Women today are more self-sufficient now than before. This is because of social media and the plethora of information available online instantly. Women get the chance to express themselves, live life on their terms, and build a career. It’s not uncommon for a woman to be her boss and handle everything from her financial status to her medical needs. However, no matter how independent you are as a woman living alone, there are still steps you can take to ensure your safety. Here are some ideas for remaining safe as a single woman:
Change The Screws On The Striker Plate
You might think, how can you be protected with a striker plate? The strike plate on the doors comes with very short screws to hold it in place. If you change out the short screws for longer screws, say 1.5″ to 2″ screws, it will be tough for someone to break your door down to harm you. They will get tired and give up breaking in.
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
It is a good thing to keep an eye on your environment. Keep a close eye on your back door, garage, and your windows. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t assume that because a door or window is locked that it’s safe. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Lock all your doors, never leave a light or television on in the house when you’re not at home and don’t leave the keys in the ignition of your vehicle.
Take A Self-Defense Class
The first step to being safe as a woman living alone is learning how to defend yourself. Self-defense classes, such as those offered by the National Women’s Resource Center, are a great way to learn to prevent and survive an attack. Classes are available in many cities. Find the best class to fit your needs. Please have a friend or family member go with you to make it a little more enjoyable.
Get A Gun
When you have your own house, you’re in charge. You’re responsible for protecting your family and protecting your home. Get a Glock 43. It is petite for a woman but still put’s off plenty of power to get the job done. If you do already have a gun, keep it locked in a safe and keep your keys away from it. Practice using your weapon, reloading your magazine, and even firing at a paper. You may not feel comfortable practicing your shooting skills with an actual target, but firing a gun at a wooden block with tin cans on top will better understand how it feels to use a firearm.
Get A Guard Animal
Get a guard dog. Dog ownership is a great way to increase the safety of a woman living alone because the presence of a loyal, loving dog can calm a nervous and lost person who’s experiencing separation anxiety. A bonus of having a dog around is that you can train them to stay close to your side and to help scare away an attacker. Many different breeds are perfect for a guard dog.
Stock Up On Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is an excellent thing to have, especially when you are loading groceries or something in your vehicle in a parking lot. It is easily accessible and easy to use. It will burn the perpetrator’s eyes, and they will not see, which in turn allows you to seek help or get away.
Install A Security System
Get a security system with cameras. If you have learned anything from watching crime shows, it’s that cameras catch criminals in the act. You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg on a system either, but make sure you get a good one. Do your research on them before you choose. Make sure you get one that is user-friendly as well.
So you aren’t afraid to live alone, make the right adjustments to live safe and comfortable. Keep an eye out for your fellow single ladies and help them out when you can.
