Whether you’re moving for a job, to be closer to family, or for a new start, you must be careful during the relocation. Not only is it helpful to keep the process as stress-free as possible, but it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings and cautious of who you meet while you’re going from place to place. If you’re thinking of moving soon, consider this advice on researching the move, communicating with others, and making a safe haven once you arrive at your destination.
Trust Your Instincts
Whether you’re moving across the country or to the next city, you must protect yourself by trusting your instincts every step of the way. It’s unfortunate, but many times, women are expected to act differently than men and withstand unsafe situations for the sake of politeness. While it’s good to be cordial and respectful of others, being too nice can cause some people to try to take advantage of you or lead to harassment.
The solution is to trust your instincts while you’re relocating and settling into your new neighborhood. If someone approaches you and something feels off, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. It’s also okay to say no. If someone comes to your door and tries to get into your home to sell you something, it’s okay to be strong and tell them to leave. For extra protection, remember that you carry pepper spray, a stun gun, or another defensive weapon for more confidence as you navigate a new place.
It’s important to use your instincts throughout the relocation process, including when calling potential moving companies. You don’t want to go for the cheapest moving help without at least researching them first. Check out the company’s website, read their reviews, and ask questions. Then, ask for a price estimate, learn what it includes, and move forward if you don’t see any red flags.
Safety When Traveling Long Distance
There’s also a lot you can learn from moving companies and experts during your cross-country move. Many will tell you the importance of determining and planning the proper move-in date. If possible, try to avoid moving when there’s a chance of adverse weather. For instance, you could avoid snow and ice by moving during the spring or summer.
If you’re traveling for days, be smart about your personal belongings, like your ID, cash, and documents. Don’t leave everything in one spot. For instance, if you put everything in your glove compartment and your car is stolen, you’ll lose everything, so keep some items in a wallet, others in a backpack, etc. Also, take photos of your ID and credit cards so you can refer to or cancel them if they’re lost or stolen.
Finally, plan out your route so you have safe places to stop along the way. One important tip in this regard is to keep your gas tank at least halfway full. That way, you aren’t forced to stop at a random unsafe gas station or run out of gas completely. If you ever think you’re being followed while driving, try to drive to a police station or hospital where a criminal is less likely to continue following.
Staying Safe Once You Get There
Once you get to your destination, continue to prioritize your safety, especially if this is a new and unfamiliar city or you’re living alone. If you’re living in a house, as soon as you arrive, make it a point to change or update the locks so that you’re the only one with the keys.
Don’t take too long to get used to your surroundings. Learn where the police and fire station are and then the safest routes to get there and to and from work. Find out what ride and taxi services are prevalent in the area in case you are lost in your new town. Make efforts to stay safe when using ridesharing services, being sure to wait for your ride in a safe place and using trip-sharing features with someone you trust.
There are steps you can take at home as well. One of the best safety tips when living alone is to talk to neighbors or people in your apartment complex and try to befriend at least one of them. It’s even better if it’s another woman who lives alone because you can learn from each other and always have someone there when you need support.
There are also home safety tips that you can try to ensure your security. If you leave the house and know it will be dark when you return, leave at least one light on. It will help you see your way when you return, and it will give people outside the impression that someone is home. When you go to sleep, keep your vehicle’s car fob on your nightstand. If you think an intruder is outside, turn on your car alarm. It will scare the intruder and alert your neighbors that something may be wrong.
Conclusion
It’s essential that you keep your personal safety at the forefront of your mind when you’re relocating or traveling to a new place. Use the tips discussed here so you can start your new life on the right page.
