Do you live alone?

The Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida finds nearly 22 percent of seniors, 65 and older live alone, putting them at risk for social isolation and other safety concerns. Maybe you’re not a senior, but are still living solo.

Living alone safely requires proactive habits: locking all doors/windows, using deadbolts, and installing smart cameras or video doorbells. It is important you build a safety network by getting to know your neighbors, establishing a check-in buddy, and avoiding sharing vacation plans on social media.

Secure your perimeter with motion-activated lights and never hide spare keys outside.

Home Security Basics

• Lock Up: Always lock doors and windows, even when home, and use deadbolts and chains.
• Lighting: Use motion-activated lights for entrances and keep the exterior well-lit.
• Secure Entry Points: Use dowels in sliding door tracks and reinforce doors with security bars or a type of secondary lock.
• Maintain Privacy: Keep blinds or curtains closed at night.
• Keys: Give spare keys or garage code to a trusted neighbor or family member, never hide them outside.

Smart Technology and Tools

• Cameras & Doorbells: Install video doorbells or security cameras to monitor entrances.
• Alarms: Use doorstop alarms or window alarms to deter intruders.
• Safety Apps: Use safety apps for daily check-ins.

Daily Habits and Preparedness

• Know Your Neighbors: Trusted neighbors can watch for suspicious activity.
• Trusted Check-in: Have a friend or family member know your daily schedule.
• Emergency Plan: Create an emergency exit plan and keep important contact numbers accessible.
• Maintenance Safety: Verify service workers’ credentials before letting them in. Another recommendation is to have a friend join you, if strangers are working in your home.
• Sound Confident: If someone knocks, make it known someone is there.
• Avoid Oversharing: No one needs to know you live alone, not your driver, service provider, or any other stranger.

Safety Outside the Home

• Situational Awareness: Stay alert and avoid looking at your phone while walking.
• Self-Defense: Consider taking a self-defense class to build confidence.
• Personal Safety Tools: Carry self-defense items or a personal alarm.

Every day, we find ourselves in all types of situations. We should always feel comfortable and safe. Do not hesitate to call for help. Ever. We are here for you.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office offers more than a dozen free crime prevention programs, discussing best practices for safety and security. To schedule one for your community, business, organization or house of worship, please call (239) 477-1CRU (1278) or email us at CRU@sheriffleefl.org.