NEW YORK — How do husbands and wives keep themselves busy when their spouse leaves the house? It turns out one in three married Americans will just talk to themselves when their partner isn’t home.
That’s according to a recent survey, which asked 2,000 married homeowners over the age of 35 about how they make the most of their alone time. Two-thirds will take advantage of their partner’s absence to binge-watch movies or TV shows that the latter dislikes.
Another 34 percent cook or bake recipes their significant other doesn’t like and the same number of respondents will have conversations with either themselves or their pet. While some relish their “home alone” habits, 56 percent worry about whether or not they forgot to lock the doors and shut the windows as they’re getting ready to fall asleep.
Better safe than sorry
Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Ring, the survey also found that the vast majority of homeowners (87%) generally feel informed about their neighborhood’s safety. That may be why people’s nighttime concerns are more about their to-do lists and upcoming deadlines (35%) rather than what happens in their neighborhood while they’re asleep (25%).
Regardless of whether their partner is at home or away, nearly half the poll say they’re usually not bothered by mysterious noises at night because they assume they’re harmless. For those who do wake up after hearing something, they either check out the noise themselves (61%), ask their partner to check it out (32%), or check their alarm system (32%). Although 52 percent described their neighborhood as “very safe,” 78 percent still use a peephole or doorbell camera to check who’s arrived.
While many respondents reported their security cameras catching unexpected critters — from raccoons raiding trash to deer stealing kids’ carved pumpkins — and embarrassing slips, trips and mishaps, some reported catching intruder break-ins, porch pirates, and even a neighbor stealing trash.
Tech is improving our sense of security
Ninety-seven percent feel that it’s important to know that their home and belongings are safe when they’re away. Perhaps that’s why more than half of respondents feel the most valuable part of their home security system is being able to check security cameras when home or away, and why 59 percent check their home security systems at least once a day.
“Tech has made it simpler for homeowners to be proactive about their home security and safety,” according to a spokesperson for Ring in a statement. “In addition to alarms and cameras, other smart devices can help detect carbon monoxide or water leaks when people are away, keeping pets and belongings safe.”
As it turns out, neighborhood apps aren’t just for local banter — more than two-thirds say these platforms make them feel safer at home. Another 77 percent feel that technology such as apps make home security easier and more accessible.
“When communities come together, safer neighborhoods become a reality. Apps are a great way to not only stay connected with your neighbors but also get important safety updates from local police and fire departments,” the Ring spokesperson adds.
