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Living alone can be an excellent step for many individuals and shows a great deal of independence and responsibility. However, as much as we may not like to believe it, it does make us more of a target for criminal activity. This could include things such as home intrusions and burglaries to more sinister attacks.
According to safe wise, the FBI estimates that a burglar strikes every 26 seconds in the US and that renters are often targeted over homeowners. When taking a look at the different statistics, it’s certainly reasonable to be concerned.
In this article, we are going to discuss some of the different ways that you can protect yourself so that you can stay safe while living alone.
Let’s get started.
Home security
One of the best ways to protect yourself in your home is by installing a home security system. Having alarms and video surveillance will not only deter unwanted guests but also notify you if someone does happen to break into your home. This can give you valuable time to assess your next move. Some systems also come with a variety of smart devices to make the entire process even more secure and convenient. Check out these other home automation ideas if you are thinking of getting started.
Alongside a technical system, there are also other ways to keep your home secure. Peepholes can help you keep an eye on who is at the door, and rods can be purchased to be placed in any sliding tracks. If you are renting a home and have concerns, it can also be wise to speak to your landlords about alternate solutions.
Personal defense equipment
As important as it is to protect your home, it’s also wise to get some personal defense equipment. This can be handy if you are walking alone back to your apartment or just out and about by yourself. Examples of this could include stun guns, whistles, and other tactical tools to assist you in an emergency. It can also be wise to check out the best pepper spray options, which are a popular choice.
Alongside this, it can also be a good idea to utilize certain applications on your phone for further protection. For example, some apps can allow your friends and family to track your location, while others provide you with a safety button that will alert police when pressed for a certain number of seconds.
Research
Every neighborhood is different, so before you even contemplate living alone, you want to do some research. This includes looking at certain crime statistics and gathering advice from others that live in the area. It’s also wise to drive through different parts of town and get an insider’s perspective on each site. If something doesn’t seem right, then you should consider looking elsewhere.
Social media
It’s easy to get caught up posting all of your information on social media, but if you live alone, it’s vital that you protect your identity as much as possible. By sharing news that you don’t have anyone else living on the premises, you are potentially making yourself a bigger target. This doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy social media but instead should make sure that you are extra careful.
Never post your address online; make sure you follow certain cybersecurity precautions and try to make all of your personal information private. It’s a simple step that makes a very big difference to your overall safety.
Know thy neighbors
Having friends close by can be a great choice when living alone, so think about familiarizing yourself with your neighbors. While you should still be cautious (some neighbors can also be criminals), it’s still a good idea to have them keep a lookout for you.
For example, they might keep an extra eye on your property and let you know if they see anything suspicious. Yes, nosy people can be a nuisance, but it’s still an extra layer of protection. Check out how to make friends with your neighbours for more information!
Exit strategy
Having an exit strategy is an excellent idea if you really want to take one more step in protecting yourself. This could include what happens if someone does make it into your home, as well as other dangers such as a fire. If you can’t leave through the front door, think about how else you can get out of the house. Is there a fire escape or window you can get too? Or would your best bet be to barricade yourself into one of the rooms? By asking yourself these questions, you can build a plan to follow so that you can keep yourself calm and level-headed.
Landscaping
If you have a home with a garden, it’s crucial that you try to maintain it as much as possible. Cutting away excess leaves and greenery ensures there are fewer hiding spots, and those nearby can have a better view of your home. If you don’t have time to do it yourself, try hiring assistance or a friend to help. It really can make a big difference.
Faking it
If you can’t immediately purchase a home security system, a good idea is to pretend. By putting up fake signage such as “You are on camera”, or “Beware of the dog,” you can deter away unwanted guests. Another idea is to also make it seem like another person is living at the property. You might consider putting another name on your mailbox, leaving some men’s shoes at the door, or even letting the radio play when you aren’t home. You never know when it might protect you and your belongings.
Final Thoughts
By taking into consideration all of the above, you can live alone without being so worried about your safety. While it certainly can be overwhelming at times, the key is to be as prepared as possible and always know what precautions to take.
What do you think? Have you incorporated any of these tips into your home?
