Whether you live in a house or apartment, or simply spend many evenings alone, you may have security concerns. These concerns may be even more serious after a recent move or other significant change.

Put an end to the stress with our expert advice on what to do when you’re alone: ​​From cheap safety devices to important tweaks, these best practices are perfect for solo living.

Learn more: Essential Safety Tips When Staying in an Airbnb or Rental

1. Install a motion detector or tinkling bell

One of the best safety measures to take when living alone is to know when someone else is present. A traditional option is to attach a string of bells to your doorknob (also making it holiday-ready), but we have more reliable choices these days like this bright LED motion sensor for $12.

If you prefer an outdoor alert or motion sensor that can cover a long hallway/open floor plan, you can choose this $35 weatherproof sensor and hub with an adjustable chime instead.

This tip works especially well for those who live alone, as old or new detectors can be easily triggered by children or partners, creating more confusion than confidence. You’ll want to place them in locations and heights that animals also can’t reach or activate.

2. Get a portable door lock for the room you’re in

Portable locks can give any traditional door without a deadbolt an extra lock for protection. You can easily place them on bedroom doors, rental doors, or any other door where you want more defense, regardless of home security. This is a useful and versatile solution if you’re not sure how long you’ll be living alone and want something extra for a specific room.

Portable locks are also affordable. Here is a two-pack for just $17. And if you want a more substantial upgrade, you can always choose a smart lock with app controls.

3. Choose a portable camera that you can move wherever you need it

A security camera can be a welcome eye on your home if you live alone, but our experts recommend a portable, wireless indoor model in this case. You can move a portable camera around to monitor any room you want or any particular hallway, corner or shadow that gives you goosebumps.

Our favorite cameras for these purposes include the Google Nest Indoor/Outdoor Camera ($180) and the Ring Stick Up Cam Battery ($100). Both of these cameras can also work outdoors if you’re worried about a dark yard.

4. Equip the main door with a video doorbell

A video doorbell notifies you when someone approaches, allows you to speak with a visitor remotely, and can even sound sirens or speak with automated messages. This is an all-in-one security device that’s especially useful if you’re home alone, and we have a complete guide to the best models for your door. If you are watching your portfolio, we can also recommend several excellent inexpensive video doorbells.

Keep in mind that most doorbells require a subscription or microSD card to store video footage. Some even allow you to set the doorbell to recognize familiar faces and warn of an unfamiliar face, which users may prefer.

5. Set your indoor/outdoor lights to turn on at night

Most intruders or burglars do not do this. know you are alone at home. You can make the illusion even more convincing with smart lighting that turns on at scheduled times to make it appear as if more people are arriving at the home and being active in multiple rooms.

Smart bulbs are more affordable than ever, with options like this Amazon Basics 4-pack available for $40. They are designed to fit standard household sockets, and many no longer require hubs to work, so they are very flexible. Set and forget a turn-on schedule to keep your home occupied no matter what’s going on.

6. Change your device passwords and lock connections

People living alone, especially women, are much more likely to be attacked by someone they know when they are at home. So I recommend that when your life situation changes, you prioritize changing the passwords for your security apps, your Wi-Fi routers, your security cameras, and even your phone. Don’t forget to change the codes on your locks and garage door, if necessary. This is a basic safety measure that is all too easy to forget when you get used to living alone.

Learn more: We asked a criminologist about the most common ways burglars break in

7. Choose a high-quality keychain pepper spray

You never want to find yourself in a situation where you feel physically threatened by someone, but if that happens, it’s good to have a small can of Mace or pepper spray nearby. This Saber spray is available for $12 and attaches to your key ring so you always have it nearby. You can even attach it to phone cases, purses or belts. It features a quick release clasp for easy access, as well as a twist lock for added security.

Bonus Tip: Invest in a Panic Button

If you want to go the extra mile for solo safety, get a panic button that you can carry with you or place nearby to immediately contact responders whenever you need to. These panic buttons are an integral part of home security systems. Ring Alarm offers one for $30while SimpliSafe offers a wall-mounted model for $20. Systems like ADT Plus combine panic buttons with their access remotes, and you can even find standalone models from brands like Silent Beacon.

These devices require a subscription to work properly and aren’t suitable for every wallet, but they complement the security of your home when no one else is present (or the security of your home for a loved one in a similar situation).

For more specific safety tips, see if you can use a security camera in a building, how to deter burglars from entering your home, if a dog is good for home security And the worst places to install a security camera.