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In this day and age it is sometimes difficult for a woman to feel safe. I think all of us, at some point or another, have feared the idea of being mugged or raped. For some, this has already happened. It can be difficult to feel safe in our homes when we live alone. There is no way that we can be completely safe, but there are steps that we can take to help ourselves be aware of the dangers around us and avoid them at all costs.
Know your home: It’s important to know your home as best as you can. Be sure to discover all the nooks and crannies of your home. Be aware of them and how they look. If there are any changes to them, i.e. a door wide open when you’re sure you left it shut, get someone to check it out with you.
Home Security Check: Did you know that most Police volunteer organizations will perform a home security check for your personal safety? They will come to your home and go through it with you, giving you detailed information on how you can make your home even safer. This is a very important tool for single women especially.
Locking doors and windows: Be sure to have sturdy, working locks on all your doors and windows and use them at all times. Remember to check that they remain locked. Never sleep with your windows open. If you ever lose a key to your door, make sure you change the locks immediately.
Answering machines: Answering machines can tell a lot about a person, especially depending on what is said on the message you use to take your calls. Make sure that you never say anything that suggests that you ‘aren't home at the moment' and never admit that you live alone. It’s also a good idea to use a pre-recorded message with a male voice or to get a male friend to record your message.
Unlocking your door: Always have your key ready in your hand and avoid fumbling for your key, as this can be a distraction to you.
When answering the door: Always ask who it is before opening your door. If you have a peephole, check to see who is on the other side of your door. If someone is delivering a package to you, and you don’t recall ordering the package or you feel uncomfortable receiving it – you can refuse it. If it’s a repair or service person, ask to see some identification. Always be as sure as possible about the person you are inviting into your home.
Peepholes: Don't answer your door without knowing who is behind it. In order to do that, you need a peephole. If you don't have one, talk to your apartment manager or whoever oversees your home (if this is you, you want to look into this yourself). If there’s no way you can have a peephole, make sure you have a chain lock on your door – a strong one.
Alarms: Alarms are wise to have installed in your home, whether you live alone or not. This will often deter an assailant/robber from even bothering with your home. Sometimes it’s enough to stick alarm company stickers on your windows but it’s always best to go with the ‘real’ thing.
Garage doors: Never leave your garage door open, no matter how long you'll be out for. It's too tempting for an assailant/robber to pass up. If you can, leave a light on in your garage, as this will also deter anyone attempting to hide away or steal.
Your Garbage: Your garbage can tell an outsider a lot about you, and the insides of your home. Boxes that once held expensive equipment, i.e. computers or stereo systems, etc., can tell a would-be robber what can be stolen from you. Also, keep in mind what mail you throw away in your garbage. Any papers that have personal information about you should be ripped/shredded before being tossed. Never make it easy for a would-be assailant to glean information about you.
When leaving your home: After you’ve made sure that your home is locked up and you’ve done everything you can to prevent foul-play, wave as you leave. It doesn’t matter that no one is home. You know that but anyone else won’t be the wiser. If anyone is lying in wait to pounce on your house, they will think someone else is home - another great deterrent.
Check your home: It’s always a good idea to give your home the ‘once-over’ every month or so. Go through the insides of your home and check your windows, doors, attics, basements, etc. Look for signs of tampering or anything that seems out of the ordinary. Then go outside and walk around your home and look for the same things. Check all your door and window locks, testing them to be sure that they still are in good working order.
Self Defense Course: There’s nothing better than feeling safe within yourself. This can be achieved by taking a self-defense course. These courses are set to prepare you for an attack, no matter where and when it may happen. They teach you to be ready, and focus on how you can live a safer life.
Trust your instincts: If you ever feel uncomfortable upon arriving home alone or being in your home alone, always call someone. There is nothing wrong with getting someone to check it out. “Better safe than sorry”. You know what’s best for you so trust yourself.
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