RAA research shows South Australians under 30 are the most worried about their safety when home alone, and women feel three times more vulnerable than men.
According to research for RAA’s Safety Report 2014*, 20 per cent of people worry about their safety when home alone and Ben Nottage from RAA Secure Services says women and the under 30s feel the most vulnerable.
“Our research found that 25-30 year olds are the segment most likely (30 per cent) to feel vulnerable when home alone, compared to just 11 per cent of 55-64 year olds.
“Women also feel more vulnerable, with 25 per cent saying they were worried about being at home by themselves, compared to only 8 per cent of men.
“In fact, women feel more at risk in all situations we surveyed including walking alone, being out with friends at night and using public transport.
“But the gap between how safe women feel compared to men is biggest when it comes to exercising alone, catching a taxi and being at home by themselves.
“There are obviously safety measures that individuals can take with regards to home security, but these figures show safety is also a major issue for women out and about in our community. We are currently exploring a number of technology based personal safety solutions that will aim to help reduce people’s fears when away from home,” said Mr Nottage.
Chief Executive of YWCA of Adelaide**, Liz Forsyth, says young women report similar feelings to YWCA, particularly regarding the use of taxis and exercising alone.
“We currently have a number of projects to address the safety of women in public places including Driving a Different Conversation. This male-led community safety project aims to increase positive bystander behaviour and promote male champions in this area,” said Ms Forsyth.
How to feel safer at home alone:
• Place sensors lights around your home
• Keep doors and windows locked or secured – use a safety screen door or lock windows if you want fresh air
• Fit a security chain to your door
• Don’t open the door to strangers and always verify the identity of tradespersons
• Consider a personal alert system if you feel vulnerable or at risk
• Install a monitored house alarm and consider CCTV
• Get a dog
• Invite friends or family over to keep you company
*Read the full RAA Safety Report 2014 at raa.com.au/safetyreport
**www.ywca.com.au
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