There’s a reason why so many Hollywood horror films revolve around home invasions. A scary scenario that no one wants to encounter is waking up in the middle of the night to discover that a stranger has broken into their house, but it is sadly more likely than you think.
According to the National Crime Victimization Survey’s updated 2016 report on criminal victimization, there were 2.04 million registered home burglaries victims in 2016. While this is a decline from the previous year, when 2.18 people were victimized in the same way, the possibility of a home invasion remains a worry for most adults.
It’s a risky situation to be in, one that can quickly spiral out of control. It’s important to know that getting your home insured will keep you on a safer side, and getting the best insurance company will secure your home better. You should compare landlord insurance policy reviewsto get the best option for your home.
A home invasion does not have to escalate into a war. Here are some things you can do to keep yourself safe.
1. Verify their existence right away.
Since time is of the essence, search as soon as possible. Take a deep breath, listen carefully, or search your phone for a security camera or video doorbell warnings.
Compare the sounds of footsteps, broken glass, opening doors, and shuffling items and furniture to those of pet movements and regular plumbing sounds. Consider checking Britainreviews.co.ukfor helpful tips.
2. Maintain your composure.
It’s normal for your adrenaline to spike and your heart rate to increase when you’re in a scary situation. Relax the mind and body with a few deep breaths before deciding what to do next.
If you don’t have tactical experience in high-intensity situations, don’t grab a weapon—weapons like firearms can sometimes make it more dangerous rather than safer, particularly if you don’t have specialized training.
3. Check to see if you’ll be able to get away.
If you confirm that someone is in your house, or if you still have suspicions after pausing, find a way out as soon as possible. If you can’t get away, look for windows from which you can easily escape or places to hide. Now is the time to use your fire escape ladder if you have one.
4. If you can’t get away, stay put.
Lock yourself in a bathroom, bedroom, or even a closet if the attacker is between you and your exterior doors and you can’t climb out a window. Close the door and barricade itif necessary.
5. Make a police report.
Call 911 for assistance whether you’re fleeing or hiding. To ensure the dispatchers can hear you, keep your voice quiet and talk slowly.
6. Keep quiet and follow the directions.
Although the majority of intrusions are not violent, it is not worth the risk of being discovered. If the dispatcher asks you a question or sends you directions while you’re on the phone, remain silent. Quietly and succinctly react.
7. Take notes afterwards.
If you’re in a position to see the intruder, take notes on everything. If they manage to flee before the cops arrive, you’ll need to be able to provide a thorough account of their weight, gender, height, clothing, cars, and travel route.
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It would be easier for police to track down the intruder and deter them from attacking other people’s homes. You’ll also want to make a complete list of everything that was broken or taken so you can file a police report and begin the process of recovering from the break-in.
A break-in can be a frightening and stressful experience, but with a bit of planning ahead of time, you can avoid a break-in and remain calm if one occurs. Take some time to inspect and strengthen your home’s protection, and practice your break-in protocol, just as you would for a fire or earthquake drill.