Condos are generally safer since homes are adjoined. Your neighbors are literally just a wall away. However, there is always the threat of a prowler or intruder waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. Even in a tight-knit community, you can never be too careful. Please keep the following security tips in mind to ensure the safety of your family and community.
- Know Thy Neighbor
You don’t have to become besties with every person in your condo unit, but you should at least have a general recognition of most people by face. If you see someone you don’t recognize acting suspiciously, such as pacing back and forth around the community grounds, then that may be a red flag for you to alert the neighborhood watchman. Your neighbors may also be more inclined to help you if they are friendly with you. They may, for example, alert you that a stranger was peering through your window while you were out.
- Add a Chain Lock
This is such a simple and inexpensive addition that adds a whole layer of security. It’s surprising not more homeowners have one. A chain lock allows you to just partially open your door, allowing you to accept a parcel or get a better view of the person at the other end without fully opening the door. Most chain locks are quite sturdy and can even hold the door in place if someone tries to kick it open.
- Secure all Windows
There are only two points of entry in a home: a door or a window. The latter needs to be secured just as much as the door. Any window that slides on a track should be secured with a metal rod or wooden dowel when closed. You can also use a window stopper. The same goes for the patio glass door. Homeowners that live in a condo situated at ground level must especially take this precaution. This also applies towards upper floor condos with an outdoor hallway.
- Invest in a Light Switch Timer
Some people leave the lights or television on before leaving to give the impression that someone is home. This is a smart strategy, but it’s also an energy waster. What you can do instead is invest in a light switch timer that turns the lights on and off at regular intervals. Similarly, there are devices that simulate the flickering lights of a television. This uses far less energy compared to actually leaving the TV on.
- Install a Safe
If all else fails and an intruder makes his way into your home, you want to safeguard your most precious belongings. Most burglars are of the smash-and-grab variety, meaning they’re looking to grab whatever they can in plain sight and make a quickly getaway. Valuables like cash, important documents, and jewelry should be kept inside a safe. A burglar is unlikely to go out of his way to try to get it open. Aside from theft, a safe can also protect its contents from other disasters like a fire or flood.
These condo security measures wouldn’t be needed in a perfect world. Unfortunately, reality makes these precautions a necessity. These implementations won’t make your home 100% burglar-proof, but it will keep it from becoming an easy target.