Independence can be a beautiful thing! Living alone affords many freedoms—you get to be in charge of things like décor and dinner—but you’re also the only one responsible for home security and personal safety.
Unfortunately, living alone can leave you vulnerable to dangerous situations such as robbery or burglary. When you don’t have a housemate to help you lock up or call for help in the event of a break-in, you need other types of backup. Ensure you don’t get caught by surprise with these safety tips when you’re home alone to help make your home as safe as possible.
Get A Security Camera
Adding a security camera to your home is a great way to have another set of eyes observing it immediately. It helps you check on what’s going on when you’re away from home, and it can deter burglars from targeting your home.
Security cameras have helped to catch many criminals. In addition, security cameras are available for nearly every budget and need. You can benefit from having your security staff on duty 24/7 if your cameras are part of a monitored security system.
Get To Know Your Neighbors
Some people make an effort to be friendly with their neighbors more often than others, but we recommend always making the extra effort to introduce yourself to your neighbors. The neighbors maybe your greatest resource, especially in times of crisis, since a friend is more likely to help than a stranger. If they know something about you, they may be able to notice if something strange is going on.
Lock Your Doors
Even though you may think you don’t have to lock your doors during the day, break-ins are most common. Whether you’re at home, at the office, or just walking around, lock the door behind you. This simple safety measure will keep intruders out and keep you protected no matter where you live. Once you’ve entered the home, lock windows and doors so you won’t forget to do so before bed.
Close Your Curtains
It’s a good idea to close your curtains. Why should you do this? You won’t have to worry about people peeking into your house or seeing you in your pajamas. Also, it will keep thieves from preying upon your possessions.
Motion Activated Lights
You can enhance your home’s exterior with motion-activated lights. By installing these safety lights on your property, you can see any intruders trying to get close to your property before it’s too late. There will never be a need for you to stumble to the door in the dark again.
Social Media Habits
Take a look at the way you use social media. You should not post on social media that you will be out of the house for a long time or that you will be home alone. It would be best to avoid pictures that may reveal sensitive information, such as your home address.
Smart Keys And Deadbolts
Smart keys and deadbolts are the easiest ways to ensure your doors are locked. The smart key is a proprietary device that uses a smart cylinder, making it difficult to pick and impossible to copy. Digital deadbolts come with digital, numerical codes that can be punched in or accessed remotely via your phone, so you don’t have to find your keys or open your doors.
Consider a Medical Alert
Living alone may be difficult for those with medical conditions or mobility issues, but those with mobility issues may find living alone even more difficult. An alert pendant can help with your peace of mind. Your medical alert is always by your side to help you in the event of falls, seizures, allergic reactions, or other potentially life-threatening situations.
Emergency Exit Plan
Prepare an escape plan for worst-case scenarios, such as a fire or a break-in. If you find yourself in a stressful situation, you should know where you can go for refuge. Fire and CO alarms, which are monitored, can alert you at the first sign of danger, enabling you to flee before the fire reaches you. It is much easier to handle scary situations alone if you make a plan for these types of circumstances.
Use A Video Doorbell
You can communicate with strangers at your door without opening the door. Your video doorbell lets you communicate with anyone via your smartphone while viewing live video. You can also set motion detectors for added protection at home.
Don’t Publicize Large Purchases
If possible, avoid publicly displaying items that are likely to be stolen. Items such as jewelry, electronics, and guns are the most common items stolen. You should break down large boxes (such as those holding TVs) and keep your curtains and blinds closed as much as possible. You don’t want anyone seeing what you have to steal, noticing that you’re at home alone, or even noticing what you have to steal.
Secure The Garage
We often neglect the garage as an entry point in home security. Criminals who have been in the business for some time know this. They also know how to hack into your garage door opener. Do not neglect this important part of your home. Consider automating your garage door so you can open and close it from across town and confirm it is closed. For extra security, disable your garage door opener if you’re going to be away for business or on vacation.
Are you interested in learning about different security solutions you can employ for your safety? Check out the rest of Be-Safe’s resources today!
Daisy is the engine behind Be-Safe.org — from content production to product reviews and more. What drives her is the passion to make home security information easily available.
