What to do if You Are Present During a Home Security Breach

Having your home broken into is bad enough, but the scariest scenario is if you're still inside the house when it happens. Although the average burglar wants nothing more than to steal your valuables, your presence can go one of two ways. One possibility is that he gets scared and runs away. The other is that he gets startled and does something to threaten your safety. As you obviously don't want the less-favorable second option to occur, there is a certain protocol you must follow as soon as you feel that your home security system has been infiltrated.

For one, it's important that you have a plan in case this situation ever comes to pass. Also, make sure that this plan is shared with everyone in the house if you have a family. This way there is no arguing or fumbling around that could alert the intruder of where you are before you've done anything constructive.

If you can, try to get everyone into the same room and lock and barricade the door. Also, call the police from a cell phone and let them know that someone is inside your house. Also alert the policeman of your exact location in the house so they know where to find you as well as directions to your home if necessary. Let the intruder know that you have called the police and that they are on their way in an attempt to scare them off.

If you have a home alarm system, press the panic button. This is another way of dispatching help. Even if you are not absolutely sure that there is someone in your home, it's better to be safe than sorry. You will not be penalized by your home alarm company for trying to protect yourself and your family.

If you are on the first floor of your home and you are able to safely climb out a window and run to get help, do it. However, as most break-ins occur at night and many people have bedrooms on the second story, this may not be an option. Do not attempt to jump or do anything that might compromise your safety. In this event, it's a good idea to have a safe room attached to your bedroom. It could be as simple as an interior closet with a deadbolt and a door that can't be kicked down.

In the event that you do end up face to face with your intruder, it's very important that you remain calm and speak in a normal voice. Don't shout or threaten them. If possible, avoid eye contact. Do not approach them with a baseball bat, knife, firearm or any other form of weapon. Only in the event that the life of a family member or yourself is at risk should you resort to weapons or violence. Otherwise, it may make the situation considerably worse and drive the intruder to drastic measures.

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