Apartment Security

Home security can imply many things. Alarm systems, locks, intercoms, security gates, peep holes, CCTV and the list can go on and on, but apartment living requires an even more watchful eye and diligent effort, when living in a community with so many coming and going, to ensure your safety and well being.

Ask most men and women in law enforcement and they will tell you it is not only the hardware or products you install in your residence that keeps a person safe, it is also the knowledge of what to look for and the willingness to take the time to learn about them.

For the new tenant to any building, installing new locks is always a good idea since those keys could have been copied any number of times, and property owners and managers do not regularly change the locks.

Be sure to take advantage of the window that is normally located next to the front door before letting opening the door or letting anyone in. If a peep hole is in place use it each and every time.

You can go to any home supply store and purchase a block or wedge of any material that can be used to jam under the door, thus making it so the door cannot be forced open.

Women making inquires are just as dangerous as men as they may be the front for others who are looking for apartments to rob or perform even worse acts.

In evening hours ask anyone claiming to be making package deliveries to leave the packages outside the door, do not open it unless you are expecting something.

Always keep the door residence locked when you are away (no matter the amount of time you will be gone) and when you are home.

It is best to only put your last name on your mailbox. Even if you have a roommate you don't want to give up too much information about yourself and this is a very good deterrent for women who live alone.

Consider the purchase of auto timers for lights to give the appearance that you are home when you might not be.

As with a car or truck, never leave valuables in places anyone can see from the outside.

This will only encourage possible break-ins.

Do not advertise that you are alone and if you have children discourage them from answering the door as they are less inclined to know who might or might not be a threat.

Always be aware of strangers in your apartment community. Of course with so many people living in one place you will never be able to know everyone and most certainly will not know their friends, but be mindful of those who loiter or show up at the same times by themselves. Alert the police if they repeat this often or they seem threatening.

When exiting your vehicle always have your front door automotive key ready and available.

Your safety and security is important and the best way to maintain this is to be mindful of events that could happen. By all means these things are not the norm, but to be aware of them is the first step to seeing them if they present themselves.