Minneapolis neighborhood leaders issue tips to protect residents as another riot looms

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - As Minneapolis faces the possibility of another night of unrest, neighborhood groups are providing advice for residents to protect themselves and their homes.

During meetings held via Zoom and at parks on Saturday, community leaders provided a number of suggestions after the city went through another night of riots, looting, and fires.

Among the suggestions, the groups are urging people to be prepared for fires. They are asking families and households to have fire escape plans, water hoses set up, if possible, and be prepared to help others. According to leaders, "bucket brigades" helped stop some fires set during early nights.

They are also encouraging people to bring trash and recycling bins inside, as they can provide easy sources to set fires. The groups also urge people to bring grills, fire pits, and anything with propane into your garage or safe storage areas.

Residents should leave lights on overnight and make noise if you see something suspicious. As always, residents should be on the lookout for people causing problems.

The City of Minneapolis is also encouraging people to make their properties less attractive to rioters or those intent on causing destruction. The city offered the following safety tips:

Be off the streets at 8:00 p.m.
Be aware of suspicious activities/groups
Be aware of large gatherings
Call 911 if you are witnessing suspicious activity
Remove anything from your lawn that could be flammable or a projectile through a window
Store dumpsters in your garage or move to hidden area in back yard. Consider wetting down the inside contents if they have to be left outside in view.
Keep LIGHTS ON and some windows open to hear noises that may be approaching. (use caution with windows that may be easily asked from the ground)
Have an escape plan and a to-go bag (remember to take along any medicines you may need)
If you need to be outside wear headlamp, bright colors and reflective clothing
Charge cell phones. Cell towers might go out
Have alternative ways to communicate with your neighbors and help them to make a plan in case things do get bad.
Have garden hoses ready and untangled for possible use.
Check your flood lights; door lights; KEEP THEM ON.
Soak down wood fences and surfaces
If you have a Little Free Library-empty it.
If you have a fire extinguisher-get it ready
Check on each other-especially older neighbors, and the vulnerable.