As a foreigner, you may be a target for burglars who think that you are extremely rich, but most theft from property is opportunistic. While no property can be made completely safe, sensible security measures will minimise the risk.
Living in a high-rise condominium should lessen the possibility of your being the victim of a break-in but this is not always the case. Although condominiums usually have a 24-hour security guard presence, they are not always that efficient. Condominiums that have combination keypad/swipe card entrance systems provide additional protection. It is important to have good locks on your entrance door, and if you can fit a lock additional to the one already provided, so much the better. Entrance doors should have a spy hole and the use of intercom systems is increasing. Make sure that windows and balconies are secure.
Protecting a house is more difficult but a few simple measures will deter most opportunist thieves. You may wish to consider getting a guard dog, if you can cope with looking after it. Properly trained, they are an excellent deterrent. Walls and fences surrounding the property should be well built. Although broken glass and razor wire are unsightly, they should put off the less agile burglar. All windows and doors should have metal security grills fitted. There is debate about whether CCTV cameras and burglar alarms do more harm than good by advertising the resident's potential wealth. Both real and fake cameras and alarm systems are available at Panthip Plaza in Bangkok. The ultimate deterrent is to employ a night watchman.
If you store valuables or important documents in your home, it is wise to buy a fire safe. They are fairly inexpensive; a one-cubic metre floor standing safe can be purchased from most furniture stores for about B9,000.....
