From Travel to Home: How to Be a Safe Returner Every Time

Becoming a Safe Returner: Best Practices for Risk-Free Homecomings

Returning home—whether from a trip, work shift, or an outing—should be safe, predictable, and stress-free. This guide provides a concise, actionable set of best practices to help you become a “Safe Returner”: someone who minimizes risk and disruption when coming back to their household or community.

1. Plan ahead (before you leave)

• Route choice: Pick well-lit, populated routes and reliable transport options.
• Share your plan: Tell a trusted contact your ETA and route.
• Check alerts: Review local safety or travel advisories for your area.
• Prepare essentials: Carry a charged phone, ID, a small amount of cash, and any required medication.

2. Use transportation smartly

• Confirm bookings: Double-check rideshares, public transit schedules, or pickup times.
• Verify drivers: For rideshares, confirm the vehicle make, plate, and driver before entering.
• Sit safely: In rideshares, sit in the back seat when possible and keep doors locked.
• Avoid distractions: Keep headphones volume low to stay aware of surroundings.

3. Practice situational awareness

• Scan entry points: Observe entrances, exits, and any people nearby before approaching your door.
• Trust instincts: If something feels off, move to a safer public area and call for help.
• Keep belongings secure: Wear bags close to your body and keep valuables out of sight.

4. Secure your home entry

• Maintain lighting: Use motion-sensor or timed outdoor lights to eliminate dark approach paths.
• Check locks twice: Keep doors and windows locked; consider deadbolts or smart locks.
• Use peepholes/cameras: Verify visitors with a peephole or a doorbell camera before opening.
• Have keys ready: Avoid fumbling—retrieve keys before you reach the door to reduce exposure.

5. Re-entry routines

• Do a quick sweep: Once inside, perform a quick look around common areas before settling.
• Lock behind you: Close and lock the door immediately after entering.
• Notify household members: Send a short message or call to let others know you’re home.
• Secure packages: Move delivered items indoors or to a secure location promptly.

6. Protect digital and personal privacy

• Limit location sharing: Only enable location-sharing apps when necessary and with trusted contacts.
• Use strong passwords: Protect smart-home devices and accounts with unique, strong passwords and 2FA.
• Update devices: Keep phone and home-security firmware updated to reduce vulnerabilities.

7. Prepare for emergencies

• Have an emergency plan: Know escape routes, meeting points, and emergency contacts.
• Keep a basic kit: Store a small first-aid kit, flashlight, and phone charger near exits.
• Know local numbers: Save local emergency and non-emergency numbers on speed dial.

8. Special considerations

• For solo travelers at night: Prefer public transit hubs, well-lit streets, or trusted rides.
• For those with mobility needs: Plan accessible routes and notify helpers in advance.
• For families: Use check-ins for children and teach age-appropriate safety steps.

Quick checklist (before you enter)

• Phone charged and accessible
• Keys in hand
• Area well-lit and clear of suspicious activity
• Door/camera check completed
• Household notified

Following these best practices reduces risk and creates predictable, safer homecomings for you and those around you. Small habits—like keeping keys ready, checking your surroundings, and securing entry points—add up to a reliable safety routine.