Living alone has major benefits. You have total control of the TV remote. You have sole access to the bathroom. And you can wear whatever you want, whenever you want. However, there are also some major drawbacks. Security is the biggest one.
Unfortunately, living along makes you a target for home invasion. And it makes sense. When you’re solo, you’re seen as more vulnerable.
Most people don’t have time to set up an elaborate security system. But there are small steps you can take to deter criminal activity in and around your house. Here are eight ways to increase the safety of your home.
1. Invest in outdoor lighting.
Outdoor lighting is a huge deterrent for intruders and snoops. But just make sure you don’t leave your lights on around the clock. Burglars typically know that’s a ploy. Follow the same rule with interior lighting. But if you’re actually home, it doesn’t hurt to switch on an extra lamp or two.
2. Use psychological tricks.
If you’re a woman, a fantastic psychological deterrent is to leave a pair of men’s size 13 or 14 boots outside your front door. Another common deterrent is a large dog’s water bowl.
3. Change your locks.
We tend to instinctively trust locks. But when you move into a new apartment, you don’t know how many people have keys to your home. The best thing you can do in this situation is a lock overhaul. Pester your landlord until he actually follows through with that task.
4. Reinforce your locks.
Deadbolts are great, but they’re typically not enough. Consider looking into a company such as OnGARD, which produces a door brace that allows your door to withstand up to 1,800 pounds of force!
5. Always lock your door, no matter what.
It doesn’t matter if you’re just running downstairs to grab the mail or take out the trash. Your door should be locked at all times. It only takes a second or two for someone to slip into your apartment while your back is turned.
6. If you don’t have a security system, fake it.
Burglars usually look for signs of a security system before you choose a target. If you need a temporary fix while you get a security system installed, these strategies will work. Display security signs and decals, and install fake security cameras. These things will definitely deter a potential intruder.
7. Be smart with social media.
Don’t post about your international vacation, weekend trip, or long work hours while you’re out of the house. Post photos after you return. Burglars tend to prey on individuals who aren’t present. In addition – Did you know you can opt out of Google Earth? You can remove your home by contacting Google.
8. Get to know your neighbors.
The more neighbors you connect with, the more likely they’ll report an unusual incident, watch your home while you’re on vacation, or call the police if you need help. Just use good judgment when deciding which neighbors to trust.