8 Emergency Safety Tips For Living Alone

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Human beings are social creatures – it’s in our DNA. Part of it has to do with mental health. We don’t feel as happy when we’re socially isolated. But another part of it is rooted in our survival. Hundreds of years ago, we had to live in packs in order to survive. Of course, today, we aren’t as worried about fighting off the elements or four-legged predators, so some people prefer living alone. In fact, 29 percent of U.S. households are one-person homes, says the U.S. Census.

For the most part, it’s safe to live alone. However, in the event of medical or other types of emergencies, living alone poses some risks. The CDC states that living alone increases the risk of premature death by all causes. This doesn’t mean that you have to give up your peaceful solo existence and take in a roommate. But, if you do live alone, there are important safety precautions to take to improve your chances in an emergency situation.

Wear A Medical Alert Device

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No matter your age, if you live alone, you could benefit from having a medical alert device. Most packages include a pendant that you wear, along with a wall button you install in your home.

In the event of a medical emergency, you might not be able to get to your phone in time, or be able to operate a phone. And if you live alone, there might not be someone else around to call for help. When you press the button on your medical pendant or wall, emergency authorities will be alerted to the fact that you need help at your location.

In a survey reported on Forbes, 86 percent of respondents who wear medical devices said their device has saved them at least once.

Use The Emergency Setting In Your Phone

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Most smartphones have an emergency setting that allows you to input information such as your emergency contacts and medical conditions. Make sure to update this in your phone. Most first responders know to look for this in a patient’s smartphone.

To make it very easy for first responders, you could write down your medical conditions, allergies and emergency contacts on a piece of paper, take a photo of that and make that your screensaver. EMS personnel will see this critical information the moment they pick up your phone and can access this information, even if you are unresponsive.

Use Smart Appliances

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Smart appliances can act as your second set of eyes and ears if you live alone. Things like smart coffee makers and ovens can be set to automatically shut off at certain times, if you fail to manually do so. This can reduce the risk of fires – especially when you don’t have someone else in the home double-checking these appliances.

You could also consider adding a smart water leak detector that will alert you if there is a leak in your home. Some of these systems automatically shut off the water in your home when abnormal moisture is detected to prevent further damage. Most notify your connected device of the issue, so you’ll be alerted, even if you’re away from home.

Get To Know Your Neighbors

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When you live alone, getting to know your neighbors is especially important. Find those you trust and exchange phone numbers so you can be in contact during an emergency. Additionally, let a neighbor you trust become familiar with your routine. That way, if they don’t see you leave for your daily morning walk or other routine activity, they will know to check on you.

Install A Security System

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It’s always a good idea to invest in a security system. It’s not only an investment in your safety, but may also increase the value of a home. Get a security system with cameras, a smart doorbell, alarms that activate when perimeters are crossed and motion sensor lights. Consider a system that automatically notifies authorities for you when it is activated.

Keep Emergency Numbers Visible

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Besides 911, there are several emergency numbers it is important to keep visible at all times. Some might include poison control, the power company, animal control, a locksmith and your local EMS. It’s best to find these numbers during a calm, ordinary day rather than during an emergency. Print them out, laminate them and post them somewhere you can easily find them.

Know Your Exit Strategies

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If you live in an apartment building, familiarize yourself with the layout. Know where every exit is. And, make an exit strategy for various emergency situations. For example, you could decide if someone broke into your front door, you would know how to escape out of your balcony. It’s also smart to take a stroll around your neighborhood and find different exit strategies for times you may need to further escape .

Get A Dog

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Intruders do not want to deal with watchful eyes, and most do not want to encounter the resident. Dogs that bark instantly draw attention, and burglars hate that. Consider getting a dog for safety. Even if you don’t want a large dog, research reported on CNET shows that dogs of any size are deterrents to intruders.