A home invasion is one of the scariest crimes. Not only can it result in serious financial loss, a home invasion can also leave you afraid to sleep and constantly hearing noises at night. Plus, home invasions can turn violent quickly, even if that wasn’t the original intent of the thief. While it’s always traumatizing to be robbed, it is far better for it to happen when no one is home to get hurt. Whether you rent or own your home, have kids or live alone, you should be prepared for this possibility.

If you want to survive a home invasion, there are two steps you absolutely must take before the break-in happens. First, protect your home. By far the best way to increase your odds of surviving a home invasion is to make it harder for the criminal to get in. Door and window alarms, motion detectors, and outdoor surveillance cameras are just some of the ways you can make your home unattractive to thieves.

Second, be prepared to protect your personal safety. Devices like stun guns and pepper spray are the perfect choice for those who do not feel comfortable keeping a handgun by their bed for personal protection. Know where your self defense product is at all times, and have experience using the device so that you’ll be able to use it if you must.

If you have just heard a window break, or have come face-to-face with an intruder, what can you do? Here’s how to get out of such a scary situation alive:

1) Do not confront the attacker or investigate strange noises. If they have not seen you yet, make sure they do not. Surprising a criminal can make them turn violent. Do not try to fight a criminal for your possessions – doing so is not worth the risk to your safety. Quietly hide in the furthest corner of the home until you know it’s safe to come out, or leave the home if you are able. If you must engage with the criminal, listen to their demands and do not try to fight back unless your personal safety is being threatened.

2) Alert the authorities. If you suspect that someone has broken in, or is trying to break in, call 911 immediately. Do not investigate strange noises or try to handle the situation yourself. Even if you think you’re strong enough to defeat a burglar, do not play the hero. 911 is your lifeline in a situation that could turn violent in seconds. If you have door or window alarms, activate them if it is safe for you to do so.

3) If you must confront an attacker, be ready. If you can get to your pepper spray or stun gun, have it out and ready to use. If not, find anything close to you that you can use to protect yourself. Always remember, do not approach the burglar- you should only fight back physically if they have seen you and your safety is being threatened.

4) Above all, stay calm. Focus on your breathing to avoid making rash decisions that could seriously harm you. If you have kids, remember that they will be looking towards you for guidance. If you can, gather them together so that you can act as a family. Try to keep your mind clear so that you can look for opportunities to get away or defend yourself.

Statistically, most home invasions happen when you are away during the day, because the thieves have more time to make off with your belongings without the risk of being caught. Still, you must be prepared for the possibility that someone could break in while you’re sitting on the couch watching TV, or upstairs sound asleep. It can happen even in the safest neighborhoods.

Author Bio: Resist Attack has a full range of TASER devices to keep you and your family safe. Also check for current specials on a wireless hidden camera

Category: Advice
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