I have often wondered how I would act/react if someone tried to break into the house now that I'm on my own and have the responsibility of protecting the children (since they are here most nights).  I put a phone in my bedroom.  I don't want any guns in the house, but what do I do, grab the nearest vase and throw it?  I think the best protection I've got is Trixie the dog (for now) though she's been acting really badly lately and may have to go back to the humane society.  I think living on a busy corner is actually a good thing - the restaurant next door is open late every night, and there are lots of street lights and passing cars.  I don't know, there are so many things to get used to when you are a woman living alone.