DIY Home Safety and Security Measures for Domestic Violence Survivors

By: Nora Hood – Confluence Daily is your daily news source for women in the know.

Domestic Violence: The Numbers and Effects

Domestic violence is one of the most pervasive problems in the world. In the United States alone, three women a day are murdered by a current or former male partner. An estimated 38 million women have experienced physical intimate partner violence at some point in their lifetimes. Around the world, 70 percent of women will experience physical and/or sexual abuse by an intimate partner during their lifetimes. And it’s not just women as men experience domestic violence, as well. Fifteen percent of people who experience domestic abuse are men, and 1 in 7 men will be victims of severe violence by an intimate partner in their lifetimes.

Domestic abuse is a term that encompasses a range of destructive behaviors:

• Physical abuse including hitting, kicking, and denying medical care.
  
• Sexual abuse including marital rape attacks and treating a partner in a sexually demeaning manner.
  
• Emotional abuse that undermines an individual’s sense of self-worth and/or self-esteem.
  
• Economic abuse including maintaining total control over financial resources and withholding one’s access to money.
  
• Psychological abuse including threats, intimidation, gaslighting, forced isolation and destruction of pets or property.

Domestic violence has serious implications and damages can be long-lasting. The psychological and emotional wounds people sustain can prevent them from being able to live their normal lives. They experience debilitating feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, anger, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Home Security for Domestic Abuse Survivors

One way to recover from domestic violence is to restore a sense of security. For many, that includes making modifications around the house for safety. Today’s home security systems are far more advanced, and homeowners can now choose from a wide range of security options, such as around-the-clock monitoring and video surveillance. The average cost runs around $739 for an alarm system installation, with many jobs falling in the $600 to $850 range.

While not everyone can afford a high-end security system, it is possible to reclaim one’s sense of safety within a budget. There are other low-cost modifications one can make themselves to help secure the home. Try the following DIY projects to start reclaiming your sense of safety.

• Install extra locks to doors and add brass chain door fasteners on the inside to use when you are home.
  
• Security cameras aren’t just for the rich and powerful. You can add your own DIY security systems to your home for as little as $40 a camera.
  
• Change door hinges to the interior, as exterior door hinges can be removed as a way for an intruder to gain access.
  
• Install automatic timers on your home’s lights to turn on and off throughout the day, giving a false impression that someone is around.
  
• Invest in a glass breakage detector that can alert the frequency of breaking glass.
  
• Imply that you have a functional alarm system with a yard sign.
  
• If your doors are made of plywood or hollow wood, change them out for solid wood or metal that is harder for someone to break through.
  
• Consider adopting a dog that will help protect you. Security dogs don’t just protect their owners from potential threats, but also provide love and emotional support that help promote feelings of safety.

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Domestic abuse is a problem that affects both women and men all over the world. There are many types of domestic abuse, but they all leave long-lasting and damaging effects. Domestic violence survivors are often plagued with feelings of fear and insecurity. While there are many things survivors should do to recover, one important step, in particular, is investing in home security. Not everyone can afford a professional security system, but fortunately, there are DIY measures one can take to help deter intruders and reinstate feelings of safety within the home.

More by Nora:

Domestic Violence: How To Help Someone You Care About