Living in a shared community means shared responsibility. A few simple habits can go a long way in keeping everyone safe.

Securing Your Unit: Your first line of defense is keeping all entry points locked

• Lock windows and doors even when you're home and double-check that they are secure before leaving or going to bed.
• Use deadbolts and peepholes where possible.
• Sliding doors need extra protection. Place a rod or dowel in the track for added security.
• Check window locks and consider alarms or security film on ground-floor windows.
• Close your blinds or curtains at night to protect your privacy.
• Store valuables, jewelry, and important documents in a fireproof safe.
• Where allowed, consider renter-friendly security like smart doorbells or portable alarms.

Building and Community Safety

• Don't allow anyone to "tailgate" or follow you into a secured building or garage.
• Only allow access to people you know or who can verify their purpose.
• Never prop open exterior or fire doors.
• Report broken locks, cameras, or lighting immediately.
• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts in elevators, garages, and other shared spaces.
• Avoid entering laundry rooms, garages, or storage areas alone, especially late at night.
• Report suspicious behavior immediately to building management or the police department.
• Immediately report and replace lost keys, entry fobs, or garage remotes.

Get to Know Your Neighbors: A connected community is a safer community 

• Introduce yourself to nearby residents so you'll recognize familiar faces.
• Look out for one another and notify your neighbors if you notice something unusual.
• Take the time to attend tenant or condo association meetings to stay informed.

Parking and Common Areas

• Park in well-lit spaces and report any dark spots in shared garages.
• Pause when entering or exiting garages to ensure the door fully closes behind you.
• Don't store valuables on balconies, decks, or other open shared spaces.
• Lock your vehicle and remove or hid valuables before leaving it.
• Always remove your keys from your vehicle and never leave it unattended with the engine running.
• Be mindful of your surroundings as you walk to and from your car.

Fire Safety

• Familiarize yourself with your building's emergency exits, evacuation plans, and security systems.
• Keep fire extinguishers in your unit and learn where they are located in shared spaces.
• Never use an elevator during a fire.
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly and replace any batteries every six months.
• In the event of an evacuation, close your doors behind you.

When You're Away

• Use timers for your lights or televisions.
• Hold your mail and package deliveries or ask a neighbor for help.
• Avoid leaving packages unattended. Consider using curbside pickup options instead.

If Something Feels Wrong

• Call the police department or building security if you feel threatened.
• Be ready to share clear details (who, what, where, etc.) when reporting suspicious activity.
• Find more information on reporting suspicious activity here.

A safe community starts with you. Staying aware, reporting concerns, and looking out for one another helps keep apartment and condominium communities safe for everyone. Let's work together to reduce the opportunity for crime and keep Clayton a safe community!