SHTF Condo Security: Beware the Walls When Trouble Comes Knocking

FIVE ABOVE SIX BELOW URBAN PREPAREDNESS BLOG CIVIL UNREST CONDO SECURITY APARTMENT PREPPING

While modern construction comes with a host of pros, structural integrity doesn't usually top the list. One glaring issue with new builds is that many of these units are built on an open-floor concept, reducing the number of concrete walls, while maintaining code through the use of a gypsum firewall. While this no doubt translates to a few pesos off the purchase price, there is a hidden cost that people are beginning to encounter on a more frequent basis. In the face of common criminals or SHTF, knowing where your security is thinnest could make or break your apartment prepping plan.

THE BREAKDOWN

With a ragged economy and unemployment rates at varying highs, we have seen a generalized increase in pretty theft and burglary around the world. This has been especially true for people under 25 who are encountering new barriers to employment and the cost of living. Not to mention an influx of gangs. While this doesn't negate their moral responsibility, it does translate to a hearty excuse as to how to make ends meet or to fill the hours of each day. Whether on the hunt for hard goods or a good time, condos have become a one-stop shop for opportunists with a knack for quick rewards. And with them, a direct approach that doesn't rely on shock or skill.

GETTING LOST IN THE SOUNDS AROUND

The internet has done a great job of illustrating the pitfalls of lockpicks and donkey kicks. One requires a fair amount of skill, while the other is quick to set off the hounds. But in a building that is rife with the sounds of the city and construction, it's hard to believe that a saw would stick out. Take a moment and imagine that you heard a saw cutting through some drywall right now, would it be cause for concern? Would you go outside to investigate? Let's be honest now. But how about a loud bang? Chances are you'd be out like a shot. Unfortunately, this is something that the have-nots have picked up on as well. Not to mention a lesson in condo construction.

FIGHT THEM WHERE THEY AREN'T

Those pathetic firewalls we were taking about before? Unfortunately, those apply to a number of exterior doorways as well. Without the use of extended wooden frames or exterior construction (e.g. brick or concrete), most modern condo entrances are made up of a little bit of frame and a whole lot of drywall. To capitalize on this, thieves are cutting in beside the deadbolt, reaching in, and flipping switches. This means there's no heavy door to contend with, nor a complex lock set. Whether a hand saw or reciprocating, this can be done in no time at all, and with even less skill.

A common breach point in exterior condo walls. While these have been cut out during B&Es, take a moment to imagine how quickly a crew could smash their way through a floor of units during an extended period of civil unrest or SHTF.

KNOWING IS HALF THE BATTLE

While unlikely to be an issue in the best of times, we don't tend to prepare for happy days - especially now. Whether hard times or civil unrest, having the awareness of the problem leaves less room for surprises, and a little more for solutions. While a couple hundred bucks would go a long way with an alarm, I'd recommend a weekend of plaster and paint instead. Secured to your frame, sheet metal or a stack of 2x4s could mean the difference between a hacked up wall or an empty nest. Afterall, criminals want easy. Why not let them chew on some other bone while you keep adding layers to this onion?

WHAT ARE YOUR URBAN PREPPING SECURITY TRICKS? ARE THEY DIFFERENT FOR DAY-TO-DAY VS. SHTF?

Bugging In, SecurityJHAugust 28, 2024Urban Prepping Blog, Urban Prepping, Urban survival, Urban Survival, Urban Preparedness, Urban Preparedness Blog, City Prepping, Civil Unrest, Apartment Prepping, SHTF Blog, SHTFComment

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