10 Affordable Apartment Security Tips

Superbsecurity for folks who live in apartments, town homes or college dorm rooms doesn't have to be extravagant or complicated. These ten affordable ideas can help give you piece of mind and make you less vulnerable to robbery.

* Secure all windows. Make sure to include bathroom windows and other small windows. Place a broom stick or other corresponding device in the track of a sliding glass door. Cost: $2.00

* Never lay money on on a chain lock to secure your doors to the exterior. The key cylinder should be changed within the lock if the keys are lost and they clearly identify the section of your building or living quarters. This should also be done if the apartment was formerly occupied and you are the new renter.

Any stranger who does not cooperate should be reported to the police as a potential threat. Cost: $35.00

If you do not know the person who rang your intercom, do not "buzz" them in - even if they claim to be a friend of another lodger. Awkward perhaps, but you can always say "I'm sorry but I don't know you so I cant let you in." Cost: Free

* Cooperate with all other tenants in keeping the outer main doors locked. Do not permit strangers to enter the building as you are leaving or entering. The main entrance front door is a critical area for security. There must be a building codethat requires all nonresidents to be screened outside the main entrance door by the tenant who is being visited to prevent unauthorized access. Cost: Free

* Never place your full name on the identification slot, mailbox, or in the telephone directory. Smith" rather than John Taylor Smith. Also, do not leave messages or notes for the postman, paperboy, or manager advertising your absence. Have deliveries picked up by a friend or neighbor while on vacation. Cost: Free

* Be careful in carport areas. Lock your car. When entering or leaving, look around and make sure that no one is lurking in the area. If you do see someone loitering, leave immediately and notify the manager and/or the police. If there is a storage compartment in the carport, don't place heirloom items in them.

* Security lighting is an important aspect of security in the carport, as well as the stairwell, alley, recreation room, patio, and other common areas - both inside and out. Bulbs should be of sufficient wattage and burned-out bulbs should be replaced promptly - don't wait for building maintenance to do it - take charge yourself. Cost: $2.00

* Bypassusing the laundry room in your condo complex by yourself, especially at night. Develop a buddy system. A well organized and active tenant association is always very helpful, as are active Neighborhood Watch groups. Cost: Free

Wireless units like the LaserShield apartment alarm system require no installation and are movable when you move to another apartment or home. Motion sensors immediately detect an invader and emit a loud siren, and can also be professionally monitored. Cost: under $200.00.