What You Can Do to Feel More Secure After Leaving an Abusive Relationship
- EMERGENCY LOCKSMITH
SERVICESDo You Need a Locksmith in the Bay Area Right Now?
Life is never the same after escaping domestic abuse. The physical and emotional scars are hard to heal and reclaiming a sense of security can feel daunting. However, regaining a sense of control and safety is not impossible.
Here at Lockworks Unlimited, Inc. we are all about helping individuals find the safety they need. To help, we have gathered a few expert tips as well as listed some security options that may help you recover from an abusive relationship.
1. Create a Safety Plan
Experts recommend creating a safety plan to help you take the right steps to protect yourself. These plans can include steps such as:
- Moving
- Changing your phone number
- Closing you Social Media Accounts
- Renting a post office box
- Changing your children’s schools
- Asking neighbors to keep an eye out for certain/suspicious individuals
A domestic violence advocate can help you with these plans, so do not be afraid to reach out to organizations such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
2. Secure Your Home
Every abusive relationship is different and requires a unique response. Whether that means you had to move or stay where you are, you can make that home more secure.
Install Deadbolt Locks on All Doors and Windows
One of the best ways to improve your sense of security is to install extra locks on all of your doors and windows. Deadbolt locks feature heavy-duty designs meant to provide the extra protection and security that standard door locks cannot. You can install deadbolts on both windows and doors, and you can secure them with a knob, turn bolt, or an external key.
For added security, your deadbolt and main door lock should have different keys. Obtaining a copy of both your main door lock key and deadbolt key can be difficult, making it harder for an intruder to gain access to your home.
Consider Security Chains as an Added Safeguard
In addition to deadbolt locks, you can further fasten your doors with security chains. These security chains prevent a door from fully opening if someone has breached the other locks.
While security chains are not infallible, they may delay an intruder who is trying to enter your home. An intruder would also make a great deal of noise trying to break the chain lock. This will give you ample time to call 9-1-1 or exit your home using another door or window.
Install a Full Security System
Of course, when you are recovering from an abusive relationship, you may need more than locks to feel secure. Consider contacting a security company to install a full security system in your home.
There are many types of security systems to choose for your home. You can choose a system with access control measures like a keypad, fingerprint reader or voice access control. These features provide another layer of control over who accesses your home and when.
You can also opt for a fully integrated security system with home security cameras and a coded security alarm system. The best part about full security system integration is that you can connect to it from anywhere with your smartphone or tablet. This feature allows you to know what is going on in your home at all times.
Working with a security company to set up a fully integrated system can give you the practical security you need. When you combine a security system with deadbolts, security chains and other measures, you can feel even safer in your home. This blanket of safety can help you to cope with psychological issues as you recover and rebuild your life
3. Create a Safe Space
Part of recovery is creating new positive memories to help you recover. Is there a hobby you enjoy? Perhaps crafting or building things in a workshop would help. Enjoy cooking or decorating? Make the kitchen your sanctuary or chose a room to makeover. Finding positive experiences to enjoy is a great way to gain independence from your struggles. Once you have secured your home, focus on creating the positive memories that will help you heal.
The issues caused by domestic violence affect everyone. One in three women and one in four men have experienced physical abuse in a relationship. If you need help, please contact the authorities. If you need help securing your home from an abuser, you can trust our locksmiths to put your safety first.
- Categories:
