If you need to store belongings inside a self storage unit, you may worry about theft as you are not there all the time to safeguard these items. There are a few steps you can take to help keep your prized possessions from becoming the victims of an unfortunate theft. Here are a few ways you can help keep them safe.

Tour The Facility In Advance

Rather than call a self storage facility to reserve a unit, take the time to go to the building to check out the conditions before you make an agreement to rent one. Ask the owner if the units are patrolled by the police or if there are procedures in place where people need to check in before going to their specific unit. Drive past the facility at night to see how many lights they have illuminating the storage units and if there appear to be blind spots where perpetrators could hide out waiting to break into a unit without being seen. If you notice inadequacies in the amount of protection the facility is providing, move on to another facility altogether.

Look For Additional Security Measures

Some facilities will offer additional security services, such as individual alarms in units, security cameras, motion sensors for lighting, or an access control system to get inside the building. An access control system and surveillance cameras will give the storage unit owner a history of who has been inside, making it less likely for someone to try to steal from another unit while on the premises. When selecting a storage unit rental, select a site that offers 24-hour service. These will most likely have an employee on the premises at all times, making it less likely for a theft to occur.

Watch Your Placement

When placing your items into a self storage unit, you will want to keep valuables well-hidden so anyone who breaks in may overlook them if they are in a rush. Place your more valuable items in the far back portion of your unit, well covered so they are not easily viewed. Place them inside drawers or appliances that are blocked by other items so they cannot be easily accessed. If possible, use a lock to contain items in these enclosures as well. Put valuables in items no one would want to steal such as in a dirty-looking, crushed cardboard box filled with old clothing or placed in between several old magazines that are stacked in a pile.

Use The Right Lock

When renting a self storage unit, do not opt for a location that does not allow you to bring in your own lock. This is a red flag as employees would have access to your belongings, putting them at risk around the clock. Select a lock with a short shackle, as it will be more difficult to use bolt cutters to remove it from your unit. A disc or cylinder lock is more difficult to pry open, making them both great choices to use on your self storage unit.