Living alone can be freeing, fun, and peaceful. But it can also be more concerning and a little scary, leaving you more vulnerable to threats. We have all likely been spooked by creaking pipes or floors when alone at home.
But what if something more sinister were to occur and you’re all alone in your home? Fortunately, there are some home security strategies you can put into action to feel more safe and secure if you live at home.
1. Change Your Locks
Few people consider changing their locks when they move into a new home, whether rented or purchased. But you simply cannot know how many people have spare keys to your new home, so getting your locks changed or rekeyed is a smart precaution to take. You’ll be able to ensure no old residents can easily enter.
2. Get High-Security Locks
When changing your locks, don’t go for the cheapest option. You get what you pay for, and when you’re living alone, you should definitely go for high-security locks, or at the very least, stronger lock cores or an additional deadbolt. Ask a locksmith for their opinion on which high-security locks you should install in your home.
3. Reinforce Your Patio Doors
If a criminal cannot get in the front door thanks to your high-security locks, they will likely try to get into your home through your patio doors. Many homeowners don’t consider it, but sliding glass doors are easy targets for thieves. The standard locks are vulnerable to break-ins and should be replaced. You can also consider purchasing a door jam instead.
4. Install Motion Detector Lights
Criminals typically like to do their dirty work in the dead of night when it’s dark out. This makes them harder to see, and in turn, harder to identify. That’s why motion detector lights are great for spooking criminals and getting them to leave before they’ve even had a chance to try your locks. Plus, these lights make it safer for you to get inside late at night.
5. Reinforce Weaknesses
The side of the door jamb as well as a lock’s hardware are weak points. A window’s glass is also a weakness. Reinforcing these areas can be relatively inexpensive and can help protect your safety.
6. Adopt a Dog
A dog not only makes a great companion if you live alone but these animals also have great senses. They can hear activity going on outside your door or window even if you don’t hear a sound. They can alert you to dangerous situations and also deter crime by making their own presence known by barking.
7. Get to Know Your Neighbours
You don’t need to be best friends, but it’s a good idea to get to know your neighbours and have their contact information on hand in case a security threat is identified. When you live alone, it’s good to have allies you can rely on who are nearby.
8. Make It Seem Like More People Live in the Home
Unfortunately, criminals tend to target single-person households because there are fewer variables that can go wrong when they know they only have one resident to deal with. If possible, make it seem like there are more people living in your home. Don’t make it public knowledge that you live alone. Consider placing a couple pairs of work boots or shoes outside your door and change the name on your mailbox so it isn’t so obvious you’re the sole resident.
9. Have a Plan
Finally, although break-ins are relatively rare, it doesn’t hurt to have a plan in case it occurs. Where will you hide? Who will you call? How will you deter the robbers? With a plan in hand, you’ll be able to react more calmly and rationally rather than give way to panic and instinct.
