Category: Living on Your Own

Home Safety Check

Moving into a new apartment is exciting, but before you settle in, take a few minutes to make sure your new home is safe.

A simple safety check can help identify potential hazards, prepare you for emergencies, and give you peace of mind. Most of these tasks only take a few minutes but can make a significant difference if something unexpected happens.

Think of this as your “walk-through” before you truly make the apartment your home.

Start at the Front Door

Your front door is your first line of security.

Check that:

The door closes properly.
The deadbolt locks securely.
The door handle isn’t loose.
The peephole (if installed) provides a clear view.
Weather stripping is intact.

If anything doesn’t work properly, notify your landlord immediately.

Test Every Lock

Walk through the apartment and check every accessible window and exterior door.

Make sure:

Locks engage completely.
Windows open and close properly.
Sliding doors lock securely.
Screens fit correctly.

Never assume locks have been checked before you moved in.

Locate Emergency Exits

Know how to leave your apartment safely during an emergency.

Identify:

Primary exit
Secondary exit
Stairwells
Emergency exits
Building evacuation routes

If you live in a larger apartment complex, familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

Test Smoke Detectors

Press the test button on every smoke detector.

Listen for the alarm.

If one doesn’t work:

Notify your landlord.
Do not remove batteries.
Request replacement immediately.

Smoke detectors save lives.

Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your apartment has gas appliances or an attached garage, carbon monoxide detectors are especially important.

Test each detector using the manufacturer’s instructions.

Report missing or malfunctioning detectors immediately.

Locate the Circuit Breaker Panel

Find your electrical panel before you need it.

Take a moment to:

Locate it.
Open the panel.
Read the labels.
Identify the main breaker.

Knowing where it is can save valuable time during an electrical problem.

Find the Water Shutoff

Ask your landlord where the main water shutoff is located.

Also locate:

Sink shutoff valves
Toilet shutoff valve
Washing machine shutoffs (if applicable)

Knowing how to stop a leak quickly can prevent major water damage.

Locate Fire Extinguishers

If your apartment provides one, check:

Location
Accessibility
Pressure indicator

If one isn’t provided, consider purchasing a small extinguisher suitable for kitchen fires and learn how to use it before an emergency occurs.

Check Lighting

Walk around your apartment after dark.

Make sure:

Entryways are well lit.
Hallways have working lights.
Outdoor lighting functions properly.
Stairways are illuminated.

Poor lighting can increase the risk of accidents.

Helpful Resources: Browse Lighting & Visibility for products, equipment, services, or supplies related to this section.

Test GFCI Outlets

Bathrooms and kitchens often have GFCI outlets with “Test” and “Reset” buttons.

Press the test button.

If the outlet doesn’t respond correctly, report it.

These outlets help reduce the risk of electrical shock.

Create an Emergency Contact List

Keep important numbers in one location.

Include:

Landlord
Property management
Emergency maintenance
Utility companies
Local emergency contacts
Trusted family member or friend

Store a digital copy on your phone and a printed copy in your apartment.

Build a Basic Emergency Kit

Every apartment should have a few emergency supplies.

Consider keeping:

Flashlight
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Bottled water
Non-perishable snacks
Phone charger or power bank
Battery-powered radio (optional)
Basic tool kit

You don’t need an elaborate emergency kit, just enough to handle common situations.

Reduce Everyday Hazards

Simple habits help prevent accidents.

Remember to:

Keep walkways clear.
Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
Keep cords organized.
Store cleaning products safely.
Never block exits.
Keep candles away from curtains and paper.
Unplug appliances when appropriate.

Small habits can prevent major problems.

Helpful Resources: Browse Electrical & Appliance Safety for products, equipment, services, or supplies related to this section.

Apartment Safety Checklist

Common Mistakes

Avoid these common mistakes:

Assuming smoke detectors work without testing them.
Not knowing where the circuit breaker is located.
Ignoring loose locks or broken windows.
Waiting until an emergency to locate shutoff valves.
Overloading extension cords.
Forgetting to keep emergency contact information accessible.

Taking an hour to complete a home safety check can help you feel more confident and prepared in your new apartment.