domestic Violence Crisis Line

Cornerstone

OutFront Minnesota

• Best Home Security Systems
• How to Choose a Security System
• The Beginner’s Guide to Security Cameras
• Home Safety and Security Checklist
• 20 Things You’ll Need for Your First Home