Every woman has her own degree of independence. Some women refuse help at every turn and some will accept any help offered. There’s nothing wrong with either choice, but there are times you may have a problem you can’t solve.
A single woman has a lot of freedom, but with that comes more responsibility. There is no one to help when the drain gets clogged or the heater goes on the fritz. If they are lucky, they may have a neighbor or a father to help them out. If not, they have to wing it on their own.
Some women are undaunted by this, while others are petrified. Rest assured, a professional can fix most problems. Even better, there are some things you can have in your home to help you out so you don’t need to pick up the phone and ask for help in every situation.
Here are some things no woman should be without, single or not.
Tool Kit
Have a basic tool kit handy. It doesn’t have to be big and cumbersome. Choose a small kit you can store in a closet or under your bed. Some tools you should have are a hammer, screwdrivers (both flathead and Phillips-head), nails and screws, an adjustable wrench, socket set, Allen wrenches, pliers, wire cutter, measuring tape, and a small level.
These tools can help with a large variety of projects. You can hang pictures and shelves, tighten loose screws, hook up a speaker system or put together furniture.
Stepladder
A small, yet sturdy stepladder is always a good idea. These can be used to reach high places in your home to clean, change light bulbs or to retrieve items you have on higher shelves. A chair can be used for these things, but a ladder is a safer idea.
Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is a great idea for whatever may happen. The unknown is always scary, but if you have supplies you may be less scared and less likely to run outside in the middle of an emergency or severe weather event.
Some suggestions for a kit would be warm blankets, candles, batteries, battery-powered radio, bottled water, canned food, can opener, matches or lighter, change of clothes, and medications.
For Your Car
This isn’t technically for your home, but you need it anyway. Have an emergency kit in your car, along with some basic supplies for simple car problems. Have jumper cables, spare tire (in good condition), jack, gas can, and a bag of cat litter.
Plumbing
Keep some Draino (or clog remover of your choice) on hand at all times. Every sink gets clogged occasionally, and a good liquid clog remover is an essential. Don’t forget to have a plunger as well.
Fire Extinguisher
You should have fire extinguishers in almost every room of your home or apartment. They should be in easy reach and in good working order. You must also know how to use one. Take some time to read the instructions and, if you can, give it a trail run.
Detectors
Have smoke detectors in each room for early warning of fire. Carbon monoxide detectors are also a great idea. These detect harmful gases that may be coming into your home. Quite often these gases are odorless and can make you very sick.
Phone Numbers
There are some things you just can’t fix on your own. Have a list of plumbers, electricians, and a good contractor on hand for those times.
Final Thoughts
You won’t be able to solve every problem on your own, but there are things you can do to save yourself money and a giant headache. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of trial and error. No matter what your situation, taking care of things on your own feels really good.
