Living in an apartment comes with its own set of security challenges. While high-rise buildings and apartment complexes might seem inherently secure, residents still need to be proactive about their personal safety. Here's a guide for renters to ensure a safe living environment in an apartment setting.
Research Before Renting:
Before signing the lease, research the neighborhood's crime rate. Websites and mobile apps can provide crime maps and safety ratings. Ask the current residents or the property manager about security concerns and incidents.
Secure the Entry Points:
# Doors: Always lock your doors, even when you're home. Consider adding a deadbolt or a security bar for extra protection. If you're moving into an apartment where someone else previously lived, ask to have the locks changed.
# Windows: Ground-floor apartments are especially vulnerable. Ensure windows have locks and consider adding window sensors or security film.
Know Your Neighbors:
Building a rapport with your neighbors is not only socially beneficial but also adds a layer of security. Neighbors can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity and vice versa.
Light It Up:
Dark corners can be inviting for intruders. Ensure common areas like hallways, parking lots, and laundry rooms are well-lit. Inside your apartment, use timers or smart plugs to turn on lights at specific times, making it appear occupied even when you're not home.
Avoid Advertising Absence:
If you're going on vacation, don't broadcast it on social media. Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail or have deliveries paused. A full mailbox or packages at the door signal that no one's home.
Invest in Security Gadgets:
Consider adding a doorbell camera or a security camera facing your main entrance of your student housing in Reno. If drilling or hardwiring isn't allowed, there are plenty of wire-free cameras available. Personal security systems, which don't require a complex installation, can also be valuable.
Be Cautious with Spare Keys:
It might be tempting to leave a spare key under the doormat or in a plant pot, but these are the first places burglars check. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted friend or family member.
Renters' Insurance:
While not directly a security measure, renters' insurance can provide peace of mind. It can cover the cost of stolen items and damage from break-ins.
Be Vigilant of Security in Common Areas:
Never let strangers follow you into gated complexes or buildings. If you see a door propped open, close it.
Voice Concerns:
If you notice broken lights, malfunctioning gates, or other security concerns, notify your property manager promptly.
Conclusion
While apartments might offer the illusion of security due to their close-knit setting and multiple units, individual safety practices are indispensable. Being proactive, aware, and invested in your apartment's security can go a long way in ensuring a safe living environment. Remember, safety always starts with awareness.
