Every capable, independent woman, deserves to feel safe at home. But even the strongest of us can benefit from a few extra security measures. Here are some strategies to boost your confidence and create a safer haven at home. By being aware of your surroundings and implementing these tips, you can rest easy.
Beef Up The Security System
If you’re moving into a new home, you’ll want to make sure security is top priority. Since the previous owner or someone they know might still have the original keys, changing the locks as soon as possible is crucial. Consider investing in a reliable security system. A good system will equip doors and windows with sensors, so any unauthorized entries will set the alarm off, deter intruders, and alert the authorities.
For an extra layer of security, consider supplementing your alarm system with outdoor security cameras. Choose cameras that are wired to your lights and equipped with motion sensors. In addition to deterring the intruders, the light illuminates the camera and helps capture footage in case of an incident.
Finally, leverage smart technology to your advantage. Install a video doorbell near your front door. Whenever someone rings the bell or approaches the entrance, you’ll receive an instant notification on your phone with a live feed. This not only helps deter intruders but is also a good way for you to be notified of deliveries or expected visitors.
Find A Place Where It’s Safe
In addition to security system, research potential neighborhood. Check crime statistics and talk to locals to understand the area’s safety for women and girls.
If you need to travel at night, stick to well-lit areas. Many cities in the US are bringing nighttime safety to a new level by adding smart streetlights. These lights activate with motion detection, deterring crime and alerting authorities if needed. This is a relatively new tech, but it may be beneficial if your desired city has them. If you already live in a home, attend a community meeting. Advocate for smart streetlights on your street.
Learn How To Tackle Life-Threatening Health Emergencies
Living alone empowers you to be self-sufficient and that includes being prepared for health emergencies.Have a well-stocked first-aid kit. This should include bandages, gauze, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, and any medication you regularly use. You should be familiar with basic lifesaving skills. Consider taking a CPR/First Aid course to be prepared for a wider range of emergencies. If you cut yourself, rinse the wound with clean water and cover it with a gauze to stop any bleeding.
Learn basic first-aid procedures, but it’s important to note that performing the Heimlich maneuver on yourself is not recommended (by medical professionals). If you are choking alone, the American Red Cross recommends the following:
- Make a fist with one hand and place it just above your navel, below your ribcage.
- Grasp your fist with your other hand and thrust hard inward and upward.
- Repeat until the object dislodges or help arrives.
In any choking emergency, call emergency services immediately.
Here are some common home emergencies you should be prepared for:
- Kitchen Grease Fire – Smother the fire with baking soda or carefully cover the pan with a lid to cut off oxygen. Turn off the stove immediately.
- Power Outage – Keep flashlights handy and avoid opening the refrigerator door unless necessary. This will prevent the food from spoiling.
- Gas Leak – Evacuate your home immediately and don’t turn on any electrical appliances. Call emergency services.
- Broken Glass – Use duct tape to safely pick up the smaller pieces, then mop or vacuum If it’s a broken window, cut a trash bag and put it over the opening until you can fix it properly.
Regularly inspect your home for potential hazards and address them promptly to minimize the risk of emergencies.
Considerations Around Other People
When you live alone, it’s important to know the people who live near you.
If you live in an apartment, get to know your landlord and neighbors. They can be your allies and let you know when there are issues in your unit when you’re not home. They can also inform you about potential plumbing and electrical issues affecting your dwelling. If living in a house, take the time to get to know a few neighbors, be a part of the community.
Feeling secure also involved preparedness. Consider taking a self-defense course. Learn basic techniques like escaping chokeholds and how to deter attackers. If you feel the need, you may also want to opt to learn how to correctly use things like pepper spray.
Conclusion
You can take charge of your safety create a haven of peace in your own home. Start implementing some of these tips today. By taking a few preventive steps, you’ll be happier and more confident at home.
About The Author
Ainsley Lawrence is a freelance writer from the Pacific Northwest. She enjoys writing about the ways technology, education, and wellness intersect and impact our everyday lives. She is frequently lost in a good book.
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