If you were locked out of your apartment, would you still be able to get in? Maybe you keep an unlocked window in the back or a hidden key in your mailbox or on top of a window ledge? You may think this is a good idea, but guess what? If you can break in, so can a burglar!
Check Locks:
Did you know that in almost half of all completed residential burglaries, thieves simply breezed in through unlocked doors or crawled through unlocked windows?
Make sure every external apartment door is locked.
Sliding glass doors can offer easy access if they are not properly secured. You can secure them by putting a broomstick or dowel in the inside track to jam the door.
Instead of hiding keys around the outside of your apartment home, give an extra key to a neighbor you trust.
Check Doors:
An unlocked apartment door is about as effective as locking your car door but leaving the window down.
Check Outside:
Look at your apartment from the outside. Make certain that you are aware of the following:
Thieves hate bright lights. Report any outside lights that have burned out and keep lights on at night, use timers that will turn lights on and off in different locations in your apartment throughout the evening.
Lights burning 24 hours a day signal an empty apartment buy a light timer for a main room lamp and a bedroom lamp.
Leave shades, blinds and curtains in normal positions.
If you receive the Sunday newspaper don’t let them pile up! Call the provider to stop delivery or have a neighbor pick them up.
Make a list of your valuables and/or video record them—computers, cameras, home theater systems, CD’s, DVD’s,
valuable art, jewelry etc. Take photos of the items and list heir serial numbers and descriptions. Check with law
enforcement about engraving your valuables through “Operation Identification.”
Burglars Do More Than Steal:
Burglars can commit rape, robbery and assault if they are surprised by someone coming apartment or if they choose a apartment that is occupied.
If something looks questionable—a slit screen, a broken window or an open door—DON’T GO IN. Call the police from your cell phone, a neighbor’s home, or a public phone.
At night, if you think you hear someone breaking in, leave safely if you can, then call the police. If you can’t leave, lock
yourself in a room with a phone and call the police. If an intruder is in your room, pretend you are asleep.
NEVER leave a message on your answering machine that indicates you may be away from home, say instead, “I’m not available right now.”
