Feeling nervous

I have been on my own for around 20 years, since my sons became independent home-owners.
I don't put the door chain on overnight as it would prevent the emergency services getting access if I had a fall or set the house on fire (unlikely). It's another matter when I open the door to a stranger. I deploy the chain and look through the 'fish eye' to see if I recognise them. Otherwise, I am satisfied that my doors and windows are secure and my alarm has recently been serviced. On my mantelpiece I have a prominently displayed photograph of DS in police officer's uniform!

Yorkshire that's really very good!
Here is a shorter version ( not mine own)

Things that go bump in the night
Should not really give one a fright,
It's the hole in each ear that lets in the fear,
That, and the absence of light!

Sunseeker Do you have a television in your bedroom? If not, get one that has a timer on it. This function means that the tv can be set to turn off, say, one hour after you go to bed.
Years ago I found that having a dog was the worst thing I could have done because he barked at every single sound.

In the West Midlands the Fire Service will come round and do a thorough home safety check, all aspects, not only fire related. Very friendly and helpful.

I meant to add that the Fire Service check may be available in other areas.

In Essex, I believe both the Police and fire service will offer home advisory visits. Your can also get a visit from the falls advisory service regarding safety in and around the home. The fire service replaced all our old smoke alarms for free.

It is a shame you're not a dog person as that is an obvious solution. They alert you straight away to anything untoward.

My widowed friend, not a dog person either, has a pair of big boots, a man's jacket and a dog lead hanging in her porch. Anorher elderly person I know who's given up driving encourages her neighbour to park his car on her drive. She says it helps him out, as off street parking is a problem where she lives, and it makes her feel safer.

As others have said, it is highly unlikely you will be burgled. I believe burglaries have decreased dramatically at the same time as online crime increasing.

However, as you are worried, would it help to have a lock on your own bedroom door and to make sure that you always have a torch and your mobile phone next to you when you go to bed?

I think leaving the radio on downstairs is a good idea too, and, if you are able, having a dog.

Our dog is not at all aggressive but on one occasion for sure and maybe on others his barking has warded off burglars.