Many women live alone these days, in apartments, condos, and in their own homes. We have as much right to live as we want as any man. We shouldn’t have to live differently or take special precautions, but unfortunately, we should. Self-advocacy for women living alone is a set of habits that can help keep us safe by creating the illusion that we are not living alone and evasion tactics that make us difficult targets.
If you are moving into an apartment building, do not take an apartment on the lower level or on the ground floor. These floors offer the greatest opportunity for window break-ins. Similarly, if you live in a house, make sure that the windows on the lower floors are secure (locked from the inside with the shades drawn) and free of external visual obstructions, such as shrubs and other landscaping materials, so you can see easily. from the street and neighbors.
Speaking of neighbors, get to know yours. You don’t need to make them your best friends. You just need to familiarize yourself with them. They could all take care of each other. They could also provide you with a safe haven if you were in a situation where you did not feel your own home was unsafe (someone was in your home) or suspected that someone else was or was.
When identifying your PO box, doorbell or door, use only your last name and first initial, not Miss, Mrs. o Ms. Have a peephole in your front door and do not open it unless you can identify the visitor. Never let unknown people pass that you are alone. You may want to yell, “I’ll get it!” after checking the peephole and before opening the door. If a service person knocks on your door unexpectedly, display your ID and call the company to make sure it’s a legitimate service call.
If you have an answering machine on your landline, please do not include your name, just your number if you feel it is necessary. Don’t say you’re not home, just that “we” can’t answer the phone right now. I have seen the suggestion that a male friend or relative record the message, although that may also deter potential dates. If you don’t have it, get the caller ID.
Lock the exterior doors; this should be an easy habit to pick up. Let’s not make it easy for these criminals! If you live in an apartment building, always lock the outside door, common area doors, and of course, the door to your residence. Chain locks, while giving a sense of security, are actually easy to break with a shoulder or kick. Deadbolts are great as long as they are properly installed and locked. For added security, a deadbolt can be installed on the back (inside) of a door. It can only be locked from the inside and cannot be opened. For more information, visit Self Defense for Women/Safety at Home.
This brings us to the keys. Do not mark your keys with any identification. Have separate key fobs for your cars and your house. Do not leave your garage door opener in your car in case it is stolen. Don’t leave a spare set of keys in the usual places that might be a no-brainer for criminals. Always have the keys at hand when you approach your car or your house. Have in your hands the one you need ready to use.
As always, self defense for women is a lot of common sense techniques faithfully practiced until they become second nature. For more information, visit personal security.