apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

A dog is the best thing. Motion sensitive lights front and back would be helpful, as would thorny shrubs beneath windows.

Get a dog.

Confidence/strength/fighting skills-building. Martial arts classes.

I think exploring every gadget for detection of intruders is important, but don't negate building reliance on your own abilities to defend and protect yourself.

Also good to start toning down on the over-active freaked-out imagination.

However, you're brave and good luck to you! I often think about the advantages of the big "dangerous" city as a single gal living in my apt. Hence, I think about martial arts classes and other confidence-building techniques.

Oh yeah, of course ... a dog ... since you have a cottage w a back yard. duh.

I would plant some deterrent type bushes around all the windows, like thorny but pretty pyracanthas.

X10 equipment is relatively cheap. They sell plenty of stuff for home security including cameras, motion detectors, window sensors, etc.

Check out:
http:\\www.X10.com
http:\\www.Smarthome.com

yikes, a motel, lots of transient peeps with that kind of arrangement. hmm

ok first things first,

cut back that bush to be less able to hide several people... you do not want that at all!!! maybe even move it further away from the door after trimming it back as well.

get this sweet large screen front door viewer that allows for "arms length" viewing
http://www.technologylk.com/product_view.aspx?&source_ID=froogle&product_ID=7069

maybe a panic alarm sound/lights if things get creepy and real.

deadbolts of course

definitely change locks... never know who has keys to the old ones

i don't know, you don't want to feel like a victim, but these are typical kinds of things to think about.

get trained in handgun use and buy one perhaps (i hate this idea, but if someone is trying to get in by force, it is an endgame solution)

How would your cats feel about getting a canine sibling? Dogs are the best security system.

Motion-sensor lights are great for the exterior corners, though if you're not looking to hire an electrician, you might just want to get some solar lighting from Target so you can see what's going on in your yards at night.

Motion sensitive lights are a must. If the bushes around the windows are too dense/thick, they actually make it easier for someone to break in while they hide in the bushes.

Double check your basement windows if you have them. When we had our system installed, they said most break-ins happen via basement windows.

An ADT system actually pays for itself over a couple years of reduced homeowner insurance and it has a hardwired fire/smoke alarm, which for me is a necessity since we have a dog. Police and fire are immediately called.

Also, don't dance naked in front of the windows at night.

Appended to my previous comment.

X10 equipment is often sold in kits that they have massive specials on. It is wireless technology so there is no need to get into your home wiring to run it. It is geared towards self install.

i live alone as well with 2 dogs and 2 cats. even though they're small (and relatively quiet), the pups are pretty good about barking when something's up; my bf surprised me one morning while i was still in bed and when they heard the door being messed with ,they jumped off the bed barking, and ran to the door.

oh, i also keep a baseball bat by the side of my bed, just in case. :)

motion sensor light would be a GREAT idea. also check on these door jam things that you stick under the doorknob from the inside, you can't open the door from the outside once they're in place.

it is scary at first being by yourself, but if you take some small precautions, you'll be fine. :) good luck!

Get a big barky dog. Clear back the brush. Most important: make friends with your neighbors.

Motion detectors will drive you crazy if the area has a lot of deer, but better safe than sorry. Also, I've found that NRA stickers on your car and front door deter a certain amount of mischief, even if you don't actually own a gun.

I love the sticker idea!

I live in a slightly sketchy urban neighborhood. When I had my ADT system put in, I had them install smart window screens (the kind that keep insects out). These screens contain special magnets and filaments so that, if someone cuts the screen or tries to pull it out of the frame, the alarm goes off and the police are called.

I liked this option because, unlike the indoor 'zone' motion sensors, the alarm goes off BEFORE the bad guys are in the house. Also, I can keep my windows open while walking around the house w/o worrying.

thank you for all the suggestions; unfortunately a dog is out of the question. Any links to motion sensors/lights/etc are greatly appreciated!
So far I'm planning on getting motion detector lights, trimming the bush in front of the house, and getting tools to block the door from the inside. Thank you! More suggestions very welcome!

Not to make light of your situation, but perhaps this book may help dispell some of your worries as well. http://www.amazon.com/Culture-Fear-Americans-Afraid-Things/dp/0465014909/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213215541&sr=1-3

I have to agree with the dog remarks. Even if the dog is small, it can alert you as to someone outside your house. And getting to know your neighbors is a great idea too. A lot of my neighbors are naturally nosy and we all look out for each other.

I'd also suggest getting a security system which offers the option of having a panic button on a keychain. I know some companies offer such a thing which automatically alerts the police and doesn't go through the whole call-you-then-ask-for-your-password process. This would be helpful not only while you're entering the house, but you could sleep with it on your nightstand.

And if you notice something suspicious outside your house, don't hesitate to call 911. I once fumbled around in the dark with a flashlight at 3 in the morning trying to find the number to my local police station to ask for a drive by because there was a running car with its lights off that I didn't recognize parked directly outside my house. The officer told me that I should just call 911 next time because that sort of thing is considered an emergency situation. You may want to verify this with your local station too, but it could prove useful. I just hesitated to call 911 initially because I felt self conscious about potentially overreacting.

I would advise against relying on mace or pepper spray though - a friend accidentally sprayed herself in the face while sleeping with a can under her pillow. I know, stupid mistake, but it happens!

I used to live in middle-of-nowhere Montana, and believe me, lots more crime in the big city than middle of nowhere places! Get a dog if you love them, put the stickers on if it makes you feel better, but for the most part just be happy with where you are. Use this site to help make your place great--the more comfortable, cozy, & at home you feel, the more confident you'll be, and the less likely you'll be scared about the whole thing!

That said, motion detector lights are just plain good energy savers, so go for those, too.

as a denizen of rural virginia who moved here from boston several years ago, i must say that it took me a loooooong time to lose my urban paranoia! nonetheless, you are in for a big treat and i hope you can find the right combination of devices to make you feel at home as quickly as possible!

After a terrifying break-in while I was home, I did the following:

Alarm system (I know, not cheap, but it might be worth buying some fake alarm signs/stickers online)

Drilled bolts into window frames so they can only open a couple of inches

Heavy duty screen door instead of security door

Exchanged phone numbers with all neighbors

Started sleeping with cell phone within reach (I know, duh)

Added motion sensor lights in front and back of house

Cut back any shrubs from the house (don't leave anywhere for someone to hide)

Added non-see-through curtains (I don't know if this helps, but it made me feel better)

Good luck and I hope you enjoy your new place.

Sometimes the facts can help ease your mind. Check the crime rates for your area. Of course this doesn't guarantee that something won't happen but it might make you feel better to know that you live in a safe place. Every now and then I scan the police reports for my area in the newspaper and there's not too much going on. Also, you should run by the local police department. Let them know you're new to the area and that you're living behind the hotel. Whoever is assigned to that area can keep an eye out for you. Good luck!

One cheap option if you don't want to do the entire alarm thing. Depending on how your windows open get something to block them. My windows slide and I had lengths of thick dowl cut, two lengths for each window and for the sliding door, so I can block completely closed or a little open for ventilation. Cheap solution but it works.

Lots of great suggestion here! I have to agree with the motion sensor lights - great idea to be able to see what's going on out there - but beware if you set them too sensitive, the wind or leaves blowing can set them off - causing undo grief!

Also some strategically placed thorny plants (barberry, roses, etc) around your windows is a great idea. The best part is they look great and can be pretty cheap if you start small. Actually it's better if they start out small - then you can keep them in check so they don't create hiding space...

One other suggestion is I had a little security box in college that had a pin. If the pin was pulled out (it was on a leash you could wrap around your hand and the box attaches to your purse, bag etc) it would let out a deafening scream that can be heard for a VERY long way. (I took some night classes and had to walk back the dorms...) Might be useful since you are in an area where there are other people around.

Good luck and congrats on the new place!

:)

I moved from San Francisco to very rural Sonoma County in 1991 (moved back in 1999). It took quite a while to get used to the quiet and the feeling of vulnerability. Motion detector lights are great, but remember to set them fairly high so that feral/wild animals don't set them off and increase your paranoia. Having a land-line for access to 911 in case you can't speak is important in case of emergency (choking, for example).

This helped me a lot: most crime is opportunistic. Criminals don't go out to hard-to-reach locales looking for opportunity due to lower population density, dogs, riflles, etc. That and if the cops get called, it's much harder to hide among fewer people.

So, rest comfortably knowing that if someone is going to break into your home in the country, you've been identfied as a specific target, not just a convenient opportunity. In which case, nothing you do will prevent someone truly dedicated to invading your home from doing so (this is true where ever you live).

Once I understood that the risk of home invasion actually went down when I moved out of the city, I relaxed about the whole thing and let myself enjoy the sounds of night-time. Treefrogs. Crickets. Wind.

Enjoy!

Locking your doors and not opening the door for strangers are good ideas, but we're talking about rural Virginia here-- you should be more concerned about getting to know the local flora and fauna (poison ivy, yellow jackets, and coyotes come to mind), especially if you haven't spent time in the country. But eventually you'll probably find that you sleep much more soundly away from the city :)

There's a good chance that motion detectors will be going off and scaring you all night. Critters come and go and roam about. It's what they do. So you don't put out water or food. You secure your trash. You keep the kitties INDOORS at night, ALWAYS.

Realize that some animals eat cat poop. Really. So if the cats are pooping outside, you might have something coming around later to eat it. The canine family is particularly well-known for eating poop.

There probably will be owls, and they will look for scampering tiny critters to swoop on. That might also set off the motion detecting light.

Rather than putting in flood lights that will go off if a mouse comes within 50 yards of your place, some low-light garden lights would be nice. They LOOK more decorative, and yet a well-lighted place is NOT a place people can loiter about without being noticed.

Browse some of the landscape lighting sites, like these:
http://www.landscapelightingshop.com/path-lighting/6070 6072.cfm
http://www.sunriselights.com/outdoor.html
http://www.affordablequalitylighting.com/outdoor.html

That last place ships from Japan. Yikes. But check this out:
http://www.affordablequalitylighting.com/docs/outdoor/solar/rsc-100/index.html

They are wireless, solar, in-ground lights. You can put them in pots, planters. Making the light look decorative, rather than security, will help. It's like a psychological deterrent, establishes territory, YOUR territory, without peeing on the bushes or running concertina wire around your new cottage.

That territory or boundary doesn't have to be a stone wall, planting flowers, running this kind of solar string lights along the flower bed:
http://www.improvementscatalog.com/home/improvements/792912293-solar-eclips-light-string.html

Lots of links on this page:
http://www.flowerpotheaven.com/outdoor-solar-landscape-lighting.htm

------

Forget weapons and bats, unless you are trained to use them. As they can quickly be taken from you and used on you. That's not to scare you, it's just a fact.

Other folks have mentioned martial arts. Even strength training, weight lifting, aerobics, anything that you can do for your body to be stronger and more agile is of use.

I really enjoyed this news story from awhile back:
http://prairiepundit.blogspot.com/2008/01/woman-catches-burglar-in-act-and-then.html

======
A would-be burglar met his match when he tried to elude Margo Foster, a marathon runner with a black belt in karate who also knows kickboxing and kung fu, police said.

On Friday morning, the 53-year-old Lighthouse Point resident returned home from tennis practice to find an intruder rummaging through her bedroom.

Without thinking twice, she said in an interview, she bolted through the living and dining rooms and followed the startled man out to the backyard. Police said he had one of Foster's backpacks strapped on his shoulders, filled with her property. She wanted it back.

A seven-block-long chase had just begun. Lighthouse Point police corroborated Foster's version of events, and without endorsing her gutsy conduct, said she had evidently been up to the challenge.

...

As related by Foster, the intruder began to climb the 6-foot-high wooden fence in the yard, when she "grabbed him by the neck, ripped him off the fence.. threw him to the ground, and put my knee to his chest."

The two struggled for a few minutes, Foster in her white tennis skirt, before the burglar dropped the bag and started running again.

"Go ahead and run," the former yacht detailer said she yelled. "You're not going to get away from me. I've been running for 40 years."

Police said the burglar headed north on Lighthouse Drive into the city of Deerfield Beach and then turned right on Southeast 14th Street, before he got tired and started walking. Foster followed behind and flagged down a motorist, who called police.

"I outran the kid," said Foster. "He had no cardiovascular system."
======

Don't get a dog if you're not a dog person. I love my dog, but it's a huge responsibility and time commitment.

I think Mrs. Jones' and TannerAdair's suggestions are fantastic. If you really feel that uncomfortable, perhaps look at other places to live closer in to town, but I bet you'll settle in and get used to the peace and quiet really soon. I grew up in the country and now live in the city, and seriously, almost all cities are waaaay more dangerous than a nice lil' forest!

Get to know your neighbors, make some local friends, go ahead with the motion lights (they'll be helpful in general, not just for warding off zombies), don't watch '70s horror movies, put in a nice garden, bake some cookies, etc.

if you're that scared, you shouldn't be living there. why have that kind of stress?

P.S. Case in point. When we moved back to the city, we were robbed within the year by our neighbor's "friend." We left the inlaw-apt cum work-studio door unlocked while we went upstairs to have dinner. During dinner, the "friend" walked out of the neighbor's house, opened the studio door, grabbed a $2K road bike, and took off down the street.

Opportunity doesn't always knock. ;-)

I would remove/move that large bush in front of the house..I watched a program on this very subject recently and that was a big no-no because someone can hide there and have coverage if they try to enter through a windown. You can have it moved to another area of your yard, away from houses and windows. Also consider some solar powered path lights that lead up to the house as well as motion sensors. I also see some bushes/trees touching the side of the house, you may want to have those trimmed. There are also some tips on this site which may be helpful... as a thought, you could call your local police station or find a security agency in your area and ask what their advice would be. I am sure there are consultants who would come to your home.

http://www.wiredsafety.org/wired_women/gb/personal_safety.html

Don't freak though, you will be okay. Common sense and some general basic safety tweaks to your home should make living alone less scary. Good luck.

I agree with those who recommended ADT. When I moved into my own place, I didn't think I needed one, but my dad thought I did so he had one installed whether I liked it or not, haha! But it does help me feel safer.

But the best suggestion I can give you is to always be prepared. For example, when you're getting out of your car to go into the house, gather your things and get your keys ready in your hand BEFORE you unlock and open the car door. Someone showed me the little trick where you slip your keys through your fingers so you look like Wolverine and can hurt would-be attackers that way. I only do that if I'm REALLY paranoid, but it's better either way to just have your key ready to open your door so you don't stand there for five minutes either rooting through your purse or gathering your bags and giving someone lurking in the woods time to jump you. Be confident and quick in your movements.

Also, get yourself a corded phone, so if the power goes out, the phone still works. Cos cell phone batteries can still go dead if the power is out long enough!

If the house creaks and freaks you out, turn on music or the TV or audio/video on your computer, just to have some company other than the purring cats. :)

Hope that helps! GOOD LUCK! :)

Karen-- here is the link to what i was referring! :) and only $14.99

http://www.smarthome.com/79916.html

i grew up in the country and isolated area, and never once felt scared (of humans) and didn't realize I think that there was any cause to be. Never had any it wasn't until i moved to the city (nyc) that I started actually fearing other people.

i think suggestions on secure locks, trim bushes, etc make sense, but motion dectors are overkill to me and will get every raccoon, etc. and make you crazy.

this may sounds weird, but agree w/ the comment on the NRA sticker being a deterrant. i heard someone say once when camping in the woods alone, put up a POW/MIA flag and no one will bother you.... you never know, wouldn't hurt.

forgive me, but I don't really understand the comfort derived from motion-sensor lights...when triggered, it tricks no one into believing someone turned it on and so probably wouldn't discourage someone set on breaking in. Yes, it could draw attention to that situation...if it was not going off constantly to the point that most people begin ignoring them. Plus, I find the constant on/off irritating to those living with it (especially if it is near a bedroom window!).

SO, I take more comfort in good landscape lighting that distributes light to all areas near your home so at any time you can see what is going on. Then I KNOW no one is lurking anywhere. It serves double-duty to enhance the appeal of your home (unlike the motion sensor lighting). I like the use of solar lights (for energy purposes) as well as having some exterior lighting on switches.

Trim back any bushes that offer a hiding place, make sure your windows all lock properly, switch your locksets, including your deadbolt, and always lock your doors when you are home or otherwise! Window treatments also make me feel safer, especially towards the street. I don't want to feel like someone is watching me. I had a security system installed in my home- it is worth the cost, especially considering it helps your insurance costs.

Enjoy the country- it is where my heart will always be!

I always felt safer in the country, near the woods, than in the city. Seriously, creepies are more likely found in the city than out in the middle of nowhere. Hiding in the woods all day would get pretty boring. And besides...woods are never really that dense...you can see right through them!

So many good suggestions here. I think you've got the right idea in making some security decisions (that make sense for you) as you move so you can relax and enjoy your new home.

I have to disagree though with one tip from brittanykate.

Along with the cell phone that you'd have anyway, it's also a really good idea to have a regular corded plug in the wall phone next to your bed. They work if the power goes out and, for a little piece of mind, it's easier for 911 to find you if you call them on a corded phone rather than a cell.

The dowel trick for blocking double-hung windows is a classic, although for it to work, the upper sash has to be fixed or locked in place--otherwise, it can just be pulled down, thus defeating the whole setup. At any rate, don't rely on those little toggles that rotate to fix the window closed. You can open those from the outside with a butter knife.

The other cheap and easy option for windows if you have wood sashes is to drill them--basically, you just drill a hole all the way through the side of the sash and into the frame, then put in a metal pin (old hinge pins work pretty well) to prevent the window from being moved. This is also a good trick if you have old counterweight windows where the counter weight has stopped working. You can have one pin location for 'closed' and one for 'open'. Make sure the pin fits tightly in the hole so that you can jiggle it out by rattling the window though.

Definitely also pay attention to the locks on your doors; you want at minimum a deadbolt on each door (with the motel next door, it would be better to have a nice solid deadbolt instead of just a lockable latch bolt). If you're not sure what you have, take a look at where the place to put your key is located on the outside--if the key goes into the knob, you have a latch bolt; if it goes into a little round piece above or below the knob, you have a deadbolt.

You also want a viewer on each door so that you can see who is outside before you open up, although I don't think the huge one suggested above is necessary. You can get a regular one at any hardware store.

Change the cylinder in all existing exterior locks, and put some in that have a decent number of pins, 7 if possible--your locksmith will know what the heck that means. You can get all doors keyed alike, meaning the all unlock with the same key, so that you can get in any door quickly if you need to.

Otherwise, it's pretty much just about remembering to lock up. Once you get settled in feel sure that you'll get more comfortable...but if you can, maybe the best way to tackle the first few nights would be to have a friend come stay with you. That way you have a chance to get to know all the night sounds and things before you stay alone.

Guinea hens -- Guinea hens also control ticks, so they say. http://www.lymediseasepa.com/GuineaHens.htm

or a nice donkey. It will carry your bags, too. Actually, since the little creatures get lonely, you will have to get a pair. http://www.wildwestminiaturedonkeys.com/

Even better than a donkey (or a pair of them) is a flock of geese.
http://ph.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080527071117AAEL7W7

Seriously, I do think you should get rid of the bush in front of the window -- this is as much to prevent burglary when you are not there as anything. Making a small fenced off yard around the house -- especially the front -- with a clearly designated path to the doors, front and back --- would function as psychological barrier, because it makes the house look cared for and inhabited. Window boxes are another nice idea.


Also, do get to know your neighbors.

You live in VA - hello! Get a gun - I never the house without mine. Conceal and carry, baby - it's the law here!

(Okay - I really don't own a gun - but, as an Alexandria, VA resident, I do know that the law permits it).

I suggest ADT and flood the exterior of your house with lighting. This seemed to work when I lived in Columbia Heights.

moat. alligators. it's warm in virginia.

It's rural Virginia - not the Bronx.

Unlike the cities, folks tend to look after one another in the country, so make friends with your neighbors. You're probably not even going to have to lock your door at night.

I have lived in the country forever... I know... why would I love AT?... but I do!

-Lights on from sundown at front and back door, always.
-Cut the bush to below waist high.
-Sturdy screen/storm doors with locks
-Window pins or locks to secure these
-secure screens if you

Okay, loose the bush. You may want to consider investing in a "katy bar the door" if you're really concerned ... http://www.securityproductsinc.com/products/Katy.htm
But frankly, that would make me feel like I'm in prison. Keep pepperspray by all your entrances and by your bed. Above all, get to know your neighbors.

This idea has helped my widowed, elderly aunts -- in the back of the car by the rearwindow, toss a man's beat up baseball cap. Add a few other manly accoutraments (huntin' gear anyone?) to make it look as if a man also inhabits your house. You don't need to advertise that there's a single woman in the house.

psycho computer today:
-secure screens if you leave windows open
-enjoy deer/raccoon/critter sightings at night or early morning
-be Friendly with neighbors and locals
-down shift to a country lifestyle its very different from city life
Enjoy your new adventure

As a woman who lives alone, I find all of the hypersensitivity a bit disconcerting.

Something that hasn't been mentioned yet is always leaving a light on when you aren't home after sunset. Break-ins usually happen in buildings that are visibly unoccupied, and leaving a light (with shut blindfolds/curtains) might deter that.

I live in the heart of a major city, so my building is required to have bars on the windows. If you want to go the extreme route, that's always an option.

I live in Virginia and have lots of friends male & female who live alone like that. First, what part of Virginia; (I know you can't disclose that), but where you are in the country is real important.

Get an old car (antique plate material...cheap in VA)and leave it visibly & strategically parked (& locked-up) so that when you look out your window any other car will be obvious and importantly, can't get close to your house!
Your neighbors can spot a strange vehicle better as will you.

Tiny wood house....always keep it secured when your out but super easy to break into (crowbar to the door frame, expensive lock go bye-bye).

Don't let folks know too much about exactly where and how you live; most country break-ins are done by casual acquaintances; (weirdo neighbors, the odd handyman, "Friends of Friends"). Make sure only very reliable people know how you live; like your boss, church members or other female friends; folks who will be concerned if they don't hear from you.

Order lots of stuff to be delivered...it's good for UPS and the mailman to drive up pretty often, plus you'll meet your mail carrier.

Otherwise don't be too worried and don't buy expensive gadgets; the police can't get to you lightening fast anyway.

Dog * cell & land line * decent but not crazy bright lights are all good * pepper spray too, when strangers pop-up....sometimes it happens.

This may be impossible to implement, but in Tokyo most people have metal pocket doors over their large windows (and bars over the smaller ones). The doors slide horizontally and in the middle have metal latches to hold them closed. They are invisible during the day since they slide right into the walls, but nearly impregnable at night when slid shut and latched. At the very least, trying to break in would be so noisy and time-consuming that you'd have more than enough time to call the police and barricade yourself in.

Given that the U.S. has a higher crime rate than Japan, I'm surprised this form of security isn't built into more homes there as it's unobtrusive and doesn't affect the beauty of the home.

Statistically you're much more likely to die in a motor vehicle collision that being physically attacked by a complete stranger in your home. There is some risk, no matter how tiny, to almost everything - the problem is that when you watch the news you never hear about the 99.9% of the general population that haven't been broken into.

If someone breaks in when you're not home: its just stuff and most of it can be replaced. You can do a little "target hardening" - trim back that big shrub out front, install decent window and door locks or metal grills, certainly change the door locks when you move in, a couple of lights or your TV on timers (and change the times occasionally), but you have to realize that given time and privacy to work pretty much anyone can get into any house. What you want to do is minimize the privacy a potential burglar has and make the process a little more difficult.

If you're still nervous when you're at home by all means install an alarm, but make it an audible one. The thing about a motel is that there will be other people fairly close by - and a burglar will know that - so if something happens you want everyone close by to know about it. The problem with a police-response alarm is that despite their claims the alarm company can't guarantee that the police will come, or will arrive in the 4 minutes the average burglar spends in a house. They may be 20 minutes away, they may be tied up on something else.

The problem with a gun is that you're more likely to shoot the motel manager or one of your cats. I have some experience in this, having carried one for 25 years. Better to make friends with the people who own the motel - neighbours keep an eye on each other's homes.

It is true. Most people I know in the country have been burglarized by teenaged "friends" of neighbors or of the handyman (who had a jail record, but is reformed). But those were petty thefts of weekend houses. On the whole, though, good relations with the neighbors is a good idea.

Plant The Fairy or Darlow's Enigma under each window. They're very cute and will grab anyone who tries to climb in and hold them until the police arrive. I'm not kidding. You might have to pay the criminal's medical bills though.

As for the doors, add locks like it's a movie-style NYC apartment.

Explain why you're moving to a place that you don't feel secure. Is it too late to find another place? The scary woods will always be there.

A lot of good suggestions here - focus on the obvious easy wins - trim the bush, motion sensor if you feel it might deter, or at least alert you.

The suggestions I like best are the ones about creating illusions NRA stickers, mans baseball cap etc.

However a wise friend recently said to me (in the context of sports training) that the more she focused on something "Dont do that" "Dont do that" the mind almost pics it up as "DO THAT" just because you are devoting so much time to it. If you are smart enough to post this question to AT, then you are smart enough to know the basics. Make your plan for what you will do and then move on. Focus on getting to know the neighbours and your new area. If it makes you more comfortable swing by and meet the sheriff or whoever might be able to give you local context, but dont let it take over your life!

For me the hardest part of going home (and home is suburbs) is the absence of NY street noise, it takes a while to adapt at night - thats normal....

After a very scary incident in my apartment building, I got concerned about home invasion. I honestly didn't care if someone broke in and stole my stuff, but I was afraid of someone coming into my bedroom in the middle of the night while I was asleep. The best thing I did was put a sliding bolt lock on my bedroom door. I slept so much better with that silly little lock. I figured that if someone should happen to break in, they could take all my stuff and I didn't care, but they'd have to at least make some noise in order to get into my bedroom. I was able to sleep much better because I wasn't afraid of being attacked in my sleep.

I knew how unlikely it was that someone would break into my apartment in the middle of the night. But after what happened, just the thought of it spooked me. The lock was a bit of a placebo, but it worked.

house in the woods? just DON'T watch scary movies. ghosts, monsters, serial killers, or whatever. they get your imagination running and everything seems scarier than it really is.

but yeah, a big ol' dog would be good too.

I live by myself as well and one thing I'm surprised many of my friends don't do: Lock your doors ANY time you are inside. Even during the day, lock the doors as soon as you get inside the front door.

One of my friends woke up from a nap at 2pm to find a stranger in her living room... not cool. She told me it was daytime and she was planning on leaving in an hour, so she didn't think to lock the doors. It's just good to get in the habit of locking your door, no matter what.

I also always leave a light on- it helps me feel better when I don't have to walk into a completely dark apartment. It's a bit wasteful, I know, but it makes me feel better. :)

Even though so many others have given their two cents, I had to as well. I recently moved from Las Vegas to a much quieter area of North Carolina, not as quiet as your new location, but close enough.

While living in Las Vegas I had a few close calls; I caught someone loitering on my patio several times, planning God only knows what. So I TOTALLY understand your paranoia. After those incidents I blocked off the window in my bedroom and slept on the couch, since the living room was the only other room in the apartment with external access and I wanted to hear any B&E noises. Also I left the patio light on ALL night and put dowels in the windows so they could only be accessed from inside.

But I was still paranoid, so I installed these on doors and windows to further ease my mind. Then I was paranoid about someone cutting the glass of my sliding door to get in. I never figured out how to counter that cheaply.

I don't trust alarm services. The company I worked for in Vegas had ADT's alarm service. One day, while my boss was out of town, ADT called him at 6:00am because the alarm was going off. He said to send someone to the business to check it out, then called me (and woke me up) to also check it out. I got dressed, went to work (20 min drive), looked around, turned the alarm off, went back home, showered, dressed, and returned at 8:00. ADT security--not police--finally arrived about 5 minutes after I returned to work. What if something bad had actually happened? ADT would have been useless, arriving two hours late. I especially don't trust ADT.

I hate dogs, so I won't suggest getting one. I do suggest motion-sensing lights. A friend of mine has them, and her cats don't set it off, but people sure do, so that shouldn't be an issue.

I hope that you're able to secure your home in ways that ease your mind.

Leave radio or tv on. Did anybody say this?

Oh and stop worrying! If something is going to happen, it's going to happen.

GET A DOG.

Everyone should have one of these. I have three, one on either side of the bed (you don't want to be all groggy and reach for the wrong side).. and one beside my hot tub!

http://www.the-backup.com/buy/commercial.php

I just have to say no matter what your views are on the subject a gun is a great equalizer.

When I was a freshman in college, a girl was raped just outside of my frst floor dorm room window (I was at the library when it happened). After that, my roommate and I made a DIY alarm system by stringing some beer cans and bottles together and hanging them across the bottom of the window.
I still put things on my window sills that will make lots of noise if someone tries to get in through the window. For example, a few pretty bottles, a string of decorative (and loud) bells, plants in ceramic pots, etc.

And I have a big, loud dog.

Make sure your outdoor trash cans have tight lids or are covered by a bungee cord. I cannot tell you the heart attack I nearly had one night when I heard banging outside. The motion detector light went off and as I cautiously peeked out my 2nd floor bedroom window I looked down upon 5 massive raccoons having a party in the two big trash cans. (the light didn't deter them. I had to go downstairs and bang on the kitchen window to get them to run off!)

Know what wildlife is native to your neighborhood and prepare your home against it. Watch out for snakes down there. Growing up in NC we always had to watch out for copperheads - they're pretty bold!

Security bars, and if you can afford to build a garage, so that you can go from car to house, that's great.
Cut down the shrubs.

Are you also thinking of how you'll protect your cats? Are they chipped? Do their collars have current phone number(s) on them? Shots up to date (different ones than if only indoor city cats) Even if they only go outside occasionally, do they have a place to hide from larger animals?

The pepper spray is also a good idea in case any dangerous animals come out of those woods, perhaps attracted by the trash generated from the motel.

And since the motel is likely the closest source of assistance, make friends with whomever is on the "desk" and keep those numbers on speed dial.

Relax and enjoy your new home!

Are you concerned about the safety of your property (i.e. from burglars) or the safety of yourself? - these two issues are two different things and need to be approached differently

For property, as long as you've got locks on every entrance to the property thats about all you can do and "stuff" is easily replaced anyway

For personal safety, you are actually more likely to be attacked OUTSIDE of your home than inside it - walking from your car to your front door for instance

Just remember to keep doors locked when you're inside your house as others have said but don't let this fear stop you living your life and enjoying what looks like a perfect little country cottage

thank you for all the comments! to answer some: i'm not as concerned with my property (don't have much, to be honest) as i am with personal safety. The solar lights are a must, I'm trimming the bushes, making friends with the neighbors and the motel staff, motion sensor lights (not sensitive ones-- also to light the way from car to house at night), timers on the tv, keeping doors locked at all times, and enjoying the area. It's not quite as rural as it seems-- here's a hint as to where I'm going: i'm going to school in the area and it's mostly a tourist destination.
I'm coming from a big city so I imagine it'll take a lot of getting used to but I can't wait to live in a lovely place!
ps- the cats are indoor ONLY, chipped and up to date on all shots.

Buy a shotgun. Learn how to use it and store it safely. Shotguns are inexpensive, easy to use, and effective.

Wow abog that is really scary. I hope your friend is ok!?

I second the locking doors immediately. I'm really paranoid and I lock the doors the second I get inside the apartment. I also do the same in my car.

A dog is a really good idea if you don't mind pets. I have heard that burglars tend to shy away from places with a dog, even if it is a small dog, because they have no idea how big/dangerous your dog is, they can only hear it barking.

A gun might be a good idea only if you are willing to learn to use it. If you aren't used to handling a gun it won't be all that effective.

Please don't get a dog just to have it for burglar-deterrance.

I love dogs and always feel better with one around, but they are way too much of a commitment to be JUST a security system. And some dogs aren't good watchdogs anyhow, or are protective but do not bark.

I'd get a handgun instead. They are quieter and less messy on a daily basis and never ask to be walked in the snow. :)

I love the Wolverine key trick and have used that for about 20 years whenever I feel uncomfortable going from car to building.

BE AWARE. When you get out of your car, look all around and make eye contact with people.

Add a deadbolt to the bedroom door, so it's one more obstacle for an intruder to overcome before reaching you.

Keep a land line in the locked bedroom.

Sleep with a hammer and pepper spray next to the bed.

I also like the suggestion of knowing the hotel manager/staff, and getting familiar with the people in your neighborhood and their patterns.

What about a "Beware of Dog" sign? I don't recommend getting a dog just for security. Dogs are awesome, but they really are a lifestyle change.

Karen -- I live in a more rural part of Virginia than you do (I have an idea where you're located) and pretty much agree with the previous suggestions. If your schedule permits it and your cats can abide it, I'd get a dog. I have two chihuahuas, and you'd be astounded how many people are scared of them and keep their distance as a result. Neither weighs more than 10 pounds and one doesn't have teeth, but huge grown men have backed away from their barks.

Also, making friends with the motel manager and mail people are great ideas. Our mail people keep a close eye on us, which is very comforting.

I would feel more creeped out by a nearby motel than by the woods. We haven't been burgled and surrounding houses have, possibly because it looks like crazy people live here, and we work here most all the time. I have pet geese, (today is the 20th anniversary of one!) and if they are raised by people they will bite and they always make noise when anyone appears or they hear talking. The UPS man said they are more threatening than any dogs he knows. I also have an intimidating goat with large horns and a dog. Which , I admit, adds to the evidence that crazy people live here. Pets are not for everyone and unless you dedicate yourself to their care, a bad idea. I have had guinea fowls and they are predator bait and constantly noisy. Someday hope to have a donkey. We have multiple vehicles of all type. The illusion you are not alone is your best defense.

I'm a Philly girl living in the panhandle of WV, while it's still fairly rural in this general area there is a race track nearby which gets all sorts of interesting characters. Not to mention the dumping of a body less than a mile from my new house that was linked to the MS13 gang. So you can never be too careful... however some of the suggestions so far are borderline paranoia.

First, relax. Know your new house, know your new neighborhood. Know the weak spots and build from there.

Common sense is the best defense. Lock your doors at all times and if you have a screen/storm door lock that, too. While it's easy to get through a locked screen door to the front door it's one more obstacle and one more potential screw-up for any burglar or anyone else, this advice was given to me by a retired state trooper.

Do not sleep in a bedroom with open windows, especially if it's the first floor. If it's the second floor are there climbable trees with branches nearby? Are the windows easily seen from the road if someone were extra determined to use a ladder?

Never under estimate the defensive power of window treatments. Yes, window treatments. If you don't put your life on display then you won't tempt fate. ;)

Close and lock all windows when you leave, otherwise invest in some sort of way to secure a partially opened window from the inside. Timers for lights especially during the winter months so you don't come home to a dark house.

Good luck and like I already said, relax! Once you get settled and into a daily routine you'll be fine!

In our first house (in a dicey neighborhood) I used a trick that's been common in Europe for centuries...

I used crushed rock in geometric patterns to landscape our back garden. It was impossible to approach our house without tell-tale crunching sounds from walking on it.

At our current house (nicer neighborhood), we have a wooden perimeter fence and charming bells on every gate. I can hear someone enter our property from within the house.

I understand you're renting, so these project may not be feasible, so I would second the ideas of window stops and a sliding bolt on the bedroom door. They are simple to do and feeling safe while asleep is so important.

Karen, just curious, how is it going in your new home?