Living alone is one of the most empowering experiences there is. It also means you are the one responsible for keeping your home safe. Whether you just moved into your first place, downsized after the kids left, or have lived on your own for years, this checklist gives you a practical approach to home safety that will help you feel genuinely secure.
Start With Your Entry Points
Every exterior door should have a deadbolt, not just a knob lock. If you moved in recently, rekey or replace the locks right away. The previous owners, tenants, or contractors may have copies of the old keys. Reinforce door frames with 3-inch screws on the strike plate. A video doorbell lets you see and speak to anyone before opening the door. For sliding glass doors, use a security bar in the track or a pin lock as a second layer of protection.
Secure Every Window
Walk through every window and confirm each one latches and locks properly. Ground-floor windows or any window reachable from outside should have secondary window pins or keyed locks. Window AC units should be bolted in so they cannot be pushed inward from outside.
Use Lighting Strategically
A well-lit exterior deters unwanted attention. Install motion-sensor lights at every entry point and around any dark areas of your yard or walkway. Inside, use smart plugs or lamp timers so lights cycle on and off automatically while you are away, making the home appear occupied.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Every bedroom, every hallway outside sleeping areas, and every main living space needs a working smoke detector. Carbon monoxide detectors belong near sleeping areas and on each floor of the home. Test them monthly, replace batteries annually, and replace the full unit every 10 years.
Know Your Emergency Shutoffs
Know exactly where these three things are in your home: your main water shutoff valve, your electrical panel, and your gas meter shutoff. Take photos and save them in your phone. Label anything unlabeled. In an emergency, this preparation can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.
Build a Simple Home Emergency Kit
Keep a kit with a flashlight and batteries, a first aid kit, at least three days of water and non-perishable food, a backup phone charger, cash, and any medications you take. Store it somewhere you can grab it quickly.
Smart Daily Habits
Lock your door every time, even briefly. Keep your garage remote inside your home, not in your car. Be thoughtful about your home address on social media. Always use vetted, background-checked, insured professionals when inviting anyone in for repairs or services.
HerHaven Is Here to Help
Installing deadbolts, adding door reinforcement, mounting security cameras, and replacing outdated detectors all require a skilled hand. HerHaven Home Services is a woman-owned company in Kansas City built specifically around the safety and comfort of women in their homes. Our technicians are fully vetted and background-checked. Call us at (913) 600-1187 or visit herhavenhomeservices.com.