Your late teenage years are usually when you are planning to move out for the very first time. You may be gaining your very first home all to yourself, or maybe you are moving out of your parents’ home and sharing with flatmates. Whether you are living alone in your own property, or you will be spending time alone in a property when your flatmates are absent, it is easy to feel on edge about being alone for the first time, especially as a young woman. Moving out is a big step in itself but living alone makes it a lot harder to get used to.
With this in mind, here are 5 ways you can look to feel more safe and comfortable when spending time alone in your home.
- Install Security
Home security does not have to be really expensive. Any extra measures you can take will help you to feel safer. You may want to install an extra lock on the door, an alarm system or even a smart video doorbell so you can see who is outside.
- Be Mindful About Your Lights and Windows
You want to feel comfortable when spending time in your own home. With this in mind, be sure to fit all windows with thick blinds or curtains so that you can have full privacy. Additionally, make sure to turn on lights so that your home remains well-lit —both so you can see everything and so that your home does not look empty and vulnerable.
- Consider Getting a Dog
This will take a lot of research and consideration on whether it is the right decision for you, but if you are in a position to get a dog, it can be a great choice when living alone. Not only do dogs provide companionship for those living alone and help you to feel more at ease, but they are great for security if you have a guard dog. Even simply the presence of a dog in a home can act as a deterrent for unwanted attention, and if yours is very vocal about those who pass by your door, then this can help to protect you and your property.
When considering a dog, be sure to understand the commitment and what you need to look into, such as your lifestyle routine and petcare costs. Finding a dependable treatment service for your dog, like Colonial Animal Hospital, means you can rest easy knowing all their care treatments are covered.
- Lock Your Windows and Doors
Get into the habit of always locking your door behind you and checking that all your windows are locked. Even if you are in the house and it is daytime, locking the door straight away after you have entered the property will help you to feel more secure, and it is a good routine to get into.
- Get to Know Your Neighbours
This can sometimes be an intimidating prospect, but if the opportunity arises for you to say hello to your neighbours and get to know them, this can help to make you feel a lot more secure in your property. You will feel as though there is someone you can trust right next door, and it will also help to keep your property safe when you are not in it if the neighbours are staying aware on your behalf.
Make sure to always feel safe and comfortable in your own home, and always contact someone you trust or emergency services if you feel you need to at any time.
