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Like most, I considered making new resolutions focused on my health, my career and spending more quality time with family. Yes, the new year is a time for fresh beginnings, and while many resolutions focus on the normal annual self-promises, taking action for your personal and home safety are just as essential to consider for the new year. The start of the year is the perfect time to reevaluate your safety habits, upgrade your security measures, and prepare for unexpected events. By adopting a few practical resolutions, you can create a safer environment for yourself and your loved ones.

Reassess Your Home Security

Our homes are our sanctuaries and protecting them should be a top priority. Start by evaluating the security measures you currently have in place. Are your locks in good condition? Do you have adequate outdoor lighting? A secure home begins with simple but effective precautions. Proper lighting around the exterior of your home not only deters potential intruders but also enhances your safety when navigating outdoor spaces after dark. Install motion-activated lights near entryways, driveways, and pathways, and ensure that existing lights are functioning correctly.

If you do not have one in place already, consider upgrading to a smart security system that allows you to monitor your home remotely. Many modern systems come equipped with motion detectors, video doorbells, and smartphone integration, making it easier than ever to stay aware of your property. If you already have a security system, take time to test it to ensure it is functioning correctly. Replace old batteries in alarms and sensors and update the software for any connected devices.

Physical security is also essential. Reinforce doors and windows, especially on the ground floor of your home where access may be easier for an intruder to break in. Installing deadbolts, security bars, or window locks can provide an additional layer of protection or at least a deterrent. Don’t forget about outdoor spaces—trim bushes and trees near windows to reduce hiding spots for potential intruders. Combined with adequate lighting, these measures create a safer and more secure environment for your home.

You can read more on securing your home by reading our previous blogs:

• Enhancing Security Outside Your Home
• Enhancing Security Inside Your Home

Update Emergency Plans and Supplies

The current fires in California are unfortunate but are a good example that emergencies can happen at any time when we least expect them. Being prepared is one of the most effective ways to ensure your safety in case of emergency. Use the new year to review your family’s emergency plan. If you don’t have one, now is the time to create it.

Your plan should include evacuation routes, meeting points, and contact information for all family members. Practice the plan regularly, especially if you have children, to ensure everyone knows what to do in various scenarios, from house fires to severe weather events.

Don’t forget about your pets when updating your emergency plan. Include them in evacuation routes and consider their needs in your emergency kit. Have a carrier or leash ready, along with food, water, and any necessary medications. Keep a copy of your pet’s vaccination records and a recent photo in case you need to identify or locate them. Pets are family too, and ensuring their safety is an essential part of a comprehensive emergency plan.

Check your emergency supplies to make sure they are complete and up-to-date. Essentials include non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and any necessary medications. Aim to have enough supplies to last at least three days. If you live in an area prone to specific hazards, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, tailor your kit accordingly.

Prioritize Digital Security

In today’s interconnected world, digital safety is just as important as physical security. Cybercriminals often take advantage of the new year, sending phishing emails or offering fake deals to unsuspecting victims, in particular the elderly and minors using digital devices. Strengthen your digital defenses by updating passwords and enabling two-factor authentication on your accounts. Consider using a password creator that generates complex, unique passwords, reducing the risk of breaches. Taking these proactive measures ensures your digital presence remains secure as you navigate the new year.

Securing Your Credit

Consider locking your credit to prevent identity theft, which can protect you from unauthorized access to your financial information. Freezing or locking your credit prevents lenders and creditors from accessing your credit report without your consent, making it much harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name. It’s free, easy to manage, and can be temporarily lifted if you need to apply for credit.

Make a habit of regularly checking your credit report and monitoring your bank accounts for unauthorized activity. Investing in identity theft protection services can also provide peace of mind. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions and ensure your home network is secured with a strong password.

Another aspect of digital safety is protecting your children online. Set up parental controls on devices and discuss safe internet practices with your family. The new year is an excellent time to review screen time limits and encourage healthy online habits.

Read more about digital security and scams in our blog:

• Tools and Best Practices to Help Avoid Being Scammed

Perform Regular Maintenance

Many safety hazards around the home stem from neglect or lack of upkeep. Resolve to perform regular maintenance checks on your home to identify and address potential risks.

Inspect smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms monthly, and replace batteries as needed. Schedule an annual inspection of your HVAC system, fireplace, and chimney to prevent fire hazards. If you have a home generator, ensure it’s in good working condition and stored safely.

Check your home’s electrical system for outdated wiring or overloaded circuits and address any issues promptly. Regularly clean out dryer vents to reduce the risk of fire, and inspect water heaters, pipes, and roofs for potential leaks or damage.

Improve Personal Safety Habits

Personal safety often comes down to situational awareness and preparedness. Make a resolution to stay vigilant, whether you’re at home, at work, or out running errands. Avoid distractions like texting while walking and always be aware of your surroundings. Familiarize yourself with the levels of situational awareness. When outdoors and away from your home, you should remain at level yellow of awareness. You should NEVER be at level White, even at home.

• White: The lowest level of awareness, where someone is unaware of their surroundings and unprepared for an attack. This state can be characterized as “daydreaming” or “preoccupied”.
• Yellow: A relaxed awareness, where someone is paying more attention to their surroundings.
• Orange: A specific alert has triggered full attention, where someone has determined that there is a possible threat and is prepared to act.
• Red: You are involved in an emergency or need to take action to protect yourself, a loved one or an innocent victim.

If you don’t already carry an everyday safety kit, consider assembling one with practical items such as a flashlight, multitool, and personal safety alarm. For those comfortable with self-defense, consider adding pepper spray or taking a self-defense class to boost your confidence and skills.

Another vital aspect of personal safety is keeping your vehicle in good condition. Schedule regular maintenance, ensure your tires are properly inflated, and keep an emergency kit in your car. In winter, add blankets, a snow scraper, and other cold-weather essentials.

Build a Community Safety Network

Safety isn’t just an individual effort; it’s a community initiative. Get to know your neighbors and participate in local safety groups or neighborhood watch programs. Building relationships with those around you fosters a sense of collective responsibility and can deter criminal activity.

Consider hosting or attending community workshops on safety topics, such as disaster preparedness, first aid, or cybersecurity. Sharing resources and knowledge strengthens the entire community and creates a safer environment for everyone.

Read more about community safety in our blog:

• Community Safety: It Takes a Village

Reflect and Reevaluate

As the year progresses, take time to reflect on the safety resolutions you’ve made. Are they working? Are there areas where you can improve? Safety is an ongoing process, and periodic reevaluation ensures you stay prepared for changing circumstances.

Keeping a journal or checklist can help you track your progress and identify any gaps in your safety plan. Share your experiences with family and friends, encouraging them to adopt similar habits and create a culture of safety in their own lives.

Conclusion

Besides promising yourself to get out and exercise more, the new year is an opportunity to prioritize safety and security, both for yourself and your loved ones. By reassessing your home security, updating emergency plans, improving digital safety, and committing to regular maintenance, you can build a solid foundation for a safer future.

Adopting these resolutions may require effort and investment, but the peace of mind they bring is invaluable. Remember, safety is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. As you move forward into the new year, keep these principles in mind, and embrace the sense of confidence that comes with being well-prepared.

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