How to Stay Safe When You Live Alone

Last updated: March 6, 2023

KEY TAKEAWAYS

While setting out on your own is exciting and living by yourself allows you your independence, there are certain risks associated with it. You might appear as a vulnerable target for potential burglars and criminals. However, that doesn’t mean you are destined to be a victim; there are plenty of steps you can take to ensure your safety, even if you live alone. 

We consulted the experts and assembled a list of essential security tips you can implement and secure yourself and your house.

Proper Lighting

“A well-lit home will stave off intruders from trying to break into your home. For a more advanced smart home technology approach, you can install Bulbrite Solana Smart LED Bulbs to replace your regular lights and easily control them through the Bulbrite Solana app on your smartphone. You can remotely turn the lights on and off at different times of the day so that your home always looks occupied.” (Brittany Noe)

Smart Locks 

“Installing a smart lock will give you peace of mind while you’re away (or home). With the Schlage Encode, you can check in on the status of your lock from your smartphone to make sure that your doors are securely locked at all times. Smart locks also offer unique one-time or permanent access codes, which are great if you have a maintenance guy stopping by to make home repairs during the warm months or have a cleaning crew coming by to prepare for a new season.” (Brittany Noe)

Cameras

“Having the ability to verify who is exactly at your door at any given time will provide you with further peace of mind. The Schlage Encode works with Ring Video Doorbell so you can see who is at your door and then unlock the door accordingly if they are allowed to enter.”

Brittany Noe, Account Executive Formula NY

Daily Check-In Service

“I am a single parent with a toddler, and one of my fears is that I will hurt myself or become otherwise incapacitated while home alone with her. To deal with this, I signed up for a daily check-in service. I have to check in with them at a preset interval, and if I don’t, they send emergency services to my home address. It’s an added layer of security just in case. The service I use is Snug Safety, but there are several options available. Some are paid and some are free.” Miranda Hernandez, Adrian’s Elephant: Community & Stories • Support After Loss

Connect With Your Neighbors

“Creating a connection with our neighbors is the first step in creating a safe environment when we are living alone. Neighbors could help identify people and vehicles that belong to the neighborhood and keep an eye out for suspicious activity in your street.” (Harriet Chan)

And Again- Security Cameras!

“Install a security camera to instantly have another set of eyes look out for you and check what’s happening when you are away from home. Cameras are like having security staff on duty always without the hassle of living with someone else.” (Harriet Chan)

Don’t Let Anyone Know Your Living Situation

“Never make it evident that you live alone to prevent someone from taking advantage of your living arrangements. Refrain from posting about your living situation on social media as a burglar might be familiar with the neighborhood and might see you as an easy target.” (Harriet Chan)

Keep an Escape Plan

“Plan an escape route for use in the case of an emergency. Take a survey of your home and surroundings and structure a strategic, safe, and quick emergency exit.” (Harriet Chan)

Lock Up!

“Always lock your doors and windows before you leave the house or when going to bed. Utilizing your locks is effective in preventing intruders and harmful creatures from sneaking in.”

Harriet Chan, Co-Founder of CocoFinder

Video Doorbell

“One inexpensive way to help you stay safe when you live alone is with a video doorbell. This device allows you to see and speak with visitors at your door without opening it. The video doorbell also sends alerts of unexpected motion so you aren’t surprised by someone at your door. There are many video doorbell options on the market that work with traditional doorbells or even peephole cameras for apartments. Improve your safety by investing in a video doorbell and stop opening your door for strangers.”

Jason Young, CEO Smart Home Focus

Cost-Effective Protection

“No matter where you are, home security is a must-have. What if you’re on a budget? Never fear! Common Sense Solutions is here to delegate your concerns into practical resolutions that anyone can utilize for a safe, happy home. 

  • Lock your doors. I know, basic, right? Most burglaries aren’t premeditated and will simply look for the easiest points of entry.
  • Make sure your bathroom window is locked. You’d be surprised, most people have theirs unlocked. Don’t believe me? Next time you’re at a friend’s, try their bathroom window.
  • Emergency supplies. During times of crisis, people are most vulnerable. Need water? Instead of going out to fetch it, keep it, lights, and a baseball bat in your house.
  • Put large men’s shoes outside by the door, as if to dry. If you’re single, female, or just small in stature, using this simple trick can save your life.
  • Don’t brag about money or your things to your neighbors.
  • Don’t overtly flaunt your religious or political motifs, whatever they may be. Many people are angry and are looking for any excuse to fight. So maybe hide the political affiliation flags for now.
  • Always remember escalation of force! Very important, remain calm. If you yell, you up the already high tension.
  • Don’t blast your music.
  • Try to be friendly with everyone, even the creeps.
  • Never pick a fight in the corner. You always want to have a way to get out.
  • Make sure your smoke alarm works.
  • Walk the neighborhood regularly so you can learn the layout. Learn who lives where and spot strange activities before it’s too late.
  • Always plan for the worst, hope for the best.

Julia Campbell Professional Model, Photographer, Writer and Artist.

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