As with most dangerous situations the common thought pattern is that "it won't happen to me.
" When we see invaders on TV or in the movies, breaking into people's homes by force, we think "I don't have anything that could possibly be worth all that effort," but the unfortunate fact of the matter is that this form of breaking and entry has become increasingly popular over the last decade.
As security system technology improves, home security systems have not always kept up with those available at more public locations like gas stations, kiosks, convenience stores and fast-food restaurants.
Today these commercial establishments are prepared for the worst with video surveillance, full-time security personnel and silent alarms.
In many cases businesses have stopped holding large amounts of cash on the property.
When these factors are combined with the risk of interruption by customers or the police, it's just not worth it for intruders to make a go of public locales anymore.
An attractive alternative for these intruders is to head to personal residences.
Here are some tips on what to look out for, and how to prevent a home security disaster.
1.
Turn on the home alarm system.
Many people only use their home alarms systems when they are not home during the day, and turn them off at night.
Intruders who are willing to gain forceful entry are aware of this, and will take advantage of a switched-off alarm.
These intruders have plenty of time to try a door or window, wait a while, and then make a full-on attempt at forced entry.
Scare them off from the get-go with an activated alarm system.
Also make sure all doors and windows are locked at all times.
Many homeowners leave doors and windows wide open, and thereby defeat the purpose of their security system.
2.
Don't answer the door.
Stranger-danger doesn't just apply to little children anymore.
Today it's a good idea to be wary of anyone unknown who arrives at your doorstep with an odd request.
Some of the most common scams are delivering a package or food, claiming to have been involved in an accident nearby, or claiming to have hit your parked car.
These intruders are just waiting for you to open your door a crack so they can use physical force to overwhelm you, and gain entry into the home.
Some don't even need a scam, they simply ring the bell.
Be prepared and have a peep hole installed.
If you don't know the person, offer to call the police on their behalf but never open the door.
Do not rely on a chain-latch as they are easily broken during a kick-in.
3.
Be prepared for the worst.
A person who is willing to enter a home while they know the occupants are home is one willing to go to great lengths to achieve information, or that has a secondary agenda.
The person may wish to cause your family members harm, and will likely be prepared to bind or otherwise incapacitate and intimidate you, often with weapons.
It is best to comply with requests for information as to the whereabouts of valuables, and the pin numbers or combinations to safes as these are just belongings.
The person may find the experience of using violent behavior thrilling, and it is not unheard of for intruders to load up the family car with their own belongings, to eat a meal, or to even take a nap whilst mid-intrusion.
If your family does not have a panic or safety room, it is a good idea to have a home security system which links to a 24/7 customer care center, thereby ensuring help is on the way immediately- even if phone lines are cut or damaged by the intruder.
This will buy you and your family time until help arrives and you reach safety.