Staying Safe in Apartments

Apartment or condo living is a very popular home option because of it's economy, location and convenience. However, because more and more people are choosing apartments over houses, it has become a target to burglars, thieves and intruders.

Follow these advice to minimize the threat and possibility of your becoming a victim in your own home.

• Get a pet. If your landlord allows the tenants to have a pet, consider getting a dog or a cat. Pets can serve as the ideal living companion an and are often the best kind of security system to have. Pets have a keen sense and they react to possible danger before you see it.
• Become familiar with the habits of your neighborhood and take the time to get to know your neighbors.
• Pay close attention to detail and always stay alert.
• Before moving into your new apartment, be sure to change all the locks on the doors and windows.
• Keep your doors and windows locked at all times. If your apartment door does not have a peephole, ask your landlord if you could have one installed. This eliminates the need to open your doors to see who is outside.
• Have your apartment inspected to identify vulnerable spots and address them.
• Park your car in a well lit area or areas that are visibly and busy.
• Never leave anything in your car that would attract a thief's attention.
• Check the occupants of the elevator before going in. If you feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and wait for the next one.
• Only list your first initial and last name for mailboxes and directory.
• Invest in a dead bolt on the door. This is extremely difficult to tamper with.
• Don't advertise when you are going to be away for a time and never leave a spare key with anyone you do not trust. Ask a friend to check your apartment everyone in a while if you are going to be away for longer periods of time.
• Know all emergency numbers, just in case.