There are many benefits to living all by yourself — including the ability to decorate however you choose, abide by your own schedule, and there’s zero pressure to pick up if you’re not in the mood. However, living alone can cause some anxiety. At times, you may feel unsafe in your own home. Luckily, — whether you’re living in an apartment, a house, a condo, or a townhouse — you can feel more confident and secure with these 12 safety tips.
Always Lock Your Doors and Windows
When you live alone, it’s important to lock all your doors and windows, even when you’re home. Keeping your doors and windows locked can help keep potential intruders out (or a neighbor from accidentally entering your apartment thinking it’s their own!) — and provide you with a greater sense of peace of mind.
Double-check that each window in your place is securely closed and locked. Then, recheck all your space’s outside entrances—including front, back, and even balcony doors. If you have a deadbolt, be sure it’s engaged.
Worried you’ll find yourself locked out? Keep a spare key in a secure location, whether in a locked box or with a trusted friend or family member in town.
Install Home Security Features
If you’re living alone, you may want to install home security features. These can include motion sensor lights, security cameras, video doorbells, or even alarm systems. These features can help you feel more secure in your home and can also act as a deterrent for potential intruders.
If you’re living in an apartment, you may be unable to install alarm systems or motion sensor lights. However, you can still install security cameras and video doorbells. Adding in additional security measures can help you keep an eye on who’s coming and going from your apartment, identify any suspicious activity, and allow you to double-check who is at the door before you answer.
Be Careful What You Post on Social Media
It’s also a good idea to be aware of your online presence — whether you’re looking for a new roommate or posting day-to-day updates. Make sure to keep your accounts secure and private, and avoid giving out too much personal information — including your address or any identifying photos of your place. Keep your address reserved for only those who you trust to visit — like friends and family members. Keeping a low profile online can help you feel secure and confident while living alone.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid posting your plans and whereabouts on social media in real-time. Real-time posting can make you a target for potential burglars should they know you’re out of town. Avoid posting photos of your valuables on social media, t00.
Use Timers to Make it Appear Someone is Home
Don’t want it to appear that you’re living alone? Get creative by using timers for lights, your television, the radio, and other appliances. This can make it appear to potential intruders that someone is home, even when you’re not.
It’s also wise to keep your curtains or blinds closed when you’re away. This can help you maintain your privacy and can also help make it appear as though someone is home.
Befriend Your Neighbors
It’s a good idea to get to know your neighbors if you live alone. This can help you build a sense of community and can also help with safety. If you’re on good terms with trusted neighbors, they can help keep an eye on your home and can alert you to any suspicious activity.
It’s also a good idea to let a trusted neighbor know when you’re going away for an extended period of time. This way, they can keep an eye on your place and can alert you to any suspicious activity.
Don’t Open Your Door for Strangers
When you’re living alone, it’s important to remember to never open your door for strangers. If someone is knocking at your door, it’s a good idea to ask who it is before opening it. If you aren’t expecting someone, and it’s not someone you know and trust, don’t answer. You can also use a peephole or video doorbell to identify the person before opening the door and request that all orders — from food delivery to grocery deliveries — remain contactless.
Keep An Emergency Contact List Handy
When you’re living alone, it’s important to always have an emergency contact list handy. This list should include friends, family, and local emergency services, such as the police and fire department. This list can help you in the event of an emergency.
It’s also a good idea to keep your emergency contact list in an easily accessible place, such as your refrigerator, nightstand, or desk.
Have an Emergency Plan in Place
If you’re living alone, it’s important to have an emergency plan in place. This plan should include what to do in the event of an emergency and should include contact information for friends, family, and local emergency services.
It’s also a good idea to practice your emergency plan. This can help you feel more prepared and can help you stay safe in the event of an emergency.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight
It’s important to keep your valuables out of sight. This includes jewelry, cash, and other items of value. It’s also a good idea to keep any important documents, such as birth certificates and passports, in a secure location, such as a locked box or safe.
Call for Help if You Feel Unsafe
If you ever find yourself feeling unsafe, whether in your apartment, the parking lot, or your community’s parking garage, it’s important to call for help. This could include calling the police, apartment security, or a friend or family member. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Consider Getting Self-Defense Training
It’s also a good idea to have a defense class or self-defense training. This can help you feel more confident and secure while living alone and can also help you protect yourself in the event of an emergency.
Find a New Apartment With ApartmentSearch
Living alone can sometimes be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. You can feel more confident and secure in your home with the right safety tips and precautions. However, if you’re feeling unsafe, it may be time to find a new apartment in a new part of town. Don’t waste time sifting through dozens of marketplace listings. Start by browsing on ApartmentSearch. With advanced filtering options, detailed images, and a clear picture of apartment community features, you’re sure to find an apartment that fits your needs — and your budget.
The post Feel Confident and Secure: 12 Safety Tips for Living Alone appeared first on Apartment Life.
