How to Prevent a Home Robbery
Imagine sleeping in your bed at night and suddenly you hear a window break or someone walking around in your house? It can be a frightening experience and no one prepares you for what to do next. Below are some tips on how to handle the situation.
Alarm
Even if you think you live in a safe neighborhood it is probably a good idea to invest in a security alarm. You will then have to make sure the alarm is monitored by a security store, an alarm company, or by the police directly. Some alarm companies will call you if your alarm is activated and ask you if everything is OK before sending out the police; whereas some other companies will automatically activate the emergency police response. It is a good idea to have a safe word so the police know for sure if you are alright, or if you are being threatened and forced to say that you are safe when in fact you are in danger.
Doors and Windows
Thieves often look for a simple target so if they see an open window, that is the house they will attempt to rob. Locking your doors and windows at night is the simplest way to prevent an intruder, yet so many people forget this step before going to bed. You often get into a routine where you come home and walk through the garage door without giving it a second thought, but getting into the habit of locking doors behind you is a good way to protect yourself and your family.
Lighting
Outdoor lighting is one of the best preventatives you can use to deter a thief. It is best to get energy efficient bulbs so you can leave your porch and patio lights on all night. If you do not want to leave the lights on unnecessarily, try getting motion detector lights which only turn on when someone walks by; you will need to be handy for this one or hire an electrician.
Signs
Did you know that just a simple sign can prevent a burgurlary? Would-be thieves know that it is easier for them to rob a house that does not have an alarm system so when they see the alarm company’s sign on the front window or door, they often go to the next house. And even if you do not actually have an alarm, you can still purchase the signs.
Beware of Dog is another sign that is a good deterrent. Who would want to take the risk of being mauled by a Rottweiler or pit bull?
Camera
A security camera is another great deterrent. If you can afford to have a security company install one in your house equipped with video screens that you can view around the house then do not spare any expense. These security cameras can catch robbers in the act and be used as evidence in court even if you are not home.
If cost is an issue, then consider buying a dummy camera and hang it near your front door. Some of them even has a motion light that blinks when someone walks by. These cameras are battery operated and look like the real deal, but only you will know the wire is cut in the back.
Locks
When you first move into your house remember to change your locks, even if it is a new house. Remember that real estate agents, contractors, and builders have had access to your house and you never know who decided to make a copy of your key.
Consider getting a biometric lock which only allows those who are in the system to use their fingerprints to open the door. You will not require a key and there is no keyhole for robbers to pick.
Hire a locksmith and bump proof your locks. Keep in mind you will have to get special keys made for your new locks and these cannot be replicated at the hardware store.
Common Sense
If you have taken all of the above preventative measures and someone still manages to enter your home illegally, then be prepared. Call 911 and hide so you do not put yourself in direct danger. Do practice tests with your family to make sure everyone knows where to go and how to handle the situation.
If you have nowhere to hide or are confronted by the criminal then do not try to protect your valuables; at the end of the day it is your life that is most important. Objects can be replaced but your family cannot.
Many people will try to defend their property by yielding a weapon but think about the consequences; will you really be OK if you shoot an intruder? How will your family be able to cope with the nightmare and potential legal costs if your case goes to court? What happens if the robber is a psychopath or is high on drugs and has no regard for human life? You do not want to take the chance of getting killed for the sake of your jewelry, money and computer.
Know your state laws if you do attempt to protect your home. In the state of Texas there is the Castle law which allows Texans to not only protect themselves from criminals, but to receive the protection of state law when circumstances dictate that they use deadly force. Governor Rick Perry of Texas was proud to sign this bill because “it protects law-abiding citizens from unfair litigation, and further clarifies their right to self-defense.”
Source: http://governor.state.tx.us/news/speech/5535/
Note: The Castle was authored by Senator Wentworth and sponsored by Representative Driver.
