As the renter of a Branson, MO apartment, you need to know home safety and good habits to use in your home so you can prevent any incident that can threaten the life and well-being of any member of your household. In this article, you will learn some essential safety tips that could keep your household and your living space safe at all times.

You can make your home safer even if security systems are in place

Even if you install a high-tech security systems in your Branson, MO apartment, employing the basics first is equally important. Don't just depend on your security system. Ensure that all the locks on your windows work properly and if you find windows with no locks, install locks right away. Keep all doors locked, including your garage doors, all of the time. 

All your windows need to have blinds or curtains to keep your valuables out of sight. All the door entries to your home should have pick-resistant deadbolts. Avoid keeping a spare key outside of your home.

Another great way to be prepared for any untoward incident in your apartment is to have a disaster plan so you can respond to an emergency quickly. Even if your home has a high-end monitoring system in place, you still need to be prepared for events such as power outages, natural disasters, or any other emergencies.

It's a good idea to install an app on your phone, like Red Cross Emergency, as this can provide live updates and recommendations on disasters happening around your area. These alerts include alerts regarding  fires, tornadoes, lightning strikes, earthquakes, and hurricanes. Prepare also for any power outages by having candles, flashlights, matches, coolers, and a radio handy.

Electrical and fire safety to keep things clear

Having fire insurance is important for every homeowner, but you still need to learn fire safety basics. One helpful way is to keep fabrics away from heating vents and follow appropriate precautions by storing hazardous chemicals in a safe place away from flammable objects.

Avoid using extension cords to replace permanent wiring or for more than one appliance. Don't run electrical cords under rugs, through walls, or ceiling panels. These areas release heat and pose a fire hazard. When you find out that the cord feels hot, don't run the appliance.

Another good fire safety tip is to place smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your living space. If you use a fireplace, have your chimney inspected every two years and keep it covered with a mesh screen spark arrestor.

Safety with children, elders, and pets

If you have children, elders, and pets living with you, assess your home for any safety needs. Listed below are some of the safety tips that you should consider:

·         Install child-proofing devices indoors, on sharp table corners, electrical outlets, and toilets.

·         Keep any firearms and other weapons in a gun safe.

·         Make sure all medications are out of reach of children.

·         Make sure that the flooring tiles have no cracks or damage.

·         Make sure that all footpaths are clear of electrical cords, clutter, and unnecessary items to prevent falls.

·         Finally, don't forget to add a rubber mat inside your bathtub to prevent slipping.

Keep intruders at bay

Criminals often look for homes where no one is home. If there isn't any security measure in place, the intruders will find it easy to ransack your home. Below are some tips to prevent criminals from scouting your home while you're on vacation:

·         Keep all your valuables locked inside a safe.

·         Avoid posting on social media about your whereabouts. Instead of doing it, use mail or text to inform your friends.

·         Install motion-sensor lights outside your home that turn on when someone moves around.

·         Use smart home devices to program indoor lights to turn on during the evening.

Bathroom safety tips

When you want to prevent unexpected incidents in your home, make sure you have a safe bathroom:

·         Make sure any electrical appliances are unplugged when not in use.

·         Place a slip-proof mat in your shower.

·         Place a bath mat in front of the bath or shower to prevent slipping when wet.

·         Mold can easily develop in the bathroom where warm moisture and still air can grow. So it's important to regularly check for mold and use bleach to clean your bathtub at least once a week to prevent mold growth.

Outdoor areas need security too

Your home's landscape is the easiest area for intruders to enter. Beyond the surveillance and a smart doorbell, you need to add more safety to your home. Install a fence with a locked gate around your home to provide privacy and add an extra layer of security.

Whether you are just starting to raise a family or have retired and are living in a Branson, MO apartment, you should always consider your home’s safety a top priority.



Thousand Hills Realty is the premier property management company in Branson, MO. If you are looking for a Branson apartment to call home, contact us at 417-337-8081.