Security Tips For People Who Feel Anxious When Home Alone
While having your home to yourself can feel liberating, it could also come with some concerns. Those living single or spending time alone in the house have to stay vigilant by having a good security system and not partake in certain activities like sharing vacation plans on social media. Also, adopting a dog or fixing an appliance can give you more confidence. Continue reading to get some helpful advice on the best tips for people living by themselves or when you're the only one home.
Always Keep The Curtains Closed If You're Not Home
It's always important to make sure everything in your house is safe and secure before leaving. One thing those living alone should do before going away is closing their curtains or blinds.
This is crucial because if outsiders have a way to see into your home, they can figure out if you have anything that's worth stealing. They'll also be able to tell if anyone is home and can track when you enter and exit the house.
Splurge On A Security Camera
Your eyes can't be everywhere at once. Luckily, many advanced security cameras are readily available and have easy access to connect with a mobile or tablet device.
Many brands of security cameras are relatively affordable and will alert you the second they detect motion wherever they are set up. People have tons of security videos of people stealing their packages, trying to break into their homes, and more, so these really are worth the money.
Try Communicating With Your Neighbors
While no one likes a nosy neighbor, it's beneficial to have some sort of friendly relationship with them. Neighbors are great for lending a hand and want to make sure the area stays safe.
One thing that people should share with a neighbor that they trust is their day-to-day whereabouts. If a neighbor knows that you are usually working during a certain time, they may become concerned if they see someone approaching your property during that time. Then, they can warn you and shoo away any intruders.
Adopt A Dog
It's normal for someone living alone to feel anxious. There's no one physically present to give you company, so it can make you vulnerable. One way to ease that anxiety is to adopt a dog.
They can serve as a perfect guard dog because many have a keen intuition for sensing danger. Their barks can startle an intruder and cause them to leave out of fear of being attacked. They're also a great companion and will most likely give you a lot of love.
Don't Post Vacation Plans On Social Media
Social media is where people post the most exciting parts of their lives, so it can be tempting to share information about getting out of the house. It's important to not post information about you leaving town, going out for the night, or that you live alone.
If those posts get into the wrong hands, it can lead to intruders coming to burglarize your home or they may even try to hurt you. Instead, many social media platforms have filters for sharing only with specific people on your friends list.
Keep The Lights On
Intruders are less likely to try and break into a house that has the lights on because it signals that someone is home. People who live alone should try to keep their lights on as much as possible.
If the inside of your home is visible to outsiders, try having at least one light on throughout the night. It's also a good idea to invest in some motion-sensor outdoor lights that will turn on if anyone passes by.
Don't Be Afraid To Call For Help
People who live alone realize they have to put their senses to the test on a regular basis. Making sure you stay safe can make all the difference in the world.
This means that if you suspect there could be something going on around you that doesn't seem right, don't hesitate to call for help. You can call a neighbor, the landlord, or, in more serious circumstances, the police. It's better to get everything under control before anything dangerous happens.
Lock It Up
Anyone living alone needs to keep all entry points locked at almost all times. First, start by changing the locks after you move in just in case someone you don't know has a copy of the old key.
It's a good idea to lock your doors and windows any time you step out of the house. This doesn't just mean if you're going away to work for the day. Even a short trip to the mailbox or to pick up your garbage cans could lead to an intruder entering your home at a moment's notice.
Don't Forget To Clean Up
Just because someone is living alone doesn't mean they should forgo cleaning up after themselves. It can feel powerful not having to clean up right after a mess is made, but people shouldn't let their homes get dirty or disgusting.
This doesn't mean you have to deep clean on a regular basis, but doing the basics such as washing your dishes, cleaning the shower, or vacuuming the floor is essential. Your guests will appreciate the effort too.
Have Tools On Hand
It's common for household appliances to break down and people who live alone will most likely need to learn how to be mini fixer-uppers. Having a toolset on hand is a great way to start.
Many appliances can be fixed with a little elbow grease, a screwdriver, hammer, and nails. If you've never used tools and are apprehensive about fixing things yourself, there are plenty of online videos that will guide you step by step on whatever issue you have. Renters can also depend on landlords or maintenance workers.
Prepare An Emergency Supply Kit
An emergency can strike at any moment, so it's always best to be prepared for all kinds of scenarios. One way that you can get started is by creating an emergency supply kit.
Some things that are good to include in the kit are non-perishable food items, a flashlight, a first aid kit, blankets, clothes, matches, tools, and water. Store the kit in an easily accessible place in your home that you'll be able to grab at a moment's notice.
Don't Keep Spare Keys At Home
If your door is locked, but an intruder is set on breaking in, they will look all over for a spare key. Some people may think they're being sneaky by keeping it under a mat or special rock, but those hiding spots are very common.
It's actually best not to keep the key on your property. Instead, leave the key with someone you trust such as a neighbor or friend. So, if you ever get locked out you can easily call to get the key and a burglar will never find it.
Why Workers Shouldn't Come Over If You're Alone
Most people will need to have maintenance workers come over to fix common issues such as a broken pipe, spotty internet connection, or get the house painted. If you live alone, try to have at least one person you trust come over while the workers are at your house.
While this may seem a bit extreme, it's best not to let people you don't know into your house without a friend, family member, or neighbor present. It can make you a target for an intrusion or robbery.
Invite Friends and Neighbors Over
Living alone can be a lot of fun. You'll have the freedom to invite the people you want over at any time day or night. Having some friends and neighbors over can also help with home security.
Intruders are less likely to try and break into a house that is very noisy because they know they could easily get caught. It also gives off the illusion that a lot of people live at your house, so a possible thief won't likely return.
Always Have An Exit Strategy
When an emergency hits, it doesn't give you much time to think about your next move. This is why it's crucial for people who live alone to come up with an efficient exit strategy.
Your time will most likely be limited, so attaching a ladder outside an upstairs window or creating a clear path to a backdoor are great ways to prepare. An emergency kit of supplies should be kept near your choice of exit, so you can grab it as you go.
Address All Safety Concerns As Soon As You Move In
The excitement of moving into a new place on your own is indescribable, but there are some things that need to be done before you settle in. First, always do a safety check.
"Make sure your door is solid wood or metal, add deadbolts to all of your entrances, check other entry points such as windows, and make sure your walkways are lit," said safety expert Sarah Brown. If anything seems off, it's vital to get it fixed as soon as possible.
Try To Leave The House Daily
One of the reasons people might feel a little depressed is because they haven't left their house in a long time. In order to shake off that feeling, make it a goal to leave the house daily.
These don't need to be long excursions. A trip to the grocery store, a 15-minute stroll around the neighborhood, or sitting outside at a coffee shop can be a great way to clear your head and step into the outside world. You may even meet a new friend.
Stay In Touch With Your Friends And Family
Living by yourself can get really lonely and it's important to regularly carve out time where you can be social. An easy way to get started is to call or video chat with your friends and family.
This can strengthen your support system and help ease any depressive or anxious feelings from lack of socialization. Your loved ones will also appreciate getting some one-on-one time with you. In order to remember planned calls, set a reminder on your phone.
Appreciate Your Alone Time
Living alone does not need to be something to worry over. This is a time where people are learning a lot about being an adult and don't have the pressures of living with a spouse or children.
That's why it's important to appreciate any alone time that you get. Allow yourself to unwind at the end of a busy day with a good meal, your favorite TV show, a bath, skincare routine, meditation, or anything else you enjoy.
Place A Plastic Bag Over Your Car Window
It can be tough figuring out how to get certain things done when you live alone. One thing that may slow you down is wiping the frost from your car before you leave.
Instead of stopping for help from a stranger, you can prevent the frost from sticking to your side view mirrors. All you need to do is wrap some sealable plastic bags around them and secure it with rubber bands. The plastic bags prevent condensation, so the frost won't form.