Top Safety Tips for Women Who Live Alone

Written by: Cora Gold

Living alone as a woman can be one of the most liberating experiences, as you get to make decisions and do as you please. It can also be a little scary looking after yourself, but it’s vital to take responsibility for your safety and be intentional about protecting yourself. Here are the top tips to keep yourself safe.

1. Practice Being as Present as Possible

Mindfulness can help you build present-moment awareness, which assists in reducing stress. However, it can also help you cultivate an alert yet relaxed state of mind in the long run. Pay attention to your surroundings and any changes in them so you can be your best bodyguard. Noticing them sooner can help you act faster. 

2. Frequently Change Up Your Routines

Consider making your routines more unpredictable when you can. If you find yourself going for a walk or leaving for work at a specific time, it creates a schedule that allows onlookers to anticipate your comings and goings. They can use that information to take advantage of you or your empty home in the future.

3. Exercise Caution When Moving to a New Place

Living alone means having the freedom to choose wherever you want to stay. Make sure you’re selecting a low-crime location, though. You can use apps to research the safety record in your new area. Talking to the neighbors can also provide you with some insight into the neighborhood's security ahead of moving in.

4. Double Your Locks

While most doors already come with a lock, consider adding a second. Having an additional and different locking mechanism can enhance the security of your entrances in the future. Most people combine a regular lock and key with a door latch, but you can explore other combinations. Just remember to keep the keys and passcodes close to you.

5. Have Good-Quality Window Coverings

Consider adding some blinds to your windows to stop possible intruders from spying into your home. It’s also a generally great way to enhance your home's privacy levels. A good rule of thumb is to draw these close during nighttime, though you can also do so during the day for some peace of mind.

6. Be Careful of What You Post

Sharing that you live alone on social media makes you vulnerable to intruders, so exercise caution. You should also be careful about posting where you’re heading, as it can hint at your exact location to potential stalkers. If you do want to share it online, consider using a more vague photo or try posting it at a later date.

7. Use a Carbon Monoxide Detector

Prioritizing safety also means being aware of any internal issues that may arise. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas produced by fuel-burning appliances. Higher levels can cause illness or death, so it’s best to install detectors to alert you to them. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends placing these near sleeping areas so you know of any sudden buildups right away.

8. Remember to Unplug When Leaving

Before leaving home, make a mental note to unplug all electronic appliances from their outlets. Aside from minimizing energy use and keeping your utility bills low, you’re also lowering the possibility of overheating and short circuits while you’re outside. These kinds of issues can cause damage or even start a house fire.

9. Get to Know Trustworthy Neighbors

Try to speak with your neighbors about forming a local support system, especially when there are other vulnerable residents like minors in the area. You can ask people to be window watchers, keeping an eye on things and reporting any suspicious activity.

Remember to volunteer, as well, to help share the responsibility. The authorities could also provide support.

10. Entrust Your Location to Select People

If any safety incidents do occur, it’s essential to have trusted contacts who know your current location and can check in with you. These are imperative in case health scares or sudden complications arise. Some people may feel more comfortable sharing their real-time location data with family and friends.

Bonus: Balance Your Fears

As important as it is to be safe, you also need to realize that not everyone is out to get you. Excessive worry can lead to agoraphobia, making you avoid public spaces. The fear can be so intense that you learn avoidance behaviors and stop leaving your home over time.

Remember that living alone is all about celebrating your independence, and it’s hard to do that when you live in fear. Just approach your safety with a level head, and you’ll be OK.

Stay Safe While Living Alone

Women who live alone deserve to feel free and secure at the same time. Take the right precautions at home and outside to stay safe while enjoying your independence and perhaps inspire others to do the same.