5 Things Every True Crime Addict Buys To Protect Themselves From Serial Killers

Every true crime lover knows that familiar thought that takes over after finishing a new podcast episode or documentary: Would I be able to protect myself if that happened to me?! And as any true crime fan knows, locking your doors just isn’t enough—especially not in modern day. Whether it’s for your car, home, or even yourself, these are the things that every true crime addict has to have on hand…just in case a serial killer picks them as their next target.

1. Pepper spray

Grabbing a little bottle of pepper spray is something that most people who are into self-defense will first look for when they decide they need to be more serious about protecting themselves. It’s legal to carry in many areas, and provides a self-defense method that won’t seriously injure anyone in the long-term, making it a whole lot more palatable to most. It’s also cheap and easy to keep on hand.

2. Alarm system

A home alarm system is the bread and butter of anyone who’s been busy listening to home break-in cases. Whether you opt for a formal alarm company or an alarm app, there’s a certain peace of mind that comes with being able to guarantee nobody entered your home while you were away. True crime fans know that adding several layers of home security devices is important, and an alarm system is something you just can’t skimp on if you have a secret fear that a serial killer is going to drop by sometime.

3. Home security cameras

Home security that actually lets you see what’s going on in every room of your home? Yes, please. No more ‘bump in the night’ type noises that leave you tiptoeing downstairs with a bat and a flashlight — security cameras have only been getting more and more affordable these days, giving everyone an opportunity to check in on their front yard (and front entrance, back door, living room…) without ever having to leave their home. Plus, you can record any incidents that happen around your home, giving you extra protection. 

4. Security stick

A security stick is a must-have for any true crime fan. It adds an extra layer of security that’s a whole lot harder to break than just picking a lock, and anyone attempting to get past a security stick or door jamb will undoubtedly wake you and any other home residents up right away, giving you ample time to call for help. 

5. Apple tag or personal tracker

For a true crime lover, an Apple tag isn’t just about keeping track of your personal belongings — it’s more about giving other people the ability to keep track of you and your vehicle. A paranoid true crime fan will probably have an Apple tag (or two) in their car so that their loved ones can easily find it if their vehicle is abandoned. Apple tags are also easy and inconspicuous when carried on your person; there are so many different forms of personal trackers that true crime fans are obsessed with, from hidden tracking necklaces that you can turn on in an emergency to phone apps that tell the police of your location if you don’t check in regularly.