While apartment living offers advantages you must also pay special attention to security.  Here some safety tips to follow:

          Lock Your Door

          Never leave your apartment door unlocked, even while taking out the trash or bringing in the groceries.  Yes, I know this can be a nuisance, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.  Before you go to bed at night make sure to check that both locks on your door are secure.  Remember, burglars are looking for a way in and through an open entry is the easiest.

            Know Who’s Knocking on your Door

          Be careful when answering the door and don’t open the door to strangers.  If the person who is knocking on your door identifies himself as a utility worker the ask them to slip their identification card under the door. 

          Be Social

          You should make an effort to meet your neighbors, learn their names, and their work schedules.   In essence, make more friends.  Because neighbors talk to each other, it’s likely that you will hear about problems that happen throughout the complex.

            Get a Pet

            Unfortunately, most apartment complexes do not allow big guard dogs, but you will have better luck getting the okay on a watch dog.  Remember, a barking dog, even a small one, can be enough to scare away a potential thief.

            Leave the Light On