We at The Lisa Hartsink Team believe that our home should be a place of security and comfort, and that everyone deserves to have a safe retreat. As we mark Women’s Abuse Prevention Month, our goal is to provide practical advice for women to enhance their personal safety, in the home and out. From embracing smart technologies to enforcing simple habits, here are some suggestions to help improve your overall sense of security, and to provide a strategy for when you feel threatened.

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Home Security Systems

The recent rise of smart home security options has made the setup and installation of everything from surveillance cameras to motion sensors significantly more accessible. While the use of smart devices can be polarizing regarding their potential to expose personal data online, for some the risk may be outweighed by the sense of protection they provide. For those who feel that their space is at risk, having the ability to check in and monitor remotely can relieve a huge amount of stress. We suggest using smart home systems with caution and careful consideration for their placement and access. Doorbell cameras are a simple place to start, keeping the target as the exterior of the home in “common space”. If you’re uneasy, consider offline cameras that save data locally for later review.

Reinforcing Windows and Doors

Resilient doors and windows make up the first layer of defense against potential intruders. Exterior doors should always be solid, made of strong material such as metal or hardwood, and should be fixed with a secure lock. Deadbolts add an additional layer, potentially stalling or thwarting attempts to break-in. All windows accessible from the ground should have functioning locking mechanisms, and for an added layer of protection, fit upper story windows with locks as well, especially if accessible from balconies or rooflines. There is also the added shielding provided by shatterproof glass or security film, which helps to prevent intrusion.

Providing Illumination

A well-lit space on its own can serve as a natural deterrent to potential intruders. The incorporation of motion-activated lighting around your home’s perimeter, pathways, and entrances heightens both security and your sense of comfort when returning or leaving home while it’s dark. Options range from solar and battery to hardwired, and we recommend using a mix of both options to ensure you aren’t left in the dark should the power go out or the power drain.

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Neighbourhood Knowledge

Regardless of where you live, it’s important to be able to recognize potential threats, and know where to find safe haven if you need it. Knowing who your neighbours are means you’re more likely to notice someone new or out of place, and take the proper precautions. If you ever needed to flee your home, or seek refuge elsewhere, it’s valuable to know where there are safe places to go in an emergency. Perhaps there are emergency services in your area, busy community hubs like shopping malls or community centers where you can seek help, or you have a friend or family member who can provide shelter. Knowing where to go when your home isn’t safe and having a plan in place can help you feel calm and controlled in an emergency.

Empowering Yourself

If you often find yourself in situations or places where you feel your safety is compromised, consider carrying a tool such as pepper spray or personal alarms. Taking self-defense classes can improve your general feeling of security, armed with the knowledge to disarm, or disengage from someone trying to overtake you. Taking your personal defense in your own hands can empower you in threatening situations instead of feeling panicked.

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Building Safety Habits

By building habits that reinforce our safety, such as locking the door behind you every time you leave the house—even if you’re just going down the street to check the mail—prevents cracks in your carefully planned efforts. Always keep things like keys and self-defense tools at hand and remember to lock up by making a mental checklist to review each time you’re about to step out the door or go to bed at night. Another helpful habit is to always make sure at least two people know where you are through direct communication. Cultivate a network of trusted acquaintances, neighbours, and family members who can undertake periodic check-ins and share open lines of communication regarding your daily routines and whereabouts.

Ultimately, trust your instincts. If your intuition raises concerns or elicits discomfort, treat it seriously. Never hesitate to call the police, seek out a trusted safe haven, or defend yourself from impending threats. The creation of a secure space within your home, and having a plan in place for emergency situations, can make all the difference when needed. We at The Lisa Hartsink Team are always available to provide resources and support for those seeking a sense of security in their homes. If you or someone you know is feeling threatened in their home or experiencing domestic abuse, contact the Halton Women’s Place, 905-332-7892 or 905-878-8555, for immediate access to support and assistance.

If you have real estate questions, we’re always happy to help! Get in touch today by calling 905-873-9944, emailing info@lisahartsink.com, or fill out the form on this page!