Living alone might have many benefits, but it is important to think about taking some extra safety precautions because of it. Here are some of the top ways that are often suggested to ensure home safety for those who live alone. 

1. Get a noisy dog

Small dogs can be a nuisance. They often are loud and child-like. This is exactly what you need when you live alone. A dog that barks, even at random times, is going to deter people from getting too close to your home. 

2. Don’t hide your keys

The ultimate tip that anyone can give you is simple. Do not hide your keys under your doormat. Take your gnome off sentry duty and put him back in the garden where he belongs. The first place an intruder is going to look is around the house for hidden keys. If you really need a spare, give one of your keys to a neighbor you can trust.

3. Talk to everyone

Get to know the people that live around you. Reach out to them when you go for a walk. Visit with them while you are doing yard work. Home safety starts there. Developing a tight network and relationship with those around you will allow for all of you to look out for each other and stop unwanted activity.  

4. Fake it

Don’t make it obvious that you live alone. Put extra shoes on the front porch. Turn on lights in extra bedrooms. Announce yourself when you are getting up to answer the door. A simple “I’ll get it” can fool anyone into thinking that there is someone else in the house.

5. Don’t trust anyone

If you have to have repairs done, cable hooked up, or anything else that requires letting a stranger in the house, invite someone over. Call a friend over for a movie day. Invite your nosey neighbor for coffee. Don’t put yourself in a vulnerable situation.  There is safety in numbers. 

6. Have a contact

Pick one or more people to talk to regularly and set it up so that if they don’t hear from you; they will reach out. Do the same for them.  With today’s technology, this is pretty simple.  Communicating on social media, texting or just a quick chat on the phone can make this quick and easy.

7. Light up the place

This is essential to home safety. The more light you have the less hiding places you give an intruder. Install motion sensor lights that will come on when you need them too. 

8. Get Help

Seriously, if you need help call someone. Climbing wiggly ladders, pulling heaving things off high shelves, even moving furniture can cause home safety problems and are best done with a buddy.

9. Have a safety plan

You want to be prepared should something happen to you. Have a plan of action that includes having emergency numbers within reach. Ideally, you should keep your cell phone in the same room with you.

Above all use your common sense. If something feels unsafe, it probably is. Trust your instinct and protect yourself.