Valparaiso is a quiet and safe community, but a little precaution never hurt anyone. If a burglar thinks your apartment is “easy pickings,” it could become a target…even if the fanciest thing you own is a VCR with a copy of Dirty Dancing stuck in it. Why not make things difficult for that burglar? In this article, we’ll discuss the things you can do to protect your apartment without spending big money on armed guards and snarling dogs.
Lock it up
Some of the best burglar deterrents are already in your apartment. What are they? The locks on your doors and windows. Thirty percent of burglaries occur because doors, windows or other entryways are not locked. A simple twist of the wrist to lock a door or window will prevent a burglar from making an easy entry, even the best and biggest lock on the strongest door is worthless if it isn’t used.
Social Media
It’s practically impossible to avoid snapping a picture of your ocean view and slapping a killer filter on it. That’s what vaccation is all about, right? If you enjoy keeping your family and friends updated on your vacation whereabouts via Facebook and other social media, you might be inviting trouble to your apartment — literally.
Burglars love social media because people tend to post real-time details about vacations or work trips that let the bad guys know there’s no one home, so consider taking a vacation from social media when on vacation. Avoid announcements (even if it’s tempting) that you’re going to be in another country for the next few weeks and share vacation photos after the vacation.
Security doesn’t have to be pricey
Online shopping is magical. Where else can you buy detergent, home decor, clothes, and a carburetor all in the same place, and with 2-day free shipping? The highly rated Master Lock Dual Function Security Bar from Amazon can help prevent unwanted entry for just $19.98. Amazon also offers a range of outlet timers such as this pair from Woods for only $8.82 that can be used to turn lights off and on when no one is home, giving your apartment the illusion of occupancy. Walmart also offers GE’s Window/Door Alarm available for just $16.99.*
An article in the Chicago Tribune noted, “In apartments versus single-family houses, these devices can be more effective because the residences aren’t so spread out.” One police officer said of wireless alarms in general, “They make a loud noise. Someone’s not going to stick around if one goes off.”
Everyone deserves to feel safe and secure in their apartment. Unfortunately, there are criminals out there looking for their next easy target. Take your home off their consideration list by putting into place these simple and cost-effective strategies.
Call us today to schedule a tour or your next apartment, town home, or house rental with MJF Rentals in Valparaiso at (219) 477-4555.