Intruder entry while you're present: A home invasion scenario
In the wake of a break-in, it's crucial to prioritize safety and take decisive action. Ensure safety by relocating to a secure location within or outside of your home if necessary. Contacting authorities promptly is crucial, as it allows law enforcement officers to conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence.
Upon contacting the police, document the scene of the break-in without touching or disturbing any potential evidence. This includes taking photographs and noting any unusual details.
Home security measures can significantly reduce the risk of burglaries. Lock all doors and windows securely using solid-core or paneled exterior doors at least 1-3/4 inches thick and quality locks. Sliding glass doors should have additional security such as window locks or bars.
Install motion-activated outdoor lighting near all entrances, garages, windows, and alleys. These lights deter intruders by illuminating dark areas immediately when motion is detected, reducing hiding spots.
Use security cameras and video doorbells to monitor activity around entry points. Video doorbells provide real-time alerts and two-way communication, which significantly reduce burglary attempts by increasing the risk that intruders will be recorded and identified.
Set up a full home security alarm system that includes sensors on doors and windows and can trigger sirens and notifications. Alarm systems deter most non-professional burglars and help you respond quickly to break-ins.
Trim bushes and trees near windows and doors to eliminate hiding places that can shield burglars. Planting thorny shrubs under windows can further discourage break-in attempts.
Post security system yard signs or window stickers, which visually warn potential intruders of a security system's presence and can deter about 83% of burglars.
Maintain clear, visible street address numbers, and secure fences or gates to help responders locate your home quickly and to limit access to your yard.
Consider keeping a barking dog, as dogs can serve as an alert system and scare away intruders.
Garage doors should be equipped with secure locking mechanisms and garage door sensors that alert to unauthorized attempts to open the door. Sliding glass doors can be secured with secondary locks or pins, and placed dowels or metal rods in the track can also prevent them from being forced open. Security bars or grilles can be installed on windows to prevent them from being forced open.
Shatter-resistant film can be applied to windows to reinforce them against breakage, providing an extra layer of protection.
When faced with the aftermath of a break-in, it's essential to take proactive steps to rebuild a sense of security and safety in your home by implementing additional security measures, such as upgrading locks or installing security cameras, to deter future break-ins.
Coping with the emotional and psychological aftermath of a break-in requires time, patience, and support from friends, family, and professionals. Acknowledge and validate your feelings in the wake of a break-in, and seek support from trusted individuals who can provide comfort and reassurance.
Reach out to local support resources for victims of burglary, such as victim advocacy organizations, counseling services, or community support groups. These resources can provide valuable assistance in navigating the challenging aftermath of a break-in.
By combining these measures, you create multiple layers of deterrence that significantly reduce the risk of burglary and enhance overall home security.
Implement security cameras and video doorbells inside and outside your home to monitor activity and deter burglaries, as they provide real-time alerts and increase the risk of intruders being identified. (Use security cameras and video doorbells)
To further strengthen home security, ensure that all doors and windows have quality locks, and sliding glass doors are equipped with additional security measures like window locks or bars. (Lock all doors and windows securely, Sliding glass doors should have additional security such as window locks or bars)
