As a 20’s-something, I have many friends who have been moving out into their own space. I aspire to do the same in the near future, and with so many people living on their own, there are many thoughts on how you can live a safer life. There are numerous practical safety tips for those who are living alone.
Feeling comfortable with your personal safety is a part of living a happy and secure life. Many people are home alone for various reasons such as being a single mom, going off to college, getting your own place after graduating etc… There are a few simple precautions and investments that can effectively help you feel safer.
Find A Safe Apartment
When you are looking into finding a place to live, it can be wise to google the neighborhood’s crime rate. Look into your state’s safest cities to help you learn where you likely want to live. Pay attention to reviews of the area which can help reduce the likelihood of any serious security issues in the future. If you feel the neighborhood of your new apartment is safe, the neighbors seem friendly and you feel a sense of comfort, then you found an apartment worth investing in.
Install Security Cameras
Installing a security camera might be something you need to ask your landlord about. Having a security camera that is visible to potential burglars can alert them that your home is not worth the risk. There are cameras that you can even hook up to your phone so when you are not there, you can check in on your home. Installing security cameras can help you feel safer at home, and while your home is vacant during travels.
While many people live on their own and take safety precautions at home, a lot of people also own a business. Yourself, a family member, or a close friend may have recently opened a commercial business. Your brick-and-mortar business is just as important as your home, and should be taken care of with proper security measures. Tech Services of NJ is a company that has several quality reviews and state of the art technology. The best part is that they install the technology themselves to save you time, and ensure it’s done correctly. This NJ facility maintenance company offers 30 years of expert experience for facility maintenance, training, and handling the repairs of your business. If you or anyone you know owns a business and want to increase it’s security, I recommend looking into a quality security system!
Look At Emergency Exits
Before you move into your apartment, be sure to check the fire escapes and exit doors in the building. Make sure all exit doors and locks are not blocked. Figure out how to escape if a fire or natural disaster happens. Also, I recommend talking to your landlord about where the nearest exit is, where you should go if a fire does occur, and what other precautions you should take.
Get To Know Neighbors
One way to feel safe in your apartment is to introduce yourself to neighbors in your building. If you live alone, you basically have to face everything yourself. Having a good relationship with your neighbors is beneficial as you can mutually help each other out (plus make a friend). If you are away on vacation or at work, a trustworthy neighbor can help alert you in a serious emergency.
Don’t Share That You Are Living Alone
While it might seem obvious to some if you are living by yourself, don’t share that information off hand to strangers. You could become an easy target, especially if they know you are alone. When it’s dark, make sure you keep some lights turned on inside and outside of your home. Burglars often avoid a well-lit-home. This can help protect your place from break-ins and make you feel safer while alone at night. Finally, once you have made friends with people you trust, ask them over to your place every now and then so it looks like a few people are around.
Living alone can be exciting, but you should definitely consider getting proper security. Knowing how to keep yourself safe both in your home or out of your home is vital. I would be cautious about posting your schedule on any social media pages. Additionally, I wouldn’t make it public information that you are sitting at home alone. Your safety and privacy are important when you are by yourself!