Apartment Safety: Tips for Every Renter

Students on campuses tend to feel safe, and that’s good. College campuses are typically safe environments, but just like anywhere else, a dose of awareness and prevention is worth a pound of cure.

When renting an off campus apartment, it’s important that you choose a location that makes you feel safe. Good lighting in the parking lot, secure entrances, security cameras, and on-site security may be available in some college apartment complexes. This can lead to a false sense of security, so no matter where you live, follow these tips to keep yourself safe:

Know your surroundings. Before you exit your car to go to your apartment, look around and see who is in the area. If there are any suspicious characters, stay in your car. If your complex has security, call for an escort to your apartment.
As you head toward your apartment, have your keys available. You don’t want to be fumbling with your keys at your front door.
Keep your arms free as much as possible. Don’t make a habit of carrying two heavy loads of groceries in your arms. Make several trips to your car if needed, but keep at least one hand free.
Don’t ever leave your apartment door unlocked. When you are home, keep the door locked. Do not leave your door unlocked even when you make a quick trip to the laundry room. Some apartment complexes may even have ADT Security Systems installed within the premises. That can make tenants feel more at ease.

There are, of course, exceptions to these safety rules, but it’s best to be safe rather than sorry.