Boosting Apartment Security: Simple Steps for Peace of Mind

Although apartments can sometimes lack the same level of security inherent to a house, by taking a few proactive measures you can significantly enhance the safety of your apartment. With the exception of an apartment safe, many of the ideas listed below will need to be approved by the landlord. Make sure to consider your unique situation when determining which options are best suited for your needs.

1. Reinforce doors and windows:

• Sturdy locks: Upgrade door locks to high-quality deadbolts with strong, durable cylinders. Consider installing a peephole to identify visitors before opening the door.
• Window locks: Ensure all windows are equipped with secure locks, even those on higher floors. This article describes the installation process for a few different types of window locks.
• Security bars: For ground-floor and garden-level windows or sliding glass doors, consider installing security bars for added deterrence.

2. Enhance visibility:

• Motion-activated lights: Install motion-activated lights outside your entrance and along walkways. This both deters potential intruders and also illuminates your surroundings at night.
• Trim landscaping: Keep bushes and trees trimmed back from windows and doors to prevent hiding spots for unwanted visitors.
• Security cameras: Consider installing cameras in locations of particular concern. If using a security camera, make sure to research the cybersecurity of the camera itself.

3. Secure Valuables:

• Home safe: Investing in a small safe for an apartment is crucial for protecting your most valuable possessions if an intruder does make it into your home. A small safe offers a secure and discreet place to store jewelry, important documents, cash, and other valuables. When selecting an apartment safe, consider factors such as fire resistance, size, and ease of use. The best safe for an apartment will fit comfortably within your space without being too conspicuous.
• Fire resistance: Opt for a fire-resistant apartment safe to protect your valuables from fire damage. Look for safes with a fire-resistance rating that meets your specific needs.
• Size and placement: Choose a small safe that is large enough to suit your needs while also fitting in the available space in your apartment. Consider placing the apartment safe in a discreet location, such as a closet or a hidden corner. If possible, bolt the safe to the floor in this location. Anchored safes provide the best possible security and fire protection.
• Ease of Use: Select an apartment safe that is easy to use and open. Look for models with user-friendly locks and keypads. A small biometric safe can be especially useful in an apartment.

4. Personal Safety Practices:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention when entering and exiting your building – note abnormal sights, smells, and sounds.
• Don't open the door to strangers: We all learned about stranger danger as kids, and the adage still applies today; if you're unsure of someone's identity, don't open the door. Use the peephole or intercom system to verify who they are.
• Vary your routine: If possible, keep your departure and arrival times unpredictable to make it harder for potential intruders to learn your schedule.
• Report suspicious activity: If you notice anything unusual, report it to building management or local law enforcement immediately.

Implementing these simple yet effective measures can significantly enhance the safety and security of your apartment. A proactive approach to security is the best way to ensure peace of mind and enjoy a safe and comfortable living environment.

We recommend the Cocono 20 small safe for apartments. Compact enough to inconspicuously fit in most small apartments, it is nonetheless a burly, well-built safe. The 90 minute fire rating and tamper alarm system make this small biometric safe particularly well-suited for apartments.