Living alone can be amazing, but it can also be scary. While you have the freedom, comfort, and convenience of living on your own schedule, it also comes with some risks - especially if you're a woman living independently. But plenty of simple things can be done to make living without roommates as safe as possible - and they won't break the bank. Keep scrolling for tips and tricks to stay as secure while living alone.
Become Friends With Your Neighbors
Building a strong rapport with your neighbors can significantly contribute to your safety as a woman living alone. Establishing friendly relationships fosters a sense of community and encourages neighbors to look out for one another. Exchange contact information with trusted neighbors and inform them of any upcoming trips or extended absences. Having reliable neighbors who can keep an eye on your property and report any suspicious activity adds an extra layer of security.
Similarly, be attentive to their needs and offer assistance when necessary, nurturing a supportive and secure neighborhood environment.
Be Careful What Information You Share Online
In the digital age, it is crucial for women living alone to exercise caution regarding the information they share online. While social media platforms provide an easy way to connect with others, oversharing personal details can pose serious safety risks. Avoid disclosing your address, daily routine, or upcoming travel plans publicly. Burglars and stalkers can exploit this information to track and target you. Regularly review and adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms to control who has access to your personal information.
Remember, maintaining your online privacy is an essential step in ensuring your overall safety while living alone.
Always Bring in the Mail During the Day
Keeping your home safe starts with simple yet effective precautions, such as bringing in the mail during daylight hours. Leaving mail in your mailbox overnight can be an indicator to potential intruders that your home is unoccupied, making it a more appealing target for burglaries. By regularly collecting your mail during the day, you give the impression that the house is occupied and decrease the likelihood of being targeted.
Additionally, if you plan to be away for an extended period, it is advisable to ask a trusted neighbor or friend to collect your mail and make your home appear lived in.
Go Straight to a Police Station if You Are Being Followed
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you believe you are being followed, it is important to take immediate action to protect yourself. To ensure your safety, it is recommended that women living alone avoid going directly home and instead head to a public place, such as a police station. Public spaces provide a layer of safety due to the presence of other individuals and authorities. It is also essential to try to remember or record important details, such as the license plate number or model of the vehicle following you.
This information can be helpful to law enforcement if further action needs to be taken (hopefully not, though).
Keep Important Things on Your Bedside Table When You Sleep
When it comes to personal safety, being prepared while you sleep is crucial. Women living alone should make it a habit to keep important items on their bedside table within arm's reach. This includes items such as a working mobile phone or a personal alarm that can be activated in case of an emergency. Having these items nearby can provide a sense of security, as they enable you to quickly call for help or deter any potential threats.
Additionally, it is advisable to have a flashlight readily available in case of power outages, allowing you to navigate your surroundings safely.
Always Leave a Light On When You Leave the House
Leaving a light on when you're away from home can give the impression that someone is inside, deterring potential intruders. Consider using timers or smart bulbs to automate your lights, creating the illusion of activity even when you're not there. Place lights strategically in different rooms to simulate typical patterns of occupancy throughout the day and night. Additionally, leaving a porch light on can improve visibility and make your home appear more welcoming to neighbors and passersby.
By keeping your home well-lit, you enhance security and reduce the risk of burglary or unwanted attention.
Have a Buddy Around If There Are Servicemen in Your Home
When service providers or repairmen need to enter your home, it's wise to have a trusted friend or family member present, if possible. Having a buddy around not only provides emotional support but also serves as an additional safeguard against potential risks or misunderstandings. If arranging for a companion isn't feasible, inform a trusted individual about the scheduled service appointment and share relevant details, including the service provider's name and contact information.
While you might (and most likely will) be perfectly safe when these trusted people come over, it can't hurt to have an extra person there.
Motion-Sensor Lights Outside Scare People off
Installing motion-sensor lights around your property is a practical way to enhance safety for women living alone. These lights automatically illuminate when motion is detected, deterring potential intruders and alerting you to any activity outside your home. Place motion-sensor lights strategically near entry points, pathways, and dark corners to ensure maximum coverage. Not only do they provide added security, but they also help you navigate safely around your property at night.
Consider investing in energy-efficient LED options for cost-effective and long-lasting illumination.
Buy and Use a Voice-Activated Assistant for Emergencies
Utilizing a voice-activated assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant can enhance convenience and security for women living alone. These devices can perform various tasks, such as controlling smart home devices, setting reminders, and providing weather updates, all through voice commands. Connect your voice-activated assistant to compatible smart home devices, such as smart locks and security cameras, to streamline home automation and monitoring.
Additionally, in case of emergencies, you can use voice commands to call for help or access important information hands-free, ensuring quick responses to urgent situations.
Don't Let People Know You're Living Alone (especially on Social Media)
Keeping your housing status on the down low, especially on social media, is a smart move for solo-living ladies. Skip the oversharing and keep your solo-living status on the hush-hush online. Revealing too much personal info can unintentionally draw unwanted attention your way. So, play it cool and keep those details private to stay safe and secure. While there are some circumstances where it would be fine to share, it is usually better to avoid them.
It is never a good thing to let people know that you are "all on your own," especially on social media, where everybody can access that info.
Put Something Noisy on Your Door Handles
Placing something noisy, such as bells or wind chimes, on your door handles can serve as a simple yet effective way to feel safer at home. It's a simple but smart move that can make all the difference in keeping your place secure. These little noisemakers can alert you if anyone tries to mess with your door handles. Just pick lightweight stuff that won't weigh your handles down and position them so they can make some noise if someone tries anything fishy.
While it may remind you of something that your grandma or the shop on the corner does, it's like having your own personal alarm system right at your front door for very cheap!
Always Carry Self-Defense Items Like Pepper Spray
Carrying self-defense items like pepper spray or a self-defense keychain can provide women living alone with an added sense of security and empowerment. These compact and easily accessible tools can help deter potential attackers and buy precious time to escape dangerous situations. Familiarize yourself with the proper usage and handling of self-defense items and keep them within reach, whether at home or on the go, just to be on the safe side.
Remember, self-defense tools are meant to be a last resort, so prioritize personal safety and use them responsibly and judiciously if faced with a threatening encounter.
Get a Dog to Protect You
Consider getting a dog as a furry companion and an added layer of protection for women living alone. Dogs are not only loyal and loving companions but also serve as excellent deterrents to potential intruders. Their keen senses and protective instincts make them valuable allies in keeping your home safe. Even smaller breeds can alert you to unusual noises or activities, providing an extra sense of security to any situation.
Remember to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and living situation, and invest time in training and socializing your canine companion for the best results in protection and companionship.
Change the Locks When You Move Into a New Place
So, you're moving into a new spot? Awesome! Don't forget one crucial thing: change those locks ASAP. You never know who might have keys to your place, like the old tenants, the landlord, or the maintenance crew. Invest in some good locks and maybe even think about upgrading to those fancy smart ones for extra peace of mind. Get those locks changed pronto after you move in, and you'll sleep a whole lot better knowing your place is secure.
It's likely that the tenants simply returned their keys before you, and that was the end of it, but you never know what sort of people are out there, so it is better to be safe!
Don't Tell People When You Have a Vacation Planned
When it comes to sharing your vacation plans, especially if you're living alone, it's wise to exercise caution. Broadcasting your absence on social media or to acquaintances can inadvertently tip off potential burglars that your home is unoccupied and vulnerable. Instead, consider discreetly informing trusted individuals such as close friends, family members, or neighbors about your travel plans. Request their assistance in monitoring your property and explore additional security measures like timed lights or temporary home monitoring services to create the impression of occupancy and deter potential intruders.
Keeping your travel plans confidential goes a long way in safeguarding your home and belongings while you're away.
Buy a Personal Safety Alarm
Investing in a personal safety alarm is a proactive measure to enhance personal security and summon help during emergencies. Personal safety alarms emit loud, attention-grabbing sounds when activated, drawing attention to your location and potentially deterring attackers or aggressors. Carry a personal safety alarm with you when walking alone, traveling in unfamiliar areas, or engaging in activities where additional protection may be warranted. Make sure you know how to use it and keep it accessible!
Many of these are small and very portable, so you can attach them to your purse or put them in your pocket when you are outside alone.
Keep Your Friends and Family in the Loop About Your Whereabouts
Your friends and family are your ride-or-die crew, right? So, keep them in the loop about what's going on in your life. Share your plans, your schedule, and your digits with them so they know how to reach you. Set up regular check-ins to make sure everyone's cool and safe. When stuff hits the fan, having your squad in the know can be a real lifesaver. Keep those lines of communication open, lean on each other when you need to, and watch each other's backs.
Even if it doesn't do anything to actually protect you, it will give you more peace of mind in your day-to-day life, knowing that someone is watching out for you.
Keep Your Spare Keys Hidden and in a Safe Place
It's super important to be smart about where you hide your spare keys. Ditch the common spots like under the doormat or in a flower pot - burglars know all the usual places to look. Get creative with your hiding spots, or consider using a secure key lock box for added protection. Stay one step ahead of potential intruders and keep your home safe and sound if you want to feel secure.
Bad people will look in all of the usual spots if they are trying to break in, so you want to make sure that the keys are not able to be found, even by clever people.
Keep the Lights On All Night Outside Your House
Keeping your outdoor lights on all night is a smart move for solo women to keep their homes safe. Try motion-activated lights or set timers to light up your paths and entryways. That way, you'll scare off any unwanted guests and keep an eye on things better. LED bulbs are your best bet for saving money and keeping things bright. By lighting up your outdoor spaces, you're sending a clear message: "No shady business here!"
It's all about feeling safe and secure right where you live, and keeping the lights on outside at night is one way to do that.
Meet Your Date in a Public Space, Don't Have Them Pick You Up From Home
When meeting someone for a date, it's advisable to arrange to meet in a public place rather than having them pick you up from home. Meeting in a public setting offers greater safety and control over the situation, allowing you to assess the individual's character and intentions in a neutral environment. Choose well-lit and populated venues such as cafes, restaurants, or entertainment venues for initial meetings. Share your location and plans with a trusted friend or family member, and consider arranging for your own transportation to and from the meeting place.
This is especially important for first dates. While you can hopefully start to trust someone after a few dates, there is no reason to risk it too soon.
Close All Your Curtains at Night
When you draw your curtains or blinds at night, you're not just keeping things cozy—you're also boosting your privacy and security, especially if you're living solo. Block those outside snoops from peeking in and sizing up your stuff. Close 'em up tight in every room, especially the ones facing the street or other houses. For extra privacy and to keep the light just right, blackout curtains or shades are the way to go.
It's all about feeling safe and snug in your own space, with no unwanted eyes prying in after dark.
Don't Stick to a Predictable Routine
For women living alone, avoiding a predictable routine is crucial for safety. By varying your daily schedule and habits, you can reduce the risk of being targeted by potential threats. Simple changes like taking different routes or changing up your daily activities can make it harder for someone to track your movements. Being mindful of sharing too much information on social media about your whereabouts is also important to prevent strangers from knowing your routine.
Remember, unpredictability can be a powerful defense strategy for women living alone to stay safe and secure.
Always Lock Your Car Door and Never Post Your License Plate Online
Ensuring that your car door is locked at all times is a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of personal safety for women living alone. Make it a habit to lock your car doors immediately upon entering or exiting the vehicle, regardless of your location or the duration of your stay. Keep windows closed and valuables out of sight to deter opportunistic theft or vandalism. Prioritize personal safety and remain vigilant, especially in parking lots, garages, or unfamiliar areas where security risks may be higher.
It seems so simple and silly, but you would be surprised how much simply locking a door can do in terms of safety and protection.
Take Self-Defense Classes
Taking self-defense classes is a proactive step toward enhancing personal safety. These classes equip women living alone with valuable skills and techniques to defend themselves in threatening situations. Learning how to assess risks, escape from holds, and use basic self-defense moves can boost confidence and provide a sense of empowerment. Look for local classes or workshops offered by reputable instructors or community organizations. Remember, investing in self-defense training is an investment in your own protection and peace of mind.
There are so many options for self-defense classes, including jiu-jitsu and krav maga, just to name a few.
Keep Your Valuable Items Hidden Away in Clever Places
Protecting your valuable items is essential for safeguarding your belongings and reducing the risk of theft or burglary. Keep valuables such as jewelry, electronics, and important documents securely stored and out of plain sight. Invest in a sturdy safe or lockbox to store sensitive items, and consider installing hidden compartments or diversion safes for added security. Avoid leaving valuables unattended or in vulnerable areas, especially when hosting guests or receiving deliveries.
You don't want people coming in and out of your house to be able to see all the valuable and expensive items that you own. It is better for them to think you don't have anything.
Lock the Door Right Away Behind You
Making it a habit to lock the door immediately after entering or leaving your home is a simple yet effective security practice for women living alone. Always ensure that all entry points, including doors and windows, are securely locked to prevent unauthorized access. Consider installing deadbolts and reinforced strike plates for added protection against forced entry. Develop a routine of double-checking locks before retiring for the night or leaving the house unattended.
By prioritizing basic security measures, you establish a strong barrier against potential threats and promote a safe living environment.
Look Through the Peephole Before You Open the Door
Before opening the door to anyone, always use the peephole or a window to verify the visitor's identity and assess the situation. Avoid opening the door to unexpected or unfamiliar individuals, especially during late hours or when you're alone at home. If someone claims to be from a service or delivery company, ask for identification or contact the company to confirm their legitimacy before granting access. Trust your instincts and prioritize caution when interacting with strangers, prioritizing your safety above all else.
By exercising discretion and verifying visitors before opening the door, you reduce the risk of potential threats and maintain control over your home environment.
Get a Security Camera
A comprehensive security system with cameras is a valuable investment for women living alone. Modern security systems offer advanced features such as motion detection, smartphone integration, and 24/7 monitoring services. Strategically place security cameras in key areas around your home to monitor activity both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, prominently display signs indicating the presence of a security system to deter potential intruders. While it may not actually do that much to help if something happens, it works as a good preventive as people don't want to get caught.
With real-time alerts and remote access to camera feeds, you can keep a watchful eye on your property and enjoy greater peace of mind, knowing that your home is well-protected.
Keep Your Emergency Contacts on Speed Dial
Having a list of emergency contacts close by can be a lifesaver, especially if you're on your own. Round up your trusted people, family, friends, neighbors, doctors, and emergency services. Stash their digits where you can grab them quickly. You don't want to be fumbling when this get stressful. Stick them numbers in your phone (in your contacts), or physically in your wallet, or even on the fridge where it's easy to spot. Include all the details including names, numbers, addresses, and any special instructions or medical info.
By keeping those contacts handy, you're giving yourself the backup you need to handle any curveballs that come your way and stay safe and sound.
Always Have an Emergency Plan
Preparing and practicing an emergency plan is essential for women living alone to stay safe and prepared for unexpected situations. Identify potential risks and develop a detailed plan outlining specific actions to take in various emergencies, such as fires, medical crises, or intrusions. Communicate your emergency plan with trusted contacts, including family members, neighbors, and friends, and ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. Regularly review and update your emergency plan as needed; this is an important part!
Being proactive and prepared can make all the difference in effectively managing emergencies and ensuring personal safety.
Keep Your Trees Neatly Trimmed for Best Visibility
Maintaining clear visibility around your home is essential for safety, especially for women living alone. Overgrown trees and shrubs can provide hiding spots for potential intruders and obstruct your view of the surroundings. Regularly trim branches and bushes near windows, doors, and pathways to eliminate hiding places and enhance visibility. Well-lit and visible surroundings act as a deterrent to potential threats and make it easier to detect any suspicious activity around your property.
Stay proactive in keeping your outdoor areas tidy and well-maintained for optimal safety. This can also correlate to the bushes as well as any shrubbery.
Keep Your Keys on Your Bedside Table
Having your keys right there on your bedside table is like having a safety net in case things go south, whether it's a break-in or a medical emergency. Keep them close but secure, so they're easy to grab but won't go wandering off by accident. And hey, why not attach a personal alarm or flashlight to your keychain for some extra backup? That way you have an escape plan and lighting.
By keeping your keys within arm's reach while you catch some Z's, you're giving yourself that extra layer of protection and peace of mind for whatever comes your way.
Have a Landline, Not Just a Cellphone
While cellphones are convenient, having a landline can be a crucial safety measure for women living alone. During emergencies, cellular networks may experience disruptions or signal issues, hindering your ability to call for help. A landline provides a reliable means of communication, especially in situations where every second counts. Additionally, landlines can be traced more accurately by emergency services, helping them locate you quickly in case of need. Consider installing a landline as part of your safety precautions at home.
Hopefully you will never need to use it, but it can be a comfort to know that you have it just in case.
Have a First Aid Kit Handy
For women living alone, safety should always come first. One essential item every household should have is a first aid kit. Accidents can happen any time, and having basic medical supplies readily available can make a big difference in emergencies. Be sure to keep your kit stocked with bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, scissors, and pain relievers. Regularly check and replenish your supplies to ensure you're prepared for any situation that may arise.
This is a good tip for anyone who is living alone, not just for women. So whoever is reading this list, they should keep it in mind.
Be Careful When Answering the Door
One of the most important safety tips for women living alone is to exercise caution when it comes to answering the door. It is essential to never open the door to a stranger and to always verify the identity of the person on the other side before letting them in. Install a peephole or a doorbell camera to enhance security and allow you to see who is at your front door. If you have any doubts or concerns about the person, it is best to err on the side of caution and not open the door.
In situations where you feel unsafe, do not hesitate to call the authorities for assistance. Your safety is of utmost importance.
Always Stay Aware
Maintaining situational awareness is key to staying safe for women living alone. Pay attention to your surroundings, both indoors and outdoors, and trust your instincts if something feels off or unfamiliar. Be mindful of suspicious individuals or unusual activities in your neighborhood and report any concerns to local authorities or community watch groups. Limit distractions such as headphones or excessive use of mobile devices, especially when walking alone or in secluded areas.
By staying vigilant and tuned in to your environment, you can identify potential risks early and take proactive steps to mitigate them, ensuring your personal safety and well-being.
Pack a "Get Up and Go" Bag to Always Be Ready
Putting together a "get up and go" bag is like having your own superhero kit for when things get dicey, especially if you're living solo. Toss in the essentials like spare clothes, toiletries, meds, important docs, some cash, and emergency contacts into a handy backpack. Make it your own by considering where you live and what kind of emergencies you might face. Keep that bag where you can grab it quick, near exits or safe spots in your place.
By having your emergency kit good to go, you're ready to bolt at a moment's notice and handle whatever curveballs life throws your way.
Keep Your Information Private - Especially Your Address
Keeping your personal info safe, especially your address, is super important, especially if you're living solo. Be smart about who you give it to and make sure it is only the people you really trust. Skip putting it out there on social media or any public spots where anyone can see if you want to be extra safe and secure. This is particularly relevant for you address, don't share this with people unless you really have to!
Your safety comes first, so keep that address under wraps and only share it when you really need to, for your own peace of mind.
Avoid Walking Alone at Night
It's a good idea for women living alone to cut back on going out solo, especially at night, to lower the chances of running into risky situations. Try to buddy up or arrange for a ride when you're in unfamiliar or dimly lit areas after the sun sets to stay safe and sound. Especially if you are going out in some of the less safe neighborhoods, you need to be extra careful.
Although it is incredibly annoying that women have to be concerned about something as simple as going for a walk alone at night, it is worth it to be extra cautious.
Pick a Safe Neighborhood to Live
Choosing a safe neighborhood to live in is crucial for women living alone. Research local crime rates, neighborhood amenities, and community resources to assess the overall safety and suitability of potential areas. Look for neighborhoods with active community watch programs, well-lit streets, and access to essential services such as police and emergency response. Consider visiting the neighborhood during different times of the day to get a feel for the atmosphere and level of security.
While it may be a bit more expensive to live in a safer neighborhood, if there is any way you can afford it, you should definitely consider it when you are looking for a place.