According to the 2014 U.S. Census, 28% of Americans live alone and that number is increasing annually. Whether you are renting or owning, the same safety measures apply to every individual and household, but people who live alone should take some extra precautions to help ensure their safety at home.
1. Invest in a monitored home security system.
The most important measure you can take is to have a monitored home security system that will alert you, as well as, your security company, fire and police in the event of an incident. There are many options available based on your lifestyle, needs, and budget. A monitored home security system can greatly increase peace of mind for those who live alone.
2. Install exterior lighting over doorways, driveways and parking lots.
It's no secret that burglars prefer to go unseen, therefore it is extremely important to have proper lighting around the exterior of your home. Motion-sensor floodlights around the vulnerable area’s of your home such as entrances, driveway, and backyard can scare off intruders and are convenient for you when you arrive home after dark.
3. Additional window security.
In addition to high quality window locks, drapes and/or blinds prevent people from seeing in. Consider planting thorny vegetation, like rose bushes, under windows to discourage anyone from getting close to windows.
4. Keep your yard and lawn looking nice.
Burglars are always on the look-out for unoccupied homes and nothing says you’re away, like an unplowed driveway, unshoveled walkways, or an overgrown lawn in the summer months. Find time or hire someone to plow and shovel, and cut the grass and trim the hedges when you are away.
5. Get to know your neighbors.
Neighbors can act as an extra set of eyes. They can help you keep your home secure when you travel, by helping with tasks like picking up mail, newspapers, and keeping an eye out for suspicious activity around your home.
6. Use care on social media websites.
In addition to avoiding posting travel plans on social media sites, don't post messages indicating you're home alone. Avoid posting pictures of valuable new purchases, such as a laptop, tablet or HD television.
7. Consider adopting a dog or a cat.
A dog should never be used to replace a security system but a four-legged friend can be an effective addition to your security if you are frequently home alone. Small dogs with loud barks will be able to alert you when they sense suspicious activity around your home. Having a cat can even help, as burglars tend to avoid homes with pets because they often get in the way and are unpredictable.
Living alone can be scary at times but with the right precautions you should have nothing to worry about. Trust your instincts and use your common sense. If you don’t feel comfortable or fear you might be in danger, get help! Implementing the above tips will bring you greater peace of mind.
Contact Tasco today at 800-546-5552 to schedule a free assessment of your current security system to ensure it’s properly protecting you. Or, if you are in need of a new system, Tasco will happily work with you to design the perfect system to fit your unique lifestyle and needs.
Tasco Security has been providing peace-of-mind security solutions to the Upper Valley of New Hampshire and Vermont for over 59 years.