Trust issues in new home

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The issues I'm referring to stem from my fear of break-ins. When I was 7 and obviously living with my parents, we had a break-in when we were away for the weekend, was a pretty traumatizing experience especially when I came home to see my room messed up, all of my stuff thrown around, it unbalanced me for quite a while, never felt truly safe in that house again. Now I got my own place, I have a small condo in a 6-story building, and I want to amp security so that I don't let history repeat itself, especially since I live alone now and I feel much more vulnerable as a result. Any suggestions to help me out and improve security against break-ins is more than welcome. TIA and sorry if the read is long.

Burglar Alarm Technology has improved substantially over the last few decades. So if you live in a 6 story condominium, I would assume you live near a city and cell phone access is readily available.

So you might install a camera system that can monitor your home interior when you are away and feed it to your cell phone. That way you can keep your eye on your place when you are gone. These systems can alert you by message if they detect motion.

Then you might also install an alarm system if someone broke into your dwelling.

If you are mechanically/electrically inclined, you can install these yourself. Otherwise you might speak to professionals that can guide you about installing alarms.

What jimmy recommended is actually quite OK, modern surveillance systems can indeed notify you over the phone when motion is detected in your apartment, so in the event that a break-in happens and you are away from home, you can alert the authorities on time to prevent an incident like the one in your childhood from happening. You should also make a contract with a home security company and mark as many services as you can afford and that suit condo living and needs.

If you want to be extra cautious, another modern security tech I'd recommend is replacing your normal lock with a smart lock. These make it considerably less likely for intruders to enter as they are opened via Bluetooth over your phone or by inserting a code. With some models, you can even receive alerts over your phone when the wrong code is introduced. Others feature deadlock bolts that you activate when you're inside so that no one can enter anymore, even those who would normally have access, so if you fear that anyone might come in when you sleep, rest easy as this won't ever happen.

When you're away for a few days, there are other more creative methods to steer clear from break-ins, like making it seem that you're at home to discourage intruders from coming in. For example, you can install programmable lights that turn on between specific time intervals so that it seems some's home during the evening. I'll leave you with some sources that might help in your search for maximum security, hope we helped and that you'll be and feel alright from now on.
https://www.lemoptix.com/ideal-locations-for-home-security-cameras/
https://www.optimainstitute.com/locks/smart.html
https://popular.reviews/security-system/
http://www.inforrm.com/best-home-security-devices/
https://www.larousse.net/best-gadgets-for-enhancing-your-homes-security.html

"Home alone" movie, booby trap

Hi HindenS. I've lived on my own for many years and have several tips:
Replace the tumbler in the existing lock - you don't know how many keys are out there. Ask your super if he needs a copy, or if it has to be done by his people.
Always look through the peephole first when answering the door. Don't open to strangers.
Install a chain - it's a small barrier for when you open the door to speak to someone. Seconds count in the unlikely event that someone tries to force their way in.
Lock your balcony door - you'd be amazed how many break-ins happen from the balcony - even on higher floors.
Install sliding window locks on all windows - inexpensive, screw-in so no tools needed. Install so max opens 6" or so.
Be mindful of where you are - avoid dark hallways, stairwells, or parking garages. Use areas well travelled with lots of lights and cameras.
Be suspicious of door-to-door salesmen and random knocks. Buildings don't allow solicitors, someone could be casing your unit.
If you do install a system do it yourself, or get it installed from a reputable company.
Be nice to your neighbours - most people are decent and tend to watch out for each other.
Don't brag about all the fancy things you own.
Lastly, if you're worried about your belongings, theft, water damage etc - insurance is really inexpensive.

I've never installed an alarm system in my 50+ years. Use common sense and you'll be fine!