Safety Reminders Before Moving In to Your New Dorm

Moving out to a new place can be exciting, particularly when it comes to planning the things you’ll be bringing to your dorm. While packing can be overwhelming, make sure that you don’t overlook the most important aspect of living in a new area- your security.

As a guide, here are a few safety reminders you can use before moving in.

Be prepared

Since disasters can happen unexpectedly, you need to have emergency items prepared. Make sure you pack spare batteries, flashlights and a radio when you move. It’s also a good idea of you can bring with you some canned foods just in case you’ll need them.

Before you actually move in, you should also communicate with your dorm mates and the people running the place about safety protocols, emergency exit plans and disaster management. As much as possible, familiarize yourself with the place.

Utilize the buddy system

This is one of the most effective ways to ensure your safety in your dorm. If you have a roommate, talk to each other about establishing accountability. Make sure that you have each other’s number so that when one of you isn’t home yet by curfew hours, you’ll be able to check on each other.

Keep your valuables safe

Moving in to a new place doesn’t only mean living in an unfamiliar environment; it also means living with strangers.

As much as possible, keep your valuables away from sight. This includes your jewelry, money and expensive gadgets. For a more comprehensive security, you can consider investing in a DIY security system that you can take with you whenever and wherever you move. One good example is the Novi Portable Security System.

Change your locks

Changing your locks prior to moving in is very critical. Since you’ll be living in a dorm room, you’ll never know how many people have access to its lock. When finding replacements, try to stay away from traditional locks as they are very weak against picking and bumping.

Try to find locks that extend deep into your door frames to strengthen its capability to withstand brute force. You can consider Nucli deadbolt from Westinghouse. Aside from functioning as a smart lock, it’s also a smart doorbell that features two-way communication. It can even let you know who is at your front door even if you’re not physically there to answer it.

Know your emergency phone numbers

In case of an emergency, it’s important that you know the people who can help you and how you can reach out to them. Since you’ll be living in an area away from your family, knowing the numbers of your local police, fire department and hospital can give you added security and peace of mind.

Store their numbers on your mobile phone and create a copy which you can keep in your room. Place it in an area where you can easily grab it, such as your desk or your vanity area.

Author’s Bio:
Rose Cabrera is the lead content writer for TopSecurityReview.com. She writes in-depth security system reviews and tips and tricks to improve home safety.