Living alone offers plenty of perks, but it also has its challenges—especially when it comes to staying safe. As a woman living alone, you might not have someone to check in on you regularly, help you with home maintenance, or be there to protect you in an emergency.
That’s why it’s important to take extra care when it comes to your safety. While no one wants to think about the possibility of becoming a victim of such a heinous crime, it’s important to be prepared and know what to do if you find yourself in that situation. Here are some home safety tips for women who live alone:
Get to know your neighbors
It’s always good to have someone you can rely on nearby in case of an emergency. If you don’t know your neighbors well, take some time to get to know them. Perhaps you can start a neighborhood watch program.
Neighbors should work together to protect one another’s homes and belongings and to be aware of any strangers in the area. It’s also helpful to have someone nearby who can check on you if you’re not feeling well or if they notice something suspicious happening at your home.
Make sure your doors and windows are secure
This is especially important if you live in an apartment or condo. Deadbolts are a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home. In addition, make sure that your windows are locked when you’re not home and that any valuables are out of sight.
This includes your garage, too. If you have an attached garage, make sure that the door between your home and the garage is locked at all times. Installing garage doors that you can open and close on command is also preferable. A garage door operated with a wireless remote is an excellent way to add an extra layer of security to your home. In addition, check the garage door opener regularly to ensure everything is functioning properly. There could be issues with the garage door motor if the opener isn’t working right. In this case, you might need garage door motor repair services.
Consider getting a dog
Dogs make great loyal companions and can also act as a deterrent to would-be burglars. Dogs create noise whenever there is a stranger in or around your house, which can alert you—and your neighbors—to potential danger.
Some popular guard dogs include German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers. These dogs are known for their intelligence, strength, and protective instincts. They can be a great addition to any home and help keep you safe when living alone.
Invest in a home security system
A home security system can give you peace of mind knowing that your home is being monitored even when you’re not there. There are many types of systems on the market. You can get a smart doorbell camera, which would allow you to check who is at the door even when you’re not home. You can also get a system that monitors your windows and doors and sends you alerts if there is any activity.
More people are now using smart locks because they offer an extra layer of security. With a smart lock, you can remotely lock and unlock your door using your smartphone. You can also set up alerts so that you’re notified whenever someone enters or leaves your home.
Another good investment would motion-activated lights. These can be placed both inside and outside of your home and will turn on automatically if there is any movement in the area. This can help deter burglars and give you a chance to see what or who is lurking around your property.
Be mindful of landscaping
Your landscaping can actually be working against you when it comes to home security. Bushes and trees close to your windows or doors provide easy hiding spots for burglars. If you have any foliage near your home, make sure it is well-lit and trimmed so that there are no potential hiding spots.
In addition, don’t forget to trim back any branches that are hanging over your roof or near windows. These can be used as a way for burglars to gain access to your home.
Be aware of your surroundings
Pay attention to who is around you when you’re out and about and walking to your car or home. If you feel like you’re being followed, don’t rush home. Go into a public place, knock on a neighbor’s door, or try to flag down a police officer. Trust your gut instinct—if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
Never open the door to strangers
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating. Don’t open the door to anyone you don’t know, no matter how friendly they seem. If someone claims to be from the utility company or delivery service, ask for identification before you open the door.
If you’re not expecting anyone and someone shows up at your door, don’t open it.
No one should live in fear for their safety, but unfortunately, violence against women is all too common. Taking some simple precautions and being aware of your surroundings can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of domestic violence or other crimes.