Safety tips for women living alone in India

Living alone is really amazing. It teaches you to be self sufficient, independent and crafty. But as a woman you really have to keep your guards up against unwanted attention. Here's some of the tips that I have learned through my own and my friend's experiences that has made living alone a bit simpler.

1. Live in a gated society that has 24/7 security guards and restricted entry and
if there are no security guards, make sure there are CCTV cameras at the gate, in corridors, and on every floor.

2. Never provide your flat number when ordering for stuff that comes in one day or 15 mins. Always go down and collect your order.

3. If possible, then order stuff at your office instead of your place of residence. This is doubly helpful because there is always someone to collect your orders if you aren't present. Can't do the same when living at your place

4. Always keep someone in loop whenever you go somewhere.

5. Keep your main door locked even if you are going to the terrace, corridor or taking to your neighbours.

6. Never let any man know where you live unless you really really trust him. Take your time when trusting people.

7. If you are calling a handyman to repair your stuff then schedule it around a time when your friends are at your place

8. Keep a pair of men's shoes outside or if you don't have one then keep unisex sport shoes.

9. Never open the door unless you invited someone. Anyone else who comes can call your cell and if they don't have your cell then you don't need to see this person. And even then, check via peephole who's outside. No peephole? Get one installed.

10. Talk with your neighbours within the building and outside it.

11. Share your house keys with one trusted friend.

12. Remember some of your emergency contacts by heart. Don't depend on your phone to remember someone's contact info.

13. Give yourself a curfew time. Always be back home before that time. If you can't make it before that time then stay at your friend's place.

14. Do not use uber or rapido bikes, use cabs or autos no matter how expensive it is compared to the bikes.

15. Always keep your phone and other electronics charged. Have a power bank handy.

16. If your gut says not to do something, then don't do it. Us women have always sensed danger before anyone else. Don't try to be a good and polite girl. If it feels off then it is off. Trust you instincts. Always.

What tips do you follow? Let me know!