And for owners of multi-family buildings, it pays off to prioritize a secure environment for residents. Can we discuss security risks faced by multi-family properties and provide tips to reduce these threats?

Reassess Your Buildings’ Security Risks

Security risks are unique depending on the property type, the area where it is located, and even the time of the year. It’s not only important to stay up to date with news but police crime statistics, and historical data can be great tools to identify new property risks.

For example, if you’re concerned about security in Multi-Family Properties and the buildings are located in Chicago, you can use The Chicago Police Department Clear Map. The map allows you to to enter the property address and filter crime records by date and type. The results will then divide crimes into property or violent categories. Property crimes include: burglary, larceny/theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Once you identify and visualize the proximity of these crimes, it can help you decide which security measures are needed.

Lock your Doors and Windows

As a security expert, if we were ever going to stick with one recommendation that’s completely free, it would be: to develop a routine where you check all entry points to your property. We often repeat this because the most common points of entry for burglars are unlocked doors and windows.

If you find that there’s a breech in security, for example, tenants that leave the entrance door open or packages that are stolen, an access control system can help. An access control system can help you manage access and it’s a reliable solution to restrict multiple areas and buildings. Additionally, If units have sliding doors, provide a lock bar or rod to prevent these from being open.

Monitor and Update your Camera System

Many of our condominium and building clients opt to have cameras in each entrance. If you have a camera system, make it a habit to review footage everyday (or at least every other day) at a similar time. Regularly reviewing footage helps you spot unusual activity before it becomes a problem.

Additionally, scheduling maintenance checks every six months ensures your cameras are in top condition. Regular maintenance extends the life of your system and enhances the overall security in your multi-family property.

Improve Outdoor Lighting

Lights for multi-family properties can be both aesthetically appealing and help step up that feeling of being welcomed and safe. Well-lit entrances, walkways, parking lots, and garages discourage crime and help residents feel safe.

LED lights are a good option for parking lots because they use less electricity, provide uniform light, and produce less heat. Some additional features include auto turn on and off depending on the time of the day.

Remember to ask residents to report if any lights are not working and replace them in a timely manner. Taking prompt action demonstrates that you’re committed to providing a safe building.

Protect your Valuables

To protect valuable items, keep them out of sight from outside windows and doors where they might attract burglars. If package theft has been reported in the area, consider restricting access to the mailroom with smart locks or access control.

Ask building residents to avoid leaving expensive items, devices, and equipment in plain view. If possible, require that renters purchase insurance and keep a detailed list of items that could be claimed if there’s an incident.

Engage with Residents to Improve Security

A strong security culture starts with informed residents. Regularly engaging with residents through meetings, newsletters, and social media makes them active participants in keeping the property safe.

Additionally, owners should encourage residents to report crimes to the property manager immediately after making a police report. This allows management to keep track of incidents and to take additional action if needed.

When you provide a fast and secure way of communication, you’ll build trust for better resolutions and less crime.

By adopting these habits, property owners and residents can work together to create a secure and welcoming environment. Remember, proactive security measures not only protect your property but also enhance the quality of life for everyone who calls it home.

The post 6 Habits that Enhance Security in Multi-Family Properties appeared first on VinTech Systems.

I still remember the way I felt the day I learned the horrific news that a 26-year-old woman had been allegedly stabbed and sexually assaulted in her own home in Willowbrook.

I immediately shared this news with my team and we discussed ways in which we could help our community and clients feel safe. We reached out to our clients and advised them to arm their security systems at home and to keep their remote control panic button close.

Recently, we learned a few other homes had been invaded in different parts of Illinois. The fact is most people don’t know what to do during a home invasion. Most of us think  it won’t happen to us.

This morning, I came across a blog shared by a fellow ASIS member – Jordan Frankel (Security Experts Inc.)  and I just knew I needed to share these safety tips provided by a global security expert with our beloved clients and readers.

Read below for precautionary measures to reduce the risk of being a victim:

1. Reinforce your door frames and hinges.

Installing a security door brace that withstands a minimum of 1800 pounds of force will go a long way in preventing thugs from entering your home.

2. Treat all ground floor windows with glass protection film.

These protective window coatings can significantly slow down an intruder, supplying you the precious seconds needed to call the police or retreat to a predetermined safe room, such as a basement or locking closet with a reinforced door.

3. Lock windows and doors at all times.

Intruders will find any open windows, open doors or garages to get in your home. Make sure to always lock all windows, doors and garages to keep your home safe.

4. Install outdoor, high-intensity LED motion lighting

underneath a minimum of two roof-line eaves. Motion detection lighting is a fantastic way to startle and deter intruders.

5. Keep your alarm system set day and night.

Alarm systems are important components of any home security plan. However, a recent study suggests that up to 25% of homeowners neglect to set their alarm systems. No matter if its day or night, make sure you and your family members set your home’s alarm system.

6. In addition, ensure everyone is familiar with how to operate the keypad.

Most home security systems have a panic button located on the keypad. Knowing how to activate the panic button in an emergency can yield numerous benefits, including signaling the police to respond with higher priority than normal, which can speed up the overall response time. Alarm keypads also have the ability to display the zone or area of the home that was breached. Informing the 911 dispatcher of the intruder’s location on the premises can be extremely helpful to the police in apprehending the intruder.

7. Never open the door to a stranger.

If you aren’t expecting that person that claims to be a service technician, delivery man or police officer, do not open your door when they come knocking. Instead, ask for their name and the name of their employer, and then call the company or agency directly to verify their identity. If you suspect foul play of any kind, call 911 immediately.

Thank you Security Sensei for these valuable tips to prevent a home invasion!

For more home invasion tips, visit our blog How to Safely Escape a Home Invasion Part 1. 

The post Smart Security Tips to Prevent a Home Invasion appeared first on VinTech Systems.