Home and Abroad: Ways To Feel Safe and Secure.
Most of the time we take people at face value, and they turn out to be lovely. However, there are a fair few nasty ones out there too. And some will think nothing of breaking into your home, stealing money while you are travelling and hacking your online accounts. While constantly being cynical about others is unhealthy, it does pay to put a few safety measures into place, just in case. Put some of these security measures into practice and you’ll have greater peace of mind.
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Stay Safe While Travelling Abroad
Going on adventure always brings excitement. You want to explore, relax and take in all the new sights and sounds. But no matter where you go, there will always be those that prey on tourists. It’s better to blend in than stand out. So leave those Hawaiian shirts, fold out maps and cameras slung around your neck at home. Use your phone for loading maps and routes and even for taking photos. If you have a very expensive phone, consider switching out your SIM card to an older model that still has a camera. Do the same with your watch and jeweler. Make sure to scan your passport, medical card and driver’s license and e mail them to yourself. Also separate your cash and credit cards to three different sources – a wallet, your hotel safe and a money belt. A money belt is a great travel accessory that can be strapped around your waist and under your clothes. Depending on your destination, there can be many street scams and hustles that take place in high volume tourist areas. Hustlers often work in groups and aim to distract you while they steal. If you feel that anyone is trying to distract you, immediately place your hands on your belongings and move away. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and if you travel alone, always let someone know your plans for each day.
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Safety and Security At Home
There are lots of things you can do to boost the security in your home. Statistics in the US state that a burglary is committed every 15 seconds. Protect your home by installing a state-of-the-art home security system. Technology today enables security systems to use motion detectors on all doors and windows. They can also include surveillance cameras and smartphone monitoring for while you are away. We’re not saying you need to install a bulletproof garage or panic room, but it’s worth looking into the latest gadgetry when investing in a new alarm system. Also, make sure you have enhanced security locks on all your windows and doors. In the garden consider putting in a chain link fence. These can be installed around your back and front gardens and are a good burglar deterrent. Due to their almost invisibility, you have maximum visibility of what is going on outside, and they also make it more difficult to climb over. If you have a swimming pool, chain link fences are a great safety feature to keep children out too. Finally, for extra safety and security at home, make sure to get to know your neighbours. The more elusive you are, the less you will be looked out for. The friendlier you are, the more people tend to care. And if you can all create a Neighbourhood Watch Team as well, even better.
