The Sunshine State welcomes thousands of new residents each year, seeking warmer weather and a more laid-back atmosphere. Because of this, housing demands have steadily increased across the state, leading to a boom in the apartment industry. Renters and buyers alike have a larger-than-ever selection to choose from. With so many to choose from, how can you determine which apartment building is the safest option? Through this article, we will explore common safety concerns and what features set other buildings apart.
Fire Safety
When touring apartments, take note of any fire safety measures such as alarms, extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and clearly marked exits. Effective fire safety requires a diversified approach, as relying on a single method could be insufficient or fail altogether. It only takes thirty seconds for a small flame to become a major fire that can quickly spread to neighboring units in just minutes. Because of how fast fires can become deadly, fire safety is a critical aspect of the apartment building’s overall safety. Be sure to ask the building management team about the building’s fire safety plan, as it is their responsibility to have an outlined procedure detailing evacuation. By opening up the conversation about fire safety, you will be able to determine how seriously the apartment owners or management takes your family’s well-being.
Secure Entrances
Depending on the location of the building, property owners and managers may be required to provide adequate security measures for tenants. Many apartments utilize digital locks activated by key cards or codes to prevent unauthorized guests from wandering the premises. This is a must-have for buildings as it provides residents with a safe environment ensuring privacy from solicitors and other uninvited parties. Aside from deterring solicitors, this proactive security measure also reduces the risk of crime, burglary, and vandalism in the building. Some apartments even extend this feature into parking garages preventing strangers from cruising through the garage.
Lighting
Proper lighting is another must-have for apartment complexes. Good lighting acts as a deterrent for criminals as they are less likely to go unnoticed by security or residents. In addition, security cameras will be able to capture clearer video compared to those recording in improper lighting. A few areas that would benefit from proper lighting include parking garages, parking lots, hallways, stairwells, and outdoor paths. Not only would the risk of criminal activity be reduced, but accidents on the premises as well. In dim or heavily reduced lighting, the likelihood of slips and trips rises, leading to avoidable accidents. Apartment buildings should utilize lighting to their benefit as it greatly reduces the chances for trespassers to wander unnoticed and reduces the chances of preventable falls.
Surveillance
One of the most common forms of security used by apartment buildings is surveillance systems. Cameras can often be found both in and outside of the building in plain view with accompanying signage. Surveillance systems can be a strong deterrent while allowing management to maintain a clear view of the property. Areas that should utilize cameras include hallways, common areas, designated parking, and entrances. In many cases, visible cameras paired with proper lighting can be enough to make strangers think twice before trespassing.
Surveillance systems are an essential tool when it comes to creating and maintaining a safe environment for tenets. Not only can they be smart deterrents, but cameras are also pivotal in spotting emergencies before they can become bigger issues. Relating back to fire safety, cameras can easily spot smoke from under doorways into main hallways.
Apartment hunting can be both exciting and stressful, especially for those new to the area. With these safety tips in mind, though, you can rest assured that whichever apartment you choose, you’ve picked a safe option to come to. Looking to learn more? Check out this article next to learn more additional safety tips.