Security and Safety
You and your family value safety and security. You want your home to be safe from all criminals and attackers.
The same goes for cyber security. Let's explore what you can do to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
Single Mom Security Solutions
You’re working somewhere in the neighborhood of 11 days a week (Oh, wait. That’s what it feels like). Anyway, you work full-time while your kids are in school. After you get them out the door and on the bus, you have a few minutes to chug a third cup of coffee and get yourself out the door. You pick the kids up from school daily to save some time, and when you all arrive home, there is dinner to make, homework to oversee, chores to complete, and whatever else unexpectedly appears on the task list. You simply have no time for anything (or anyone) else. This is why you haven’t spent a second thinking about how to keep you and your kids safe inside your home.
It is easy to overlook your own safety. You’ve likely left an unhealthy relationship and feel like you are in a much safer environment than you and the kids were used to living in. The fact that you are now the sole head-of-the-household may or may not draw additional attention to you from those who are looking to threaten, intimidate, or harm you or your children. You’re home alone with your children. You no longer have a male in the home to help keep you feeling safe. If you haven’t yet considered ways to keep you and the kids safe, let us shed some light on some simple and basic things you can do.
Feel Secure, Be secure.
~ In General ~
You want your home to be safe and secure at all times, not just sometimes. It’s time to think about keeping yourself and your kids safe from unwanted and unwelcome hurt. For starters, don’t publicize the fact that you’re single, especially if you’re newly single. You don’t want to draw attention to the fact that it’s just you and the kids. This may make you appear vulnerable and an easy target. Don’t use social media as a way to let others know of your status or your plans. Keep it under wraps.
It’s never a bad idea to think outside the box, either. For example, you may want to invest in some self-defense classes. Of course, you may think it’s unnecessary, but many people who do take these kinds of classes also hope they’ll never have to use the knowledge as a means to protect themselves or others they love. It’s like insurance; you pay for it hoping you’ll never need it, but if you do, you’re glad you pay the premium.
~ Inside The Home ~
* Lock windows and doors
* Don’t forget about basements and back doors
* Get a security system installed
* Change the locks if necessary
* Install motion sensor alarms and lights
* Have a list of 10-15 safety contacts posted & easily accessible
* Close curtains at night
* Request to have your telephone number unlisted
* Consider getting a pet (dogs can offer protection)
* Keep self-defense weapons in a safe place
- flashlight
- pepper spray
- tactical pen/knife
- stun gun
- baseball bat
- golf club
~ Outside The Home ~
* Use a doorbell camera
* Install motion sensor alarms and lights
* Consider a P.O. Box vs. mailbox
* Vary your routine
* Get to know your neighbors
* Never give anyone a spare key (unless a trusted family member)
* Don’t hide a spare key
* Be mindful of landscaping (is it easy for an intruder to hide?)
* Carry a self-defense weapon/tool in your purse
- flashlight
- pepper spray
- tactical pen/knife
- stun gun
These ideas aren’t meant to scare you. We just want you to be aware of your surroundings and the possibility of others inflicting harm. Statistically, single moms have made for easy targets of burglaries and for other unsuspecting criminals. We know you would never want anything to happen to your children, especially if you had the capability to prevent it.
The main thing to remember is to be mindful of your surroundings and always trust your instincts. Maintain your privacy; no one should be able to anticipate your next move. Avoid being too predictable. You’re well on your way to continuing to build a great and safe life for you and your kids. You’ve got this, brave mama!
Home Security
Alarm Systems
There are many types and styles of alarm systems. Some are great and some are worthless.
Keeping Your Home Safe
Smoke Alarms, Smoke Detectors, Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Smoke alarms save lives. Home fires caused by falling asleep with a lit cigarette may be more common than you think, which is why in most places that smoke alarms are not a luxury, they are legally required in residences. Carbon Dioxide is another killer and a detector for it is highly recommended.
Self-Defense And Other Defense
Ninja Mom
You probably won't really be a ninja mom but you still may need to know a few things about defending yourself, one day. Hopefully it never happens, but if you are ready, you will be more able to save the lives of your children or yourself.
Like everything else, you need knowledge and experience, to be effective. Martial Arts classes are nearly everywhere and you can do a search online for some near you. There are also many Youtube videos online. Watching those can be useful but only if you practice and keep yourself physically fit.