Living on your own—whether it’s your first house or apartment—is one of the most liberating experiences in life! But as empowering as it is, living alone can also make you a prime target for burglars, especially when winter rolls around.

Longer, darker nights create the perfect opportunity for unwanted visitors. In fact, studies show that homes are 50% more likely to be broken into during the colder months. So, as cozy as the season feels, it’s also the perfect time to double down on your home security.

Today, we are going to discuss the most common mistakes that could put you at risk and share with you proactive steps for a winter free from unnecessary stress, financial loss, and personal danger.

You’re Trying to Save On Bills by Keeping the Lights Off

Winter bills are no joke, but sitting in the dark to save a few bucks is both impractical and borderline unsafe. Instead, keep your lights on, even when you aren’t home.

Why? Because nothing screams “easy target” like a poorly lit house. Burglars love that!

If you’re worried about running up the electric bill while you’re out late, then invest in light timers. These handy devices can turn on your lights on cue when it gets dark, creating the perfect illusion that you’re home.

Equally important, inspect your exterior lighting, everything from the patio to the driveway. Make sure every bulb works fine or determine if something needs an upgrade.

Winter’s early darkness gives burglars extra confidence, but a well-lit perimeter will help you put a stop to their shadowy plans.

You Don’t Secure Your Doors

Thirty-four percent of burglars gain access through the front door, and another 22% enter through a back door, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.

Surprisingly, 25% of homeowners leave their doors unlocked, making their homes easy targets for burglary. You don’t want to be part of those statistics, do you?

To secure your home, you’ll want to invest in strong, reliable doors. Opt for steel or solid-core wood doors, as hollow-core doors are far easier to break.

Additionally, reinforce these doors with high-quality deadbolt locks. While chain locks can provide additional security, they are not a substitute for a hardy deadbolt.

And if your door includes glass panes, ensure they are positioned far from the lock. Otherwise, a burglar could simply smash the glass and unlock the door from the inside.

For renters, additional considerations may apply. I suggest you review your lease agreement to determine what modifications are permitted and whether you need prior approval from your landlord.

Be prepared to discuss the type of door you’d like to install, ensuring it complements the property’s style. Likewise, clarify who will cover the costs of the door and installation.

Approach your landlord if your current doors show signs of damage, such as rotting, cracks, or warping. Highlight how these issues compromise both security and the property’s overall condition. In most cases, landlords will be willing to address these problems to protect their investment.

You Leave Your Keys in Obvious Locations

Do people still hide their keys under the doormat or in a flowerpot? I seriously hope you don’t! Otherwise, you might as well just hand over your keys with a note saying, “Welcome!”

Your best bet? A lockbox. You can tuck it in a discreet area.

While you can hide your keys inside a fake object that blends with its surroundings, but I can’t promise you that it won’t get lost in the snow. Better yet, skip the hiding altogether and hand a spare key to a trusty neighbor. Just make sure they are really dependable!

You Always Forget to Lock the Windows

Don’t forget to lock your windows! Twenty-three percent of break-ins are due to people forgetting to do so. Burglars target the least obvious entry points because they’re all about getting in and out as fast as Barry Allen.

If you’re a homeowner, it’s worth investing in sturdy windows, like laminated or argon glass. Even locked windows can be vulnerable since they’re easy to break.

Additionally, consider adding security sensors to alert you if someone tries to tamper with your windows. You can have them professionally installed or go the DIY route.

Don’t let your guard down either if you live in an apartment. Burglars can be just as sneaky there, too! You may enhance your security by adding technology.

A smart window sensor discreetly monitors your windows, providing an extra layer of protection. If it detects an attempted break-in, you’ll instantly receive a notification to keep you informed and in control of the situation.

You Don’t Check Your Garage

If you’ve got a door connecting your garage to the house, don’t just give it a casual glance. Treat it with the same level of security as your front door because…suprise! That’s actually a pretty prime entry point.

Garages are great for storage, but they’re also a gold mine for burglars. And if you’ve got tools in there, you’re not just at risk of losing your stuff; you’re handing burglars the perfect tools to break into your home.

So, unless you’re secretly hoping to donate your tools to the local thief, it’s time to rethink your garage security and add a few more precautions. You know, just to make sure the only thing you’re giving away is your unwanted clutter—not your entire garage.

You’re Puffing Your Car Each Morning

Did you know car thefts are more rampant during the winter months? Since 2023, over a million cars across the U.S. have been stolen by opportunistic thieves.

That’s why the National Insurance Crime Bureau strongly advises against leaving your vehicle unattended while it warms up, even if it’s parked in the perceived safety of your driveway or garage. It only takes a few seconds for someone to jump into your puffing car and drive away.

So, stay inside your locked vehicle and brush up on your winter self-defense skills to prepare for any risky encounters. Keep all valuables out of sight. Even something as small as a purse or a pair of AirPods can tempt criminals. For extra protection, consider using anti-theft tools, such as a catalytic converter lock or steering wheel lock.

You’re Giving Burglars Opportunities to Hide

While you're at it, take a quick stroll around your property and check for any potential hiding spots for burglars. Overgrown bushes, big garden furniture, or even that old shed in the back corner—they all provide perfect cover. These are the ideal places to install sensor lights that’ll flash on the second anyone decides to sneak around. Better to catch them before they make a move!

You Don’t Invest in a Home Security System

Investing in a home security system during the winter months isn’t just a good idea—it’s a must. As the days get shorter and darkness takes over early in the evening, burglars find it easier to operate under the cover of night.

Without a security system, your home is essentially a sitting duck. A comprehensive system with cameras, motion sensors, and alarms provides an extra layer of protection when you need it most. 

Whether you're home or away, these systems can alert you to any suspicious activity, giving you peace of mind when the cold weather is more likely to lure thieves to your doorstep.

You Advertise Your Absence

I know solo traveling is exciting, but posting about it on social media is like handing out an invite to your housewarming party—except the "guests" are burglars. Keep your travel plans on the downlow until you’re back, or you might come home to an unpleasant surprise. Enjoy your vacation without worrying if your stuff’s still there!

Conclusion

Securing your home during the winter months is essential for every independent woman living solo. By making small, proactive changes—like enhancing your lighting, reinforcing your doors, hiding your keys in clever spots, and always locking your windows—you can significantly reduce the risk of unwanted visitors. 

Remember, even the simplest security measures can make a big difference, and they don’t have to break the bank! Taking these steps can help create a cozier atmosphere where you can fully enjoy this beautiful season.

If you found these tips helpful, feel free to share this article with friends and loved ones. Let's look out for each other and spread the word about staying safe!