No one should go to bed worried about their apartment being broken into. While it’s often easy to think “that will never happen to me,” it is important to still be mindful of everyday safety. Full alarm systems can be pricey, but check out the inexpensive ways to promote your own safety below!

• Keep your telephone ringer on the quiet side. When your phone rings and rings loud enough for the apartment complex to hear, everyone is sure to know your home is empty.

• Install a motion sensor light in your front or back yard. The beaming light is helpful in discouraging a night time break in.

• See if there is a neighborhood watch group in your town. It is free to join and obliging to be a part of a community of members who are dedicated to the safety of their fellow neighbors.

• Add timer switches to a few lamps in your home. They will come on for a specific amount of time when you are away for the night or even the week, in order to give the perception that someone is home.

• Make friends with your groundskeeper and/or janitor. It never hurts to have a friendly eye watching your home- while you are home and away.

• Replace the old locks on all of your doors and windows. If you in the leasing process, discuss this with your landlord before move in.

• Make surprise visits to your own home. Try to come home on your lunch break once every week or so; you will break any pattern intruders may be scoping out.

• If you leave your home for an extended period of time, whether for a holiday or vacation, put your mail and newspaper delivery on hold or ask a neighbor to pick it up for you.

• Sometimes it is the simplest things we forget, such as closing and locking your windows and locking all doors behind you. Before you rush out of your apartment, make sure your home’s safety is still a priority.

• As discussed again and again, renter’s insurance is so important. If something were to ever happen, you want to know that you will be able to rightfully replace all of your belongings.

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Following these basic tips can really make a difference in you and your family’s safety at home. We all have been in living situations that we have learned from; please share your own stories and tips regarding apartment safety!