Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Always be conscious of what’s happening around you. Avoid distractions like looking at your phone or wearing headphones in unfamiliar or crowded areas.

Keep Personal Information Private: Be cautious about sharing personal information online or in public. Avoid disclosing details that could make you a target for identity theft or scams.

Lock Doors and Windows: Ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked when you’re at home or away. Consider installing deadbolts and a Ring or SimpliSafe Home security system for added protection. Modern home Security systems are very simple to install and can be installed by the homeowner.  

Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and avoid using the same password for multiple sites. Consider using a password manager to keep track of them.

Be Cautious with Strangers: If someone you don’t know approaches you, be wary. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s okay to walk away or seek help.

Have an Emergency Plan: Develop a plan for various emergencies, such as natural disasters, home invasions, or medical emergencies. Share this plan with family members or housemates.

Avoid Isolated Areas: Try to stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially when walking alone. If you’re using public transportation, stay in populated areas and be cautious of your surroundings. If you must walk alone in unlit areas, you should always carry a personal safety keychain that contains a loud alarm and a strobe light. If you are ever approached, you can easily activate the siren and the strobe. In addition, carrying a flashlight is also recommended. This is a very small investment and makes an excellent gift to protect your loved one.   

Keep Valuables Secure: Store valuables like money, jewelry, and important documents in a fireproof, waterproof secure place, such as a safe or locked drawer. There are many to choose from, and they last a lifetime. Avoid displaying valuables in plain sight.

Use Safety Features on Your Devices: Enable features like location tracking, remote locking, and data wiping on your smartphone and other devices. These can help you locate or protect your device if it’s lost or stolen.

Learn Basic Self-Defense: Consider taking a self-defense class to learn techniques for protecting yourself. Knowing how to defend yourself can boost your confidence and increase your safety. If you do not feel comfortable attending a martial arts school, another option would be to purchase a home-based training video to learn Self-Defense techniques.