Okay, real talk: the people who inhabit college dorms aren’t exactly angels. Some college students unfortunately become the victims of theft or break ins, which are zero fun, especially if the thieves manage to take off with your prized computer, gadgets, cash, or other valuables. Another danger is roommate theft, which can occur if you’re paired up with a particularly untrustworthy fellow. However, you probably don’t have the budget for a fancy security system. Here are some ways you can secure your dorm room and your valuables on a budget.
Secure Windows and Doors
Sometimes budding thieves will take the most obvious and easiest route into your dwelling. If you’ve left your ground floor window open and your laptop is sitting next to it on the desk, well someone could just reach in and take it with little fuss. Don’t make dorm theft easy – start by actually using the locks and closures included within your facilities. This means locking entryways when you aren’t present within a room or dwelling. You might consider this a hassle, because you’ve got to carry your key around. But replacing your valuable would be a greater hassle.
Cameras
Most consumer electronics come with a low-grade camera of some sort. Chances are, you’ve got a camera built into your laptop, mobile phone, or tablet. Before you get all Big Brother, make sure that you’re only recording your belongings – you don’t want to be the type of creepy person who records their roommate without their knowledge. Mobile devices, like camera phones, which access the web can be great for checking in on your room even while you’re away.
Dorm / Rental Insurance
Check in with your campus or local insurance companies to see what your policy options are and if you qualify for a student discount. Dorm or rental insurance can cover the cost of your belongings if they are destroyed during a natural disaster, soaked by fire sprinklers, or stolen out of your dwelling. While the monthly fees might seem a little steep, it can pay off if something happens to valuables.
Being aware of your belongings can help you later in life, when it comes to securing your future home, managing inventory at work, or securing a post-college rental. Having security and safety in mind can protect your valuables and peace of mind while in college. Talk to your roommates and make sure you’re all on the same page when it comes to protecting everyone’s stuff.
