Excerpt:
The growing incidence of hate crime against Muslims in America has led Cair, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, to issue a safety guide to mosques and places where Muslims gather.
Cair is warning that mosques are vulnerable as they are located in isolated areas or are left unattended for long periods. And it warns that mosques should avoid having vegetation or shrubs close to the buildings where intruders might hide — and the facilities need to be well-lit and have a burglar alarm.
"Take the following safety measures," Cair warns. "Build good relationships with neighbours of the mosque. Invite them to visit your centre. Try to have people attend the mosque as much as possible. Activity deters perpetrators."