Preparing Yourself to Protect Your Loved Ones and Your Home

Violence against women presents itself in many ways. After the recent #MeToo campaign, it was estimated that as many as 80% of American women have been either sexually harassed or assaulted. At present, homicide is rated as the fifth most common cause of death of women between the ages of 18 and 44 with more than 50% of these deaths occurring at the hands of a current or previous boyfriend, husband or intimate partner. Taking these harrowing figures as well as the prevalence of home invasions into consideration, it is becoming increasingly important for women to protect themselves as well as their families by whichever legal means possible.

Invest in a Good Security System

Thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT) there are an increasing number of smart and effective home security systems on the market that can keep your home free of invaders. Smartlocks, smart doorbells, perimeter cameras, and complete home security systems can all successfully contribute towards keeping you safe at home. Ideally, invest in a home security system that not only boasts full camera surveillance and multiple-sensor alarms but strategically-placed panic buttons as well. Even if you can’t afford a state-of-the-art security system right away you can make your home more secure with sturdy burglar bars, security gates, and dead-bolted doors.

Get a Gun

It is impossible to dispute the fact that we as women need to be able to protect ourselves and our loved ones from violent crimes and our homes from invasion. The decision on whether to carry a gun or not should be based on thorough research and education instead of emotions and preconceived prejudices. Being able to safely use a weapon could save your life and protect your property, but only if you are convinced that you will be able to pull the trigger should the need arise. You may even eventually want to invest in additional accessories for your firearm such as the best pistol red dot scope.

Know the Law

If you do decide to carry a gun it is pivotal that you familiarize yourself with local and federal laws pertaining to gun ownership and the use of lethal deadly force. Make sure you know whether you are allowed to shoot an intruder who does not appear to be armed and dangerous or whether you need to fire a warning shot first or retreat. By learning the laws applicable to you, you will be able to defend yourself effectually without running the risk of ending up in prison yourself.

Be Mindful of what you Post on Social Media

An increasing number of predators are lurking on the internet and social media in particular, constantly searching for easy targets. Even if you think that your Facebook account is secure, you can never be entirely sure who is lurking in the shadows of your friends’ list. As excited as you may be to be spending the day alone at home, catching up on your favorite TV series, announcing it on social media could turn you into a very vulnerable target.

Keep Your Travel Plans to Yourself

The same applies to travel plans or, sadly, even outings with your children. Don’t ever lot on that you will be home alone or that your home will be unoccupied for whatever period of time as this is as good as opening your front door to a group of intruders. By being mindful of what you post where, you can end up saving yourself and your family a lot of grief.

In this modern day and age, women are more independent than ever before, including with regards to their own safety and security. By following the guidelines above and employing your own common sense you can improve your own personal safety significantly.

Thanks to Jane Sandwood