Living alone can be a dream come true for many people. No more nosey roommates or intrusive siblings – just lots of space to be by yourself. At the same time, all this alone time can make people nervous or apprehensive. There are lots of ways to improve your home security without spending a lot of extra money on a fancy security system. In fact, taking care of home security on your own can even be fun! 

1. Secure the Air Conditioning Unit 

Unless you happen to live in a high rise building, the air conditioning unit is actually a vulnerable point in your home’s security. Thieves can push the unit aside and gain access to a window without a lot of trouble. Brackets and braces can be purchased from hardware stores and installed using a few basic tools. This prevents accidental slippage, too! Add a sliding window lock to further enhance the security of this particular access point. 

2. Replace Old or Weak Locks 

Examine the locks on each of your exterior doors; how strong are they? Weak locks should certainly be replaced with sturdier ones. After all, the lock is the weakest point of any door; you should make sure that yours is visibly strong enough to deter tampering. Deadbolts and other strong locks are relatively inexpensive and can usually be installed with basic tools. Locksmith companies will also provide lock changing services to residential customers. 

3. Replace the Spare Key 

Let’s be honest - that fake rock isn’t fooling anyone. Thieves are very familiar with the common places that spare keys are hidden around the exterior of a home. If possible, give a set of keys to a close friend or trusted family member. If you must stash a spare key outdoors, try to choose a place that only you have access to. 

4. Install Window Locks 

You might be surprised to discover just how many windows have locks of very poor quality – if they have any at all. Older homes are most at risk of these problems. Many different window lock styles are on the market; shop around to find some that suit the type of windows found in your home. You will be able to sleep much sounder knowing that sturdy, secure locks are present on every window. 

5. Install Motion Sensors on Exterior Lights 

Flood lights on garages, porches, and walkways flick on as you approach; this is a comforting welcome as you approach your home at night. Motion activated lights make us feel safer in the dark and help deter prowlers that might be lurking in the shadows. Strong lights with built-in motion sensors can be purchased at hardware and home improvement stores as well as many better department stores. They require very little maintenance, so you can count on yours operating reliably for many months. 

6. Be Careful on Social Media 

It’s understandable to want to tell others all about our upcoming vacation plans or even that we have a busy day full of errands, but posting our details all over social media is actually a security risk. Telling the world when you’re not at home is a sure-fire way to invite break-ins. Savvy burglars will figure out a potential victim’s social media profile, then carefully follow them to plan an attack. Stay vague on social media, don’t broadcast your plans, and be sure that check your privacy settings often. 

Staying Safe While Living Alone 

Living alone can offer lots of freedom and privacy, but this comes at the price of increased security. Every person who lives alone has to take security seriously, and be willing to make the changes necessary to stay safe. These six wireless alarm system tips are simple and budget-savvy ways of staying safe while living alone.