Living on your own can be exciting, but it can also be a little frightening. It is extremely important to make sure that your safety is the top priority and it all begins with your apartment search. If you are in the process of looking for an apartment or you are already moved in and living on your own, the following tips can help you make sure that you are safe while living alone.
Secured Building
If you are currently searching for an apartment, pay close attention to those that offer a secured building. You may not be able to afford one that has its own doorman but look for one that is gated. In other words, for anyone to get into the building, they must be let in by a tenant or have a key.
If you are unable to find a place that is safely secured, then make sure you make the property look as though there is only one person living there. Make sure you keep plenty of lights on when it’s dark out and keep the curtains closed. Invite people over every now and again to make the property look busy.
Extra Locks
While the landlord is responsible for changing the locks on your apartment before you move in, be sure to inquire about extra locks for your own security. A deadbolt will help prevent a break-in while you are sleeping. There are also gadgets you can invest in that will ensure no intruder can ever bust down your door to get in. Door Defense reinforces your doorway deadbolt to make sure you stay safe!
Security System
Thankfully, security systems are affordable and just about everyone can afford to have one placed in their apartment. This added security is just one more step in protecting yourself. Whether it is a simple door or window alarm or a more elaborate system, you will find that you will sleep better at night knowing it is there.
Having a well-lit home is another great tactic for keeping the property safe. Proper lighting outside the home or apartment can help deter potential criminals from stepping foot near or on the property. After all, the last thing they want to do is get caught. BrightLight is a motion-activated light that you can place anywhere outside the property to help keep unwanted guests away.
More importantly, installing security cameras can help you feel much safer and better keep burglars away. “Up to 88% burglars would not attack the home if it has a surveillance camera system.” You can purchase these cameras for the inside or outside of the home and monitor the footage from your phone.
Get to Know Other Tenants
It is also important that you take some time to get to know the other tenants in the building. If they see something odd happening, they will more likely to contact you if they have actually met you. However, until you get to know someone better, be careful of just how much personal information you are giving out.
Living alone can be frightening, but it can also be one of the best experiences you ever have. You can be happy living alone, but you do have to take some precautionary measures to make sure you stay safe. Along with the above tips, be sure that you do a quick safety check on your apartment. If any windows or doors do not shut or lock properly, contact your landlord immediately to have them repaired. Remember, your safety is the most important thing.
