Although living alone can bring a sense of independence and liberation, it can also bring about a set of safety challenges, especially if you are a woman living in South Africa.
World Population Review, an independent for-profit organisation committed to delivering up-to-date global population data and demographics, ranks South Africa as having the third-highest crime rate in the world for 2024 so far, with notably high rates of assaults, rape, homicides, and other violent crimes.
For his 17 November 2023 address on the quarter two crime statistics 2023/2024, Minister of Police Bheki Cele noted that there had been a decrease in the country’s murder figures. Although, this has not changed South Africa’s global crime ranking.
The Minister also added, “The statistics show that fewer women and children were killed in South Africa, between July to September 2023, (decreasing by 10.9% and 7.0% respectively.) However, and disturbingly, the crime figures show that far too many women and children in this country are NOT safe around people that they know and trust and at times those that they love and in the places where they are supposed to be safe.”
The above may be a bitter pill to swallow but safety is of paramount importance. Below are a few essential safety tips for women living alone.
Take self-defence classes
Security business Reolink shares that although it is sometimes advised to run away from danger, in some cases, self-defence techniques are necessary to keep you from harm’s way.
Invest in a security camera
SafeWise, another company that prioritises people’s safety, says that there is no better way to have another pair of eyes than a security camera. “If your cameras are part of a monitored security system, it’s like having your own security staff on duty 24/7 without the hassle of a roommate.”
Be aware of your surroundings
“Being aware of your surroundings means paying attention to what’s happening around you and being prepared to react quickly if necessary,” says Reolink.
Keep your home well-lit
Another essential tip to ensure safety is to keep a few lights on in your home. Reolink states, “Keeping the lights around the home on (especially at night), even when absent, can help make a residence look occupied and deter potential intruders.”
Update people you trust on your whereabouts
SafeWise suggests that you keep close friends in the know about your regular routine and let them know if something is going to alter that routine.
