Many adults can remember being able to play outside until after dark with no worries of being harmed. Some of us may even remember a time of living on the wild side and not locking the door at night. Sadly, those times have come and gone. In a world of increased drug use, irresponsible behavior and a desperate economy, that overwhelming sense of safety has waned.
Many individuals and families alike have gone over what to do in case of fire, tornado or earthquake. Have you ever considered what you will do in case of a home invasion? Do your children know what to do to protect themselves? Beyond the obvious, I would like to share some tips my family has practiced, so that in the unlikely event your home is breached, you won't be a victim.
Talk About It
One of the best ways to not be caught by surprise during a home invasion, is to talk it out with your family, or if you live alone, a friend or loved one. Listen to each other and work out a good strategy for a couple of scenarios. Who will call 911? Where will you hide? Will you exit the home and meet in a secret location?
Consider creating an audible signal, whether it is an alarm that can easily be set or a verbal command. If someone comes in quietly, and you are the first to confront them, you want to be able to warn others that there is a problem.
Don't Count on Being a Hero
We would all, especially the men of the house, like to think that we would be able to protect our loved ones from attack at all costs. While I share that passion, I don't let the thought give me false hope. If someone were to break into your home, your first instinct should be to hide yourself and your family in as safe a location as possible while you wait for the police to arrive.
While it is not always the case, you should consider all intruders armed to ere on the side of caution. Depending on your comfort level and local laws, you may or may not be able to provide sufficient protection in a face-to-face confrontation. Avoid this if at all possible. Teach your children this point as well, let them know that if you are struggling with an intruder, the best thing they can do to help you is to call the police and keep themselves safe.
Have Defenses Readily Available
Many people have begun to disconnect home phones, carrying only cell phones. While having a handy charging station in your kitchen might seem more practical, how will you use it if you are being forced to hide in the bathroom? Instead of having a handy catch-all basket by the door, consider placing it at your bedside or in the nearest closet or bathroom. This way, if you hear an intruder, you can grab your phone keys and wallet on your way to your hiding spot. Call 911, push the alarm button on your car and wait for help to arrive.
If you are in a house with a weapon, such as a gun, have that weapon close to this area as well. It is extremely important to keep guns out of the reach of children; however, a weapon used for home protection is useless if it is out of your reach.
I pray that nothing like this ever happens to my family or yours. However, having a plan makes me feel better prepared for the "just in case."
Photo courtesy of Rosan Nepal, https://www.flickr.com/photos/deadstone/