Living alone for the first time is an exciting right of passage, but for many, it can feel intimidating or even scary. When you're on your own, the most important thing is safety and ensuring you and your home are secure. In 2025, simply locking the door and hoping for the best is not enough; it's crucial to take the added steps to protect yourself. That's why we've made this comprehensive first-time living-alone checklist that tells you everything you need to keep you and your home safe. Being on your own doesn't have to be scary; by taking these easy steps, you can protect what matters most.
Is it Safe to Live Alone?
While you may hear stories in the news about crime, on the whole living alone is safe. However, protecting yourself from intruders and burglars is crucial since you are at a higher risk of harm. By taking the right steps, you can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime. These helpful tips will help you stay safe when you're on your own.
● Always lock your doors when you’re at home and away
● Utilize security cameras to monitor your property
● Set up an alarm system
● Use lighting to keep vulnerable areas illuminated
● Get to know your neighbors
● Have an emergency contact list
● Routinely check your doors and windows
● Never post your location on social media
● Learn self-defense techniques
When living alone for the first time tips like those above go a long way in keeping you safe and providing peace of mind.
First Time Living Alone Checklist
1. Install Smart Door Locks
Smart door locks are redefining safety, and none of them compare to the Aqara Smart Lock U300. These futuristic locks give you full control over who enters your home, with features like fingerprint access, PIN codes, Bluetooth connection, and temporary password protection. Choose between passage mode and auto-lock for effortless access and unlock your door with just a touch over your iPhone or Apple Watch. No power? No problem! Even though there's an impressive 10-month battery life, you can easily open your lock even when the power is out. The U300 is rated IPX4, making it ideal for residential use. It works in temperatures as low as -22°F and in the rainiest conditions. Since you can create temporary passwords, you never have to worry about your landlord having unwanted access or remodeling. Simply provide your guests with their own password and deactivate it when it's no longer needed. Smart door locks like the U300 take the fear out of living alone for the first time.
2. Use Smart Security Cameras
Smart security cameras allow you to monitor your property and give you eyes and ears throughout your home. The key is using equipment that offers high-quality visual and audio both during the day and at night. The Aqara Camera Hub G3 is your new home companion. Powered by advanced AI technology it offers unsurpassed face, gesture, and pet recognition for unmatched automation. The 360° viewing angle lets you look at specific areas and track people or pets anytime, anywhere. It pairs seamlessly with your existing infrared-compatible devices, HomeKit Secure Video, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home, and since the IR automation is local, it runs even if your internet connection is down. The high-resolution 2304 x 1296 pixel sensor provides crystal-clear images you'll have to see to believe.
For premium outdoor audio and visual quality, turn to the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro. It features 7-in-1 visual AI and 4-in-1 audio AI for advanced detection with WiFi or ethernet connectivity. With 4MP 1520p resolution, True Color Night Vision, and a built-in spotlight, you can enjoy crystal-clear images day and night. The G5 Pro boasts an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing it to operate in temperatures as low as -22°F. With a rotatable stand that lets you mount on ceilings, walls, or flat surfaces, monitoring your home has never been easier.
3. Set Up Smart Alarm Systems
A smart alarm system is a must for anyone living alone for the first time. Not only does it alert you to any possible concerns but it connects you to the proper authorities. The heart and soul of any alarm system are motion sensors that detect movement in and around your home. The Aqara Motion Sensor P1 works with the Aqara Zigbee 3.0 hub, creating an advanced smart home ecosystem for unmatched peace of mind. The P1 features a 5-year battery life allowing it to consistently perform even in low temperatures. Its compact design is small but powerful, with three sensitivity modes to reduce false alarms and provide added flexibility. A built-in light sensor and configurable detection timeout put you in control so you can choose how you want your detection system to work.
The Aqara Door and Window Sensor takes your smart alarm system to the next level, providing real-time alerts when your windows and doors are open. A part of the Aqara hub utilizes advanced technology to let you know the status of your home and features an impressive 2-year battery life under normal usage. You can program your system to turn on your lights when the door is opened and enjoy seamless compatibility with your Apple HomeKit, Alexa, or Google Home devices.
4. Install Smart Lighting Systems
No first time living alone checklist would be complete without mentioning smart lighting systems. Lighting is one of your most powerful deterrents against crime, as many criminals choose to work in the shadows. Having your lights on a timer gives the appearance that your home is occupied, even when you're not there. 72% of burglaries occur when no one is home, so simulating an occupant is one of the best ways to keep your home safe. By prioritizing good lighting, you can put a spotlight on burglars, keeping them at bay.
The Aqara Smart Plug works with the Aqara Hub and fits into any standard electrical plug. Attach your lights and enjoy remote control anywhere through the app. You can also monitor your power consumption, which makes it easier to reduce energy usage and save money. The Smart Plug makes any light fully automated, allowing you to create schedules, times, and scenes for your daily routine. As an extra bonus, you can even use it for your fans, appliances, and more, making it easy to create a smart home at an affordable price.
For even more lighting options, the Aqara Smart Bulb T2 gives you the options you crave. Choose from an astonishing 16 million colors that set the tone no matter what the occasion. Since the T2 is fully compatible with Apple HomeKit Adaptive Lighting, you can even control the light temperature, making it warmer or cooler with a single touch. The power-off memory support lets you turn your lights on or off after a power outage for superior convenience and comfort. Finally, exclusive features like transition settings, dynamic and static effects, and MARS tech make this light bulb the perfect addition for anyone living alone for the first time.
If you prefer a sleek, modern look for your lighting, you'll fall in love with the Aqara LED Ceiling Light T1M. This stunning fixture makes protecting your home easy and beautiful with true-to-life hues and over 16 million color options. The voice control capabilities work with Google, Alexa, Home Kit, and more, while the 50,000-hour lifespan gives you unmatched peace of mind. Upgrade your lighting with the elegant T1M and complete your whole home smart lighting system.
5. Use a Smart Smoke Detector
Every home must have a smoke detector in every room to alert you should a fire start. Smart smoke detectors are a great addition for anyone living alone for the first time. Like a traditional smoke alarm, they alert you if they detect smoke, but these smart models go a step further with WiFi connectivity. When one detector goes off, it triggers all of them, ensuring everyone in the house knows there's danger no matter where they are. They also connect to your smartphone for easy monitoring and quick evacuations. Adding a smart smoke detector is a small but effective way to help you stay safe when you're on your own.
Similar to a smoke detector is a gas detector. These devices are essential in homes that use natural gas like propane. Too often, people don't know about a gas leak until it reaches dangerous levels, causing numerous health issues and putting your home at risk. A smart gas detector sends an audible alert when gas levels reach a 7% low explosive limit, but they're programmable to respond to lesser amounts for earlier alerts. They also connect to your smartphone and provide real-time alerts and gas levels so you can have peace of mind. If your home is at risk for natural gas, propane, LNG, LPG, butane, methane, or other types of gas leaks, a smart gas detector is an essential part of your first time living alone checklist.
6. Build Good Relationships with Neighbors
Your neighbors can play a key role in keeping you and your home safe. They can monitor your home when you're away and alert you to anyone showing suspicious behavior. When living alone, having a community of people you trust around you can make all the difference, and your neighbors are a great place to start. If you're unsure how to get to know your neighbors, you can try baking cookies or brownies and using them to introduce yourself. Walking around your neighborhood is another great way to meet people, or you can try visiting local stores and restaurants. While it may take a bit of time, building a good relationship with your neighbors will keep you connected and give you an added level of safety and security.
7. Create an Emergency Contact List
An emergency contact list is how first responders alert your friends and family if something happens to you. You can also use it as a guide for who to call if something happens when you’re alone. Take time when creating your emergency contact list, and choose people you trust and can rely on.
8. Check Doors and Windows Regularly
When it comes to living alone for the first time, it's important to remember that you're your own best advocate. Taking precautionary steps like checking that your windows and doors are closed and locked can go a long way to keeping your home secured. Many people choose to add extra locks for added peace of mind, especially if they live on the ground floor. While it can be nice letting in a fresh breeze, basic window and door safety can mean the difference between a safe home and one that's a magnet for burglars.
9. Avoid Sharing Your Whereabouts on Social Media
Social media is a place where people connect, but it can also be a way for burglars to know when you’re away. Sharing your location puts a spotlight on your home and makes it easier for theft and robberies. Keep your location private and wait to post pictures while on vacation until you return. These simple steps can help keep your home safe even when you’re away.
10. Learn basic Self-Defense Techniques
Everyone, no matter their age or gender, should know basic self-defense techniques. Even if you think you live in a safe neighborhood, knowing how to defend yourself is a skill that's never wasted. You can find classes in your area that are made for beginners, so you don't have to feel embarrassed by trying something new. Investing in your safety is one expense that's sure to pay dividends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to prevent burglary when living alone?
You can help stop a burglary before it happens by implementing a few safety practices like locking your doors and windows, installing a home security system, investing in good lighting, and getting to know your neighbors.
What smart home devices are best for people living alone?
Choosing the right smart home device can keep you safe when you're living alone. Aqara offers top-quality products like smart locks, cameras, motion sensors, and smart bulbs that make it easy to secure your home.
How to deal with emergencies
If you're home alone and an emergency happens, you should immediately call 911. You can also contact a neighbor or friend to let them know what's going on.
Conclusion
Aqara is proud to offer a full line of smart home products that are perfect for anyone living alone for the first time. These devices utilize cutting-edge technology to put you in control so you can rest easily, knowing you and your home are protected. Explore the full line of products available now from the leader in smart home technology: Aqara.
