6 Essential Safety Tips For Women Living Alone

Jasmine Damkewala said, “Living alone as a woman in India can be empowering, but it also comes with unique safety concerns. However, with awareness and proactive measures, women can minimise risks and live confidently.”

6 Essential Safety Tips For Women Living Alone In India

Here are a few essential safety tips for women living alone in India.

Secure Your Home

If you are living in an apartment, don’t rely on the owner's provided infrastructure. Invest in sturdy doors, locks, and grills. Consider installing a smart door lock with biometric authentication or a digital lock with a password. Additionally, ensure windows are securely barred, and consider installing safety film to prevent shattering.

For instance, when moving into a new home, make sure to change the locks and ensure that spare keys are not lying around in a way that someone could have easy access to them. Smart devices such as security cameras and doorbell cams can provide you with a clear view of your house at all times as well as notify you if anyone is seen idling around your front door or examining the lock. Such devices can also be programmed to inform an emergency contact as well as yourself in the event of a security breach. Lastly, the presence of a dog in the home is considered by many to be the best security measure.

Stay Connected And Informed

Keep your family and friends in the loop every time you step out of your house or someone comes to meet you. Share your address and contact details with trusted neighbours, friends, and family. Keep emergency numbers handy, including the local police station (100), National Commission for Women (NCW) Helpline: 011-23237166 and women's helpline (181). Download safety apps like Safetipin, bSafe, or VithU. Furthermore, if possible build a good equation with your neighbours, so that you call call them for help. After such horrific incidents, several localwomen's safetygroups came into existence. Try connecting with local women's groups, join online forums, or participate in community initiatives.

Be Mindful Of Your Surroundings

You might have heard of a popular quote that read, “We betray our own people, otherwise others don't know what hurts us.” No matter how safe your society seems, you should be mindful of your surroundings. Familiarise yourself with your neighbourhood, noting safe and unsafe areas. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night. Use public transport or ride-sharing services with verified drivers.

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Do Not Tell Strangers That You Live Alone

Ladies, always remember not to let anyone know that you are living alone or you are new to someplace. Women should be cautious to not tell individuals they do not know, such as taxi drivers or delivery persons that they live alone, as this could make them appear an easy target.

Be Careful On Social Media

The constant social media posts about life may pose a threat to safety. So, be cautious not to mention to people on social media that you live alone. Furthermore, be careful to not provide people on the internet with any personal details such as location or address.

Develop Self-Defense Skills

It's the society's responsibility to keep women protected but till that happens fully, learning a few life saving skills might help in dangerous situations. Enrol in self-defence classes to learn effective techniques. Carry a personal alarm or pepper spray as a deterrent. Stay physically fit and confident to deter potential threats.

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Living alone as a woman in India can be a daunting, and often risky. One needs to be vigilant, mindful, and learn proactive measures to tread the path independently. Remember, safety is a collective responsibility – let's work together to create a secure environment for all.

Image Courtsey: Freepik