You moved into your new apartment just a few weeks ago. It is a nice quiet place and you would like to keep it that way. Apartment crimes can happen since it is difficult to keep track of who is coming or going and who lives where. Follow some of the sound advice in this article to stay safe and enjoy the tranquility of your apartment for a long time.

Getting Started

Let us use our common sense when it comes to securing your dwelling place. Some essential precautions you can take to keep out burglars include:

• Keep your door locked (this also includes balcony/patio doors). Use those deadbolts and chains!

• Shut and lock your windows when you are not home.

• Do not advertise when you are gone. This may include leaving notes with instructions to friends or delivery personnel or leaving the door ajar/unlocked when just running to the corner store.

• Check out your peephole (if you have one)

• Do not “buzz” people up unless you are expecting them. It is okay to ask for identification.

• Do not leave a spare key anywhere outside of your apartment, even if you think you live in a safe community.

• Do not put your full name on your nameplate.

• Keep your mouth quiet about your fun new expensive PS3 or flat screen. You never know who is listening.

• When out of town, have a reliable friend or neighbor stay at your place or go by at least once a day.

Covering all the bases

It is never a bad idea to invest in a few extra precautionary items to keep your belongings belonging to you. Here are a few ideas for extra security options:

• Install motion-sensor lights out on your balcony or patio, or any other area where it would be easy for a burglar to enter.

• Take everything out of your car when you are parked overnight. It may be annoying, but it will not tempt robbers to break into your car, and it may even help you to keep your car a little more organized and less cluttered.

• If you are without a chain or deadbolt, get them installed (with the permission of the landlord, of course).

• Install an alarm system of some sort. These come in a variety of options, including:
- A dog (the best option to me personally; fun, cuddly, lovable, and protective)
- Motion-sensor alarms (for inside use) These can be found at hardware stores and do not have to be hardwired into the apartment. (this keeps the landlord happy).

• Bracing windows or sliding doors.