Security and Safety Tips for People Who Live Alone
Do you live alone? According to the most recent Census Bureau survey, approximately 12% of all men and 15% of all women in the United States live alone. Some people may be very settled in, living alone for years. While others may be living alone for the first time, due to death, divorce or the “empty nest.”
Or maybe you aren’t living by yourself, but you have a college student or an elderly relative who lives alone. The elderly can be particularly vulnerable to scams and burglaries.
So, what are some good safety strategies for those who live alone?
Befriend Your Neighbors
Neighbors can prove invaluable for keeping an eye on things for people who live alone. If your neighbors know who you are and your general routine, they will be more likely to notice unusual activity around your home while you are away at work, on vacation, or simply getting a coffee down the street.
Watch What You Post on Social Media
Use common sense when posting information on social media networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. Burglars have become increasingly savvy in their ways to target homes, often using social media to determine when a home is unoccupied or otherwise vulnerable.
Avoid posting information such as vacation dates, travel plans, or things that make it obvious you live alone. As an added level of protection, set your personal accounts to “private” so that only your friends and family can see them.
Adopt a Dog
This one is for the animal enthusiasts out there. If you have been considering adopting a dog, this is another great measure for increasing the security of your property. Even the smallest of dogs will loudly announce the presence of strangers approaching your home.
Not ready to adopt a furry new roommate? You can still purchase a “BEWARE OF DOG” sign and place it in the windows near your front and rear entrance. Put out a dog bowl and some dog toys to further paint a picture you own a dog.
Burglars look for the easiest target so having a dog will likely encourage them to pass you by when scouting opportunities for theft.
Inspect and Fix Vulnerabilities
Especially if you’re new to your home or apartment, go around and carefully inspect every door and window. Do the window locks work? Do all exterior doors have a deadbolt? Get door locks changed and be mindful of storing a key outside (we covered this in an earlier post).
Do the exterior lights work? The best option is motion-sensing lights to startle anyone approaching at night.
Moving to a New Place?
In an apartment or condo complex, access to the property and areas like the pool, fitness center and clubhouse should be restricted to residents only. If there aren’t gates, card readers or keyed locks for these areas, this isn’t the right new home for you.
Also, the common areas such as parking garages and hallways need to be well-lit. If not, immediately bring this to the attention of the property management if this is somewhere you plan to live.
When possible, choose a unit that is close to your parking area and avoid any units that are secluded, back up to a wooded area or are farther away from the main amenities.
Use a Personal Security App
There are several free and inexpensive personal security apps that can turn your smartphone into a lifesaver. They range from creating a “panic button” that can create a loud alarm sound, to instantly sending texts and emails to others that you’re in trouble.
Invest in a Monitored Security System
There’s no better way to protect your home from burglars, vandals and other criminals than by installing a monitored security system. A typical security system consists of door sensors, window sensors, and motion sensors. Some include video surveillance as well.
Monitored security systems are connected to a company that is notified immediately whenever the alarm is triggered, or if you activate a panic button.
If you are away and an intruder trips your alarm, the monitoring company will attempt to contact you. If you fail to answer, or provide the wrong password, they’ll contact the local police.
By following these simple security tips, you can feel more relaxed about living alone!
Cultris Security Systems has been protecting residential and commercial properties for more than 12 years.
We can recommend a security system that fits your needs and your budget. Call us at 281-506-8466 or visit us online today!
