Use Common Sense

• It's wise to take precautions to protect your TV, stereo, computer, money and your life. Your goal is to deter criminals from trying to break into your apartment; therefore, you want to eliminate all signs guaranteeing an easy entrance.
  
  The most important step is to just use common sense. For instance, lock the door when you leave. Don't leave the windows open all day long. Don't tape little notes on the door directed at friends saying you left the door open for them.
  
  There are two different situations for which you'll need to prepare:
  
  When you're not on vacation
  When you're on vacation
  
  When you're not on vacation:
  
  1. Always lock your doors and windows when you're not home.
  2. Never leave your door ajar (or unlocked) when you just "run out to the corner store." In the time it takes you to run downstairs to the laundry room, your stereo and CDs could be gone.
  3. It is possible that you could walk in on a crime in progress. If you suspect someone is your apartment, do not enter it under any circumstances. Call the police immediately.
  4. Never "buzz anyone up" or let anyone in whom you don't know. If that repairman or tenant-who-forgot-her-keys turns out to be a burglar, you not only put your safety at risk, but you'll also become the schmuck who let the burglar into the building. So always turn away a "repairman" you didn't call, and always insist on seeing identification and a work order from a repairman you did call. If they can't produce these items, send them on their way and call the cops.
  5. Never leave a spare key anywhere outside of your apartment. Leave a spare with the doorman (if you have one) or with a next-door neighbor.
  6. Do not write your full name on your nameplate near the front door of the building (if your building has such options). Instead, just write either your last name and first initial, or just your last name. This is especially true for women living alone who tend to be targets--potential criminals will look for women's names and go there first.
  7. Do not be overly ostentatious about expensive possessions. Remember, you want to minimize the lure of your place. So don't waltz around telling everyone about your new toys--you never know who's listening.
  
  When you're on vacation:
  
  1. If you have any very valuable possessions (expensive jewelry, priceless art), take them with you or leave them with a responsible friend (or in a bank safety-deposit box).
  2. Install timers for your lights and television to give the illusion of occupancy. These are inexpensive and available at any hardware store, Target or Wal-Mart.
  3. Don't allow your newspapers or mail to pile up. Remember, criminals are observant. Get a trusted neighbor to pick your stuff up for you.
  4. Just in case the unthinkable happens, have pictures and/or a list of valuable possessions to give to the police and insurance company. You're probably not going to see your TV again, but your insurance may cover theft.
  5. The best idea: Get a reliable friend to house-sit for you.