Safety Guide for Women Moving Alone

Auto-lock entrance: A basic barrier against intruders.

Video intercom: See who's at the door before opening it.

2nd floor or higher: Ground-floor units are easier to break into.

Security cameras: Check if they cover the entrance and bike parking.

Dimple key: Harder to pick than traditional keys.

Walk the route at night: Is the path from the station well-lit? Is there foot traffic?

Nearby convenience stores or police boxes: Their presence adds safety.

Check local crime data: Osaka Prefectural Police publishes crime occurrence maps online.

Can you dry laundry out of sight?: Indoor drying space or bathroom dryers are ideal.

Is the balcony hard to access from outside?: Watch for structures that allow climbing from neighboring buildings.

Does the door have a chain lock or U-lock?

Don't use your full name on the nameplate. Last name only, or none at all.

Add a dial lock to your mailbox to prevent mail theft and identity exposure.

Hang curtains on moving day — no curtains means anyone can see inside.

Choose blackout curtains in neutral colors (beige, gray). Avoid pink or floral patterns that signal a woman lives alone.

Supplementary lock: Attach to windows or doors. Available at 100-yen shops and hardware stores.

Sensor light: Place at the entrance or balcony for deterrence.

Personal alarm: Keep on your bag for emergencies.

If possible, have a family member or friend present.

Keep valuables on your person while the door is open during loading.

Avoid unnecessarily telling the crew you live alone.

For women living alone, greeting only the building manager is perfectly fine.

There's no need to tell neighbors you live by yourself.

Check behind you before opening your door when returning home.

Schedule deliveries to a specific time. Don't answer unexpected visitors.

Use delivery lockers (宅配ボックス) when available.

Never post location-identifying photos on social media (views from your window, nearby shops, etc.).

Empty your mailbox regularly — accumulated mail signals you're away.

Shred any mail with personal information before disposing of it.

Give a spare key to someone you trust in case you're locked out.

Don't attach your key visibly to the outside of your bag (it can reveal your building and key type).