You may not realize it, but some of your habits may put your safety in jeopardy. These eight dangerous habits have been known to lead to accidents or to make people easy targets for criminals. Are your habits putting you in danger?

Your Daily Routine

People often become creatures of habit over time without even realizing it. While having a routine makes life more manageable, it also makes you a prime target for criminals. You should try to mix up your routine every week. Even if you have the same schedule, try to incorporate some variation such as alternating your departure time and driving route to work.

Seatbelts

It is easy to get into the habit of not using your seatbelt. Whether you are in the front seat or the back seat, you should always wear your seat belt. If you are the driver, it is your responsibility to ensure everyone else follows suit regardless of their age.

Smoke Detectors

One of the greatest irritants in life is the smoke detector making that beeping noise every few seconds as you are trying to fall asleep. Most people will begrudgingly get up, remove the batteries and go back to sleep without ever replacing the batteries. Always remember to replace the batteries in the smoke detector at all times whether they are dead or you use them for another use in the house.

Driving and…

In most states and countries, it is actually illegal to conduct any sort of multitasking as you drive. One of the most dangerous habits of people driving is to eat and drink, any beverage, while driving. The moment you drop or drip something in your lap, your eyes divert and a dangerous situation is created instantaneously. Even more dangerous is people who text, read or watch movies while they drive.

Listening to Music

Listening to music while walking is standard for most people today. The danger is when you listen to your music too loudly. Criminals seek opportunities of convenience and if you cannot hear people following you, you will become a target.

Parking Away from Other Vehicles

Some people are extremely particular about their vehicles and the thought of someone scratching their car is an absolute nightmare. If you park far away from other vehicles to prevent such scratches in parking garages or poorly lit areas, you are putting your safety in jeopardy.

Automatic Timers

Automatic timers are a great safety feature in a home most of the time. Any burglar who is interested in a home will watch it for several nights to learn of routines; therefore, if you have a number of different timers or if you are able to set your timer for a different time each night to break the routine, it is even better.

Driving with Unlocked Doors

It may be unlikely that you will be a victim of a carjacking, however you can decrease the chances by ensuring your doors are locked the moment you enter your vehicle. You should also try to avoid leaving your windows down at stoplights and stop signs.

It is easy to fall into a routine and to develop habits of which you are completely unaware may be putting your safety in harm’s way. If you follow these eight tips, you will increase your safety immensely.