| In correlation with the increasing number
of home businesses, home invasions and daytime robberies are on the rise too. The six
o'clock news oftentimes highlights stories of elderly people being threatened and taken
advantage of in the comfort of their home; the one place they should always be safe - and
that should never change.
Being home based can bring forth unforeseen security
concerns, especially if you plan to work alone. Statistically, a person is more likely to
die of a heart disease, cancer, or some other form of illness, instead of an act of
violence, but taking added precautions will help cover those unforeseen incidents.
Covered below are a few tips and strategies to keep you and
your workplace free of incident. To help protect you while running your business, the
following tips are excerpted from Starting a Home- or Office-based Résumé Business:
Pepper spray
Strategically place pepper spray containers throughout your
office. Caution: If you have children, this may not be an option for you. Pepper spray
containers do have a security flap; however, a small child may get by this safety feature.
Shop around and possibly contact your local sheriff's department to inquire about the
latest and most safety-conscious devices available to consumers.
Surveillance system
A surveillance system is no longer an expensive alternative
when it comes to home safety. Reasonable units are now available at local department and
office supply stores, and the instructions are minimal for someone with general
installation capabilities.
This security measure may not be practical for your set up,
but will be determined by the location of your office and where you intend to meet
clients. If you meet clients at your dining room table, where your family meets every day
for dinner for instance, it may be an impractical location for cameras.
To avoid running cables throughout your home or office,
purchase fake cameras that look authentic. In addition, post security system stickers on
doors and windows, giving the appearance that a security system is present (when a system
may not be in place) to deter potential robbers and ill-willed individuals.
Pets
An aggressive dog can be a huge asset when you want that
added bit of security for a home-based business. Ensure your pet is confined, but within
an easily accessible area (e.g., behind a closed door or baby gate).
Studies have shown that burglars fear pets in homes,
sometimes more than security systems. Owning a pet that will bark and growl at
individuals, yet worship the ground you walk on, can be your best defense against an
unruly or rude client.
Self-defense class
Taking a self-defense class can be beneficial throughout
your entire life, not just while running your business. Protecting yourself with proven
fight maneuvers against attackers is applicable in your office, on the street, or any
other vulnerable moment. By arming yourself with self-protection capabilities, you will be
able to quickly and effectively handle unforeseen acts of violence.
Am you really at risk for an attack? There have been only
two or three accounts of résumé writers being attacked or harassed over the last several
years - enough reports to make it a necessary topic. If you plan to meet strangers
(clients) in your home, then you must protect yourself from the unknown.
Noise
By playing a radio in another room, you'll be giving the
impression that someone else is in the home. When asked if you are alone, never say yes.
State you have a brother visiting from Florida or your husband is in a back room working
on a project.
The tactics listed above may not be concrete solutions for
your situation so review these options and utilize the best security measure for your
circumstances. You may never need to utilize these measures; however, don't take a passive
stance against protection. |