Why Women Living Alone Should Wait Before Turning on Lights at Home
September 17, 2023
source: TikTok/@heyitsmaryalice
In the age of social media, where influencers and content creators reign supreme, it’s not uncommon for us to stumble upon advice and life hacks from various sources. TikTok, in particular, has become a treasure trove of valuable insights. Recently, TikToker @heyitsmaryalice shared a unique piece of advice that could make a significant difference in the safety of women living alone. She explained why, when returning home at night, it’s a good idea to refrain from immediately turning on the lights inside your apartment. Let’s delve deeper into this piece of advice and understand why it resonates with so many women.
Mary Alice’s TikTok video, which has garnered thousands of views and shares, emphasizes a simple yet crucial point: your home should be a sanctuary, a place where you feel safe and secure. However, as she pointed out, it’s essential to be cautious, especially when arriving home after dark.
The rationale behind this advice is quite straightforward. When you arrive home and immediately turn on the lights, especially if your windows are visible from the street, you inadvertently reveal to potential onlookers which apartment you live in. This seemingly innocent act can have far-reaching consequences, particularly if someone with ill intentions is following you.
Mary Alice shared a chilling personal experience to drive home this point. She recounted a night when she felt she was being followed by a man as she made her way home. Instead of panicking and turning on the lights as soon as she entered her apartment, she kept them off. This simple decision, as it turns out, might have been a lifesaver. The man outside couldn’t determine which apartment she had entered, making it impossible for him to target her further.
This narrative struck a chord with many women who had experienced similar situations. The comments section of Mary Alice’s video is filled with stories of women sharing their own encounters with suspicious individuals while coming home after dark. Many expressed gratitude for the advice, vowing to implement this safety measure in their daily routines.
While this advice might sound unconventional, it underscores the importance of situational awareness and taking proactive steps to protect oneself, especially in vulnerable situations. Here are a few key takeaways:
Stay aware: It’s crucial to stay alert and attuned to your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Trust your instincts and take action if you feel threatened.
Delay the lights: As Mary Alice suggests, resist the urge to flip the light switch immediately upon entering your home. This simple act can add an extra layer of security.
Have a plan: Consider having a safety plan in place for various scenarios, including what to do if you suspect you’re being followed. Share your plan with a trusted friend or family member.
Self-defense: Learn basic self-defense techniques to help protect yourself in case of an emergency. Many communities offer self-defense classes for free or at a low cost.
While Mary Alice’s advice may seem unconventional, it reminds us that personal safety should always be a priority, especially for women living alone. In an era where information is readily shared on platforms like TikTok, valuable insights like these can make a significant difference in our lives. So, the next time you arrive home after dark, consider staying in the dark for a moment, and remember that your safety matters above all else.
