In these crazy times, we are constantly bombarded with real-time reports of just how dangerous the world is. Facing this reality can be daunting for any woman, but it is especially true for single women. These days more and more women are finding themselves living on their own. As liberating as it might sound, it can also be overwhelming at times. This post will discuss safety tips for single women.
Urban Angst/Suburban Bliss
I’ve lived in New York City for almost 30 years. When you live in a major metropolitan city, you almost feel wired to take certain precautions that might not necessarily be considered in the suburbs. In some ways, it’s good because this state of hypervigilance makes you more aware of your surroundings, but it can also make you distrustful of people in general.
As crazy as it sounds, when I visit the suburbs the quietness can feel unnerving at times. The city is full of in-your-face chaos whereas the suburbs make me wonder about the dangers that you can’t see. I’ve experienced both city and suburban life, so the tips listed below can apply to both.
Safety At Home
When I first moved to NYC, I lived in a small walk-up apartment and had no clue about the pitfalls that lie ahead or how to keep myself safe. Sure, my mom had pre-wired me with a certain amount of caution before I left home, but handling the unknown in NYC is an entirely different situation altogether. City life was fast-paced and scary at times. That being said, I did receive a few words of wisdom from some friends that grew up in the city.
- Your address- Share on a need-to-know basis
- If you are not expecting guests, don’t feel obligated to answer the door
- Limit the number of strangers that you allow into your home- Once people gain access to your living space they are privy to all entrances, exits, and valuables that you may have lying around. When you live alone, giving the wrong person access could be dangerous in the future
- Assume that someone could potentially be watching you- Okay, before you call me paranoid listen up. True story. After a long day of college classes, I drove home and parked my car outside of my building. The next day when I came out, I was startled to find a note on my car from a stranger. He let me know that I had unfortunately left my car lights on and that he had been watching me for some time. Sure enough, my battery was dead, but the message chilled me to the bone. Since then I am more inclined to vary my routine a little at times because you never know…
- Invest in a good alarm system- I am a big believer in video surveillance and alarms for your home. Go ahead and spring for that ring camera, everybody has one. It also allows you to monitor your home when you are away. You can’t really put a price on your peace of mind. I don’t know about you, but I enjoy a good night’s sleep
Personal Safety
- Always be aware of your surroundings- Don’t take unnecessary risks with your safety. For example, parking garages are notorious for being desolate and unsafe at times. Try to park as close to the elevator/entrance as possible. And guess what ladies, it’s okay to do a slow jog to your car in those stilettos
- Travel in groups at night- This is one of the most important tips I can offer any woman. When you are alone after dark, anything can happen. Try to arrive and leave in a group, and travel quickly from point A to point B
- Go with the flow- Do your best to stay in heavily populated areas. There is definitely safety in numbers. If an area you are visiting looks too desolate or remote opt-out
- Carry Mace or a whistle- If you are accosted by a stranger, they will both buy you time
- Call your own car service- I don’t just jump into any cab because anyone can pose as an uber driver nowadays. Stick with the drivers/services that you trust
- Go with your gut– If a situation doesn’t feel right to you, then it’s probably not
Safe Social Interactions
In the world of online dating, we have access to way more people than we would meet otherwise. It’s important to be open to these experiences but to also proceed with caution. People aren’t always who they appear to be. There are ways to keep yourself safe though.
- Meet for coffee at a public place during the day- This keeps things short, sweet, and safe
- Don’t share too much- Your date doesn’t need to know where you live or work. That will come much later
- Take your time- Get to know the person well before you integrate them into your life. It can take a while to figure out what makes someone tick
Do your thing girlfriend, you got this! Just do it safely.
If you have some time check out my previous post “Defying Expectations As A Single Woman”
https://herpicketfence.com/defying-expectations-as-a-single-woman/
