What would you do if you were at home, in a low-crime area, and walked into the living room to discover that your entire computer was missing right off your desk? By following these simple steps you can help avoid becoming a victim to robbery.
Change Your Locks
Before you even move a single box into your new home the locks should be changed. However, this is where renters stop thinking. What good does a new lock do if you only use it when you leave for long periods of time? If you’re not in your home, it needs to be locked and if you are at home … it still needs to be locked. Renters should also place dowels in sliding doors and windows to prevent them from being opened.
Security Alarm Systems
While some renters are not allowed to install permanent alarm systems, there are some great portable systems available. Magnetic contact alarms can also be cheaply installed on windows and doors. Your alarm system does not have to be advanced enough to automatically contact the police in the event of a break-in. A criminal only needs a few minutes inside. Most are smart enough to be long gone before an officer arrives on the scene. A loud alarm instantly draws the attention of potential witnesses. That’s what a thief is scared of.
Think Ahead
Many criminals will scope out a home before breaking in. If you’re going to be gone for a week on vacation, leave a light on and have a friend pick up any mail, newspapers or other items that could be left on your door.
Don’t advertise the fact that you live all alone. If you live alone that instantly makes you more vulnerable. If you have a publicly visible mailbox, stick another name on there to throw off any potential bad guys. This is especially good advice for single women.
The last thing you should do is invest in renters insurance. By being proactive with your home security you can help avoid trouble but being insured is a wise choice for any renter.
For more security or overall rental tips, call us at (913) 766-2191 EXT. 2 or read more about our Renters Support Resources
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