Stalking Prevention and Home Security for Women | By Jordan Frankel

From ex-boyfriends to complete strangers, being the target of a stalker can quickly turn a woman’s life into a nightmare, underscoring the importance of stalking prevention and home security. Such was the case for a young woman who declined a date with a man.

According to a Washington Post article, the man began harassing the woman with repeated phone calls, which escalated to threatening texts and letters. This behavior continued for over five years, despite her reaching out to the police 125 times. Tragically, it wasn’t until he attacked and stabbed her one evening that the justice system intervened. The stalker received a life sentence, but the woman continues to suffer daily from the trauma of her experience.

This story highlights how relentless and terrifying stalking can be. For many women, stalkers instill a fear so intense that their homes—traditionally safe havens—no longer feel secure. If you are struggling to feel safe in your home due to the actions of a stalker, understanding stalking prevention and home security is essential. This article explores stalking statistics, U.S. laws, and actionable home security advice to help you regain your peace of mind.

Stalking Statistics in the United States

Stalking is a pervasive issue in the U.S., particularly for women. According to Merriam-Webster, stalking is defined as “the act or crime of willfully and repeatedly following or harassing another person in circumstances that would cause a reasonable person to fear injury or death, especially because of express or implied threats.”

The Bureau of Justice Statistics provides a sobering look at stalking in the U.S.:

• Women are significantly more likely to be stalked than men.
• Divorced or separated women face the highest risk of being stalked.
• Around 50% of stalking victims receive unwanted contact at least once a week.
• Approximately 11% of stalking cases last five years or more.
• 62% of women who are stalked are targeted by a current or former intimate partner.

These statistics highlight the importance of combining stalking prevention and home security measures to safeguard against potential threats.

U.S. Stalking Laws: Challenges and Protections

Despite the seriousness of stalking, not all U.S. states provide sufficient legal protections for victims. Victims are often required to prove a pattern of threatening or harassing behavior to obtain a restraining order. Unfortunately, stalkers who are adept at avoiding detection can make this difficult.

As in the story mentioned earlier, it is not uncommon for law enforcement to take action only after a stalker escalates to violence. The delay in intervention often leaves victims feeling vulnerable and unsupported.

While laws vary by state, it’s crucial for victims to document every interaction with their stalker. This evidence is often key to obtaining legal protections and ensuring law enforcement takes appropriate action.

Effective Stalking Prevention and Home Security Measures

If you are the target of a stalker, prioritizing your safety is paramount. Below are actionable stalking prevention and home security tips recommended by security expert Jordan Frankel.

1. Reinforce Entry Doors and Windows

Your home’s entry points—doors and windows—are often its most vulnerable areas. Strengthening them can significantly reduce the risk of forced entry.

• Install a Security Door Brace: Devices like the OnGARD Security Door Brace can make it nearly impossible for a stalker to kick in or force open your doors.
• Apply Window Security Film: Products like BurglarGARD glass security film create an invisible barrier, making it extremely difficult to break through windows or sliding glass doors.
• Reinforce Hinges and Deadbolts: Use 3-inch screws for door hinges and install heavy-duty deadbolts for added protection.

2. Obtain a Restraining Order

A restraining order prohibits your stalker from contacting you or coming within a specified distance of you, your home, or your workplace.

While a restraining order does not physically prevent contact, it gives law enforcement grounds to arrest the stalker if they violate the order. Be sure to document any violations as evidence for future legal action.

3. Document Every Interaction

The burden of proof in stalking cases often falls on the victim. To build a strong case:

• Save all text messages, emails, and social media posts.
• Record threatening voicemails and keep a detailed log of any interactions.
• Report each incident to the police so there is an official record.

This documentation can be invaluable when pursuing legal action or applying for a restraining order.

4. Upgrade Your Home Security System

A robust home security system is essential for victims of stalking. Look for systems that include:

• Motion-activated cameras with night vision.
• Door and window sensors that trigger alarms when tampered with.
• A monitoring service that alerts law enforcement if the alarm is activated.

5. Install Outdoor Lighting

Predators often exploit darkness to approach unnoticed. Adding motion-activated outdoor lighting around entry points and walkways can deter unwanted visitors.

6. Be Mindful of Your Digital Footprint

Many stalkers use online platforms to gather information about their victims. To protect yourself:

• Adjust privacy settings on social media accounts.
• Avoid sharing personal information, such as your location or daily routines.
• Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.

Benefits of Proactive Stalking Prevention and Home Security

Taking proactive steps to secure your home and personal safety has immediate and long-term benefits. Strengthening your home against intruders not only reduces your risk of harm but also restores your sense of security.

Moreover, implementing stalking prevention and home security measures can empower you to take control of your situation. Many victims of stalking report feeling helpless, but taking actionable steps—like reinforcing doors or installing a security system—can provide a sense of agency and confidence.

A Call to Action: Don’t Wait to Protect Yourself

Stalkers instill fear and uncertainty, making it difficult for victims to feel safe even in their own homes. However, with the right combination of stalking prevention and home security strategies, you can protect yourself and regain control of your life.

If you suspect someone is stalking you, take immediate steps to safeguard your home and document their behavior. Consult with law enforcement, a legal professional, or a home security expert to address your specific needs. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own space—don’t let a stalker take that away from you.