How to Survive a Home Invasion

The best defense against home invasion is always prevention. Strong, working locks, well-lit homes and a monitored home security system are the best deterrents against burglars. However, if for some reason your home security is breached and someone has broken in, what you choose to do once your home has been invaded could save your life.

Just like good home security and emergency preparedness plans, you should also plan with your family for what might happen if your home is invaded while you and your family are present.

Your plan should include teaching children how to call 911 and then what to say when they contact a dispatcher. A home invasion will no doubt be frightening for kids, but teaching them about what to expect can help them remain calmer.

It should also include knowing your home security system in case someone breaks in. Make sure the entire family knows where the panic button is—whoever is nearest the panic button should press it immediately upon an invasion. And remember to designate a neighbor or neighbors to go to if a family member can escape, so the remaining members know where to find him or her.

Home invasion is something we hope you’ll never have to face, but if you do, you and your family should know the different options that could help get you out unharmed:

Escaping immediately, saving yourself—This could potentially decrease the time a burglar spends in the home, knowing their anonymity will soon be gone. It may be difficult to leave your family, but it could also be the best way to get immediate help.

Resisting, fighting and screaming—If neighbors are close by, screaming and yelling could attract their attention. Fighting is not recommended, but if you must fight, make forceful hits to the face, throat or groin area or consider using household items such as cleaners or other chemicals to inflict pain and give yourself a small window of time to escape and call for help. Never try to fight if you’re physically incapable and don’t stay to fight once you’ve gotten away—stay away and call for help.

Complying with burglars—This can sometimes allow you to think about possible escape opportunities. However, experts recommend not complying with being tied up or restrained in any way.

Using a weapon against an armed intruder—Using a weapon should ALWAYS be your last resort in a home invasion. The use of firearms can often work against the victim because most burglars typically have nothing to lose and may also be armed. On the rare occasion you have access to a loaded gun, you should be properly licensed and trained to use it in order to effectively defend yourself.
 

• Tweet