With the worsening world economy, more and more people are getting desperate to earn. Some may take several jobs, and some may resort to illegal activities. In these tough times, apartment renters, like you, should be one step ahead of home invaders. Preventing burglaries do not need to be expensive. Even high-end security systems are useless if you are not taking the necessary steps in protecting your family and your property. Here are a few apartment safety tips to consider:
Doors, Windows and Locks
It’s a no-brainer that you should lock all entrances to your home all the time, even when you aren’t there. People living in friendly neighborhoods are especially susceptible to this kind of mistake.
Around 30 percent of burglaries occur through an open entryway of the home. Unlocked doors and windows are vulnerable to attacks. Most intruders and burglars aim to leave the home as soon as they’re done, spending only eight to 12 minutes inside of a home, leaving people unaware of the incident until it’s too late.
Make sure that you constantly check the locks in all doors and windows when leaving the apartment and before going to bed. Involve everyone in your family. Also, don’t let your children answer doors, especially to strangers. Enroll them in after-school classes and activities so that they won’t be at home alone while you are at work. Have a plan in case they get home early.
Also, don’t leave your keys in obvious places—flower pots, welcome mats and fake rocks. Leave them to trustworthy neighbors or, better yet, make copies for every adult in your family.
Lights
Intruders will not go near a place where they can easily be seen. Make sure that your porch, garden or play area is well-lit, especially at night. Even windows should have lights to ward off anyone who is trying to sneak in. Trim the bushes around the home, and saw off some of the branches on nearby trees that could be blocking sunlight. If you cannot see the street through your window, then it is very vulnerable.
Make sure that all lights are working at least once a month. If you can afford it, install motion sensor floodlights around the apartment, especially at the back area as this is a very common entrance for burglars. Also, if possible, avoid privacy fences that block the view of your garden from the neighbors.
Alarms and Security Systems
According to statistics from the FBI, most burglaries happen between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when most of your family members are either at school or at work.
Of course, you cannot be at home all the time. Invest in reliable home security systems. First, assess your needs by understanding your location. Are you living in a high-crime area? Ask the local government for reports about home invasion in nearby communities. Once you are certain about the safety of your location, install appropriate systems. Research and understand how to install them and how they work. This way, you can make sure that the system works and is foolproof.
Do not display the brand name or the type of system that you are using for everyone to see. It is easier for thieves to deactivate a system they are familiar with. You may want to consider installing wireless systems to avoid vulnerable wires.
Get a Pet
Animals make loud noises when their territories are invaded. Some trained dogs even attack when they sense danger. It adds to the layer of security in your home, and unwanted guests are less likely to choose your apartment.
A case in Ladonia, Alabama, proved that pets can be effective in driving off intruders. WSFA reported about a boxer named Bama who prevented a second break-in in the home of its owner, Michael Stephens. A full-time property manager, Stephens collected thousands of dollars-worth of scrap metal, which he kept in his backyard. An earlier burglary prompted Stephens to install security systems around his property. It turned out, however, that his best defense was his best friend: his dog, Bama.
“The second they kicked that gate in, my dog charge[d] at them and chased them out of here,” Stephens said during an interview.
Check the nearest animal rescue center. Most of these centers train rescued dogs to be security animals. Plus, you don’t have to spend a lot of money for breeds that are difficult to care for. If there are no trained security animals available, adopt any type of dog. The bark is more important than the bite. You are also helping these animals to find a loving home.
Be a Good Neighbor
Befriend the people who are around you. Join the homeowners’ club in your community. Nothing beats friends who are willing to take care of your family and property.
Friends can be very helpful, especially when you and your family are away for more than a day. An apartment that doesn’t look lived-in is vulnerable to attacks by burglars and intruders. Ask neighbors to collect your daily newspaper so that they don’t pile on your front door. Better yet, ask a trusted friend to stay in your home while you’re gone. This may be the vacation that they need, and you are also keeping your property safe.
Don’t Show Off
This is especially important in urban areas with high crime-rate. No thief would be interested in your property unless you give them a reason to be. Be a little discreet when purchasing expensive appliances. Have it delivered at the back at the earliest time possible to avoid observing eyes and nosy neighbors.
Televisions, computers, laptops and any valuables should not be left within a few meters from your windows. Make sure that these appliances cannot be seen from the outside. They attract burglars and your home might become a target. Install blinds and curtains for added protection.
Being creative in preventing unwanted guests and home invaders should be at the top of your family’s priority list. You are not only protecting the things that you worked hard for, but you are also ensuring the safety of your loved ones. Always be informed and stay updated with local news. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Emily Harper is a housewife and blogger. She is also an active member of their neighborhood watch and passionate about empowering families on ensuring safety. You can read more of her works on her blog www.securityocean.com.
Learn more about online rent pay through WilliamPaid.
