Hiding from a home invader can be a difficult and frightening task, but knowing what to do ahead of time can help you stay safe in an emergency. The most important step is to be prepared—make sure your exits are clear, your home security system is up and running, and you have a plan for what to do in the event of a home invasion.
Once you’re prepared, the next step is to stay as quiet and still as possible. Make sure all lights are off and draw curtains and blinds to avoid being seen. Do your best to not draw attention to yourself and the area where you’re hiding.
Once you’ve found a safe spot, such as a closet or space under a bed, make sure to lock or barricade the door if possible. If you’re unable to do this, do your best to make yourself as small as possible and remain silent.
If you have a cell phone with you, use it to call for help. Do not make calls in the room where you’re hiding, as this can potentially draw attention. If you’re unable to make a call, wait for the intruder to leave and then call the police from a safe location.
Above all, try to remain calm and follow the steps outlined above. Staying safe is the number one priority, and if you do so, many of the other potential outcomes can be avoided.
What do burglars fear most?
Burglars fear getting caught the most. Getting arrested and facing the legal consequences for their crime can be a deterrent for burglars. The odds of getting caught are increased if the property has a security system, CCTV cameras, or any other type of surveillance.
Burglars are also likely to fear coming face to face with someone who lives at the property or a passerby when committing a break-in. This could result in getting injured or engaging in a physical altercation.
Furthermore, burglars are also likely to be worried about getting caught by law enforcement while trying to escape with the stolen items or after they are sold. Finally, financial losses may also be a fear for burglars, if they are unable to sell the stolen items or are caught and have to pay legal fees or be fined.
What keeps intruders away?
There are a variety of measures you can take to keep intruders away from your property. The most effective ways for reducing the risk of intrusion are using strong and up-to-date locks and security systems, maintaining good visibility in your yard and around your home, and joining or creating a neighborhood watch program.
Strong locks and security systems are key to keeping intruders away, as they deter intruders from attempting to force entry into your home. Investing in high-quality locks can prevent intruders from entering through windows or doors, while an up-to-date security system can detect an intruder and alert you and the local law enforcement.
Make sure to keep all locks and security systems regularly maintained and tested in order to keep them effective.
Good visibility also helps to keep away intruders because it makes them feel exposed and vulnerable if they know that they can be seen. Keep your yard well-lit and trimmed, and secure any access points with strong fence panels and gates.
Joining or starting a neighborhood watch program can also be helpful in keeping intruders away, as it creates a system of neighbors who look out for each other’s homes. It’s also an opportunity for neighbors to share knowledge about security and local incidents.
By investing in strong locks and security systems, maintaining good visibility in your yard and neighborhood, and joining a neighborhood watch program, you can help ensure that intruders don’t feel welcomed or safe in your area.
What makes you a target for home invasion?
Home invasions are typically targeted based on a combination of factors, such as type of home, location, lack of adequate security and valuables left in plain sight.
The type of home typically determines the goal of a home invasion. Some criminals target larger, more isolated homes with high-end security systems and expensive possessions, as they assume these properties have more things of value.
On the other hand, criminals may also target smaller, less secure homes because they believe these properties may have fewer security measures in place and less chance of getting caught.
Location is also a factor when it comes to home invasions. Criminals generally prefer to target homes that are in remote areas, away from larger populated neighborhoods. This offers them less chance of being seen or discovered.
Criminals also prefer homes that have minimal or no security measures in place. Things like weak locks, broken windows and outdated security systems can make it easier for a criminal to gain access to a home.
Finally, if valuables are kept in plain sight, it can make criminals assume these items are easily accessible and thus, easier to steal. This can make your home a target for a home invasion.
So, in summary, the type of home, location, lack of security, and the presence of easy-to-access valuables can be the factors that make you a target for home invasion. It is important to take steps to ensure your home is safe and secure and to never leave valuables in plain sight.
How do you trick burglars?
One way to trick burglars is to make your home look like it is occupied. For example, you can set up your lights on a timer. Strategically placed lighting will make it appear as if someone is moving around inside the house.
You can also arrange for a friend or family member to stop by frequently to check on your house and give it the appearance that someone is regularly present. Utilizing alarm systems and visible security cameras can also be a deterrent.
Additionally, ensure that all doors and windows are locked and keep any valuables out of view. Finally, if you are away for an extended period of time, you can enlist the help of your neighbors to keep an eye out and even park their car in the driveway if possible.
How can you tell if a house is being targeted?
It is important to take notice of any suspicious or abnormal activity in or around the property.
• Unfamiliar people loitering near the house or in the neighbourhood.
• Unfamiliar vehicles parked near the house that seem to be there often, especially late at night.
• Persons engaging in activities such as taking pictures or measurements at the house or in the neighbourhood.
• Unusual knocks or knocks that are repeated at strange times or in an odd pattern.
• Unauthorized persons entering or leaving the house or anyone entering and leaving quickly.
• Unusual activity around windows, such as blinds being adjusted, curtains shifted, or lights being left on for extended periods.
• Unusual phone calls and mail being delivered without explanation.
• Damage to property, including broken windows, holes in walls or fences, and graffiti.
• Tampering with security systems, such as locks on doors and windows being changed or installed without notification.
If you observe any of these warning signs or any other suspicious behaviour, it is important to trust your instincts and contact the police.
Where are home invasions most common?
Home invasions are most common in urban and suburban areas, although occurrences in rural areas have been reported. City neighborhoods with higher crime rates tend to have more home invasions. Factors such as a lack of security measures, the presence of cash or high-value items, or even a perception of vulnerability can increase the likelihood of a home invasion.
Additionally, when homes are in close proximity to one another, renters or vacation homes may be more prone to home invasions by individuals who want to target an area with less security. The development of gated communities, residential security systems, and regular home security checks are some of the essential measures to prevent home invasions.
What to do if an intruder is in your house?
If you believe there is an intruder in your house, it is important to remain calm and take the right measures to keep yourself safe. Depending on your situation, you will want to take one of the following immediate steps:
If the intruder has not yet realized you are home, leave the house as quickly and quietly as possible, and call the police from a safe location.
If the intruder has noticed you, or if you can’t escape the situation, find a safe place to hide and call the police. In addition, if you have access to a communication device, try to call a family member or trusted friend for help.
When the police arrive, provide a detailed description of the intruder and keep all of your locks locked and windows closed until it is safe to move.
Finally, develop an emergency plan to respond to any intruders in the future. Make sure all family members know and understand the plan in case of an emergency. Consider talking to a neighborhood watch organization and invest in the latest security technology, like security cameras and motion-sensor lights.
Will burglars hurt you?
The answer to this question depends on the circumstances and the specific burglar. In the majority of cases, burglars do not intend to hurt or harm anyone during the act of burglary. If they come across someone while they are burgling, they may become startled or scared and may attempt to flee the scene without causing harm.
If they’re confronted or cornered by a homeowner or witness while they are in the act of burglary, they may attempt to defend themselves if necessary. To that end, in the worst-case scenarios, there is a possibility that someone could be physically harmed if a confrontation between the burglar and a bystander occurs.
Ultimately, it’s important to take precautions when it comes to security and safety, such as making sure all doors and windows are securely locked, installing an alarm system, and being aware of one’s surroundings when going in and out of a home.
What time do most break-ins happen?
Most break-ins typically occur between 10am and 3pm. A study by the US Department of Justice showed that 34% of all residential break-ins take place during this time frame. This is likely because burglars perceive this time between the morning and mid-afternoon to be most vulnerable, as fewer people are present and common security features, such as an alarm system, may not be activated.
Additionally, studies have also determined that most burglaries occur on weekends, when people are more likely to be away from home. It is important to be aware of the times of day when break-ins are more likely in order to find effective ways to protect your home.
Strategies such as installing a home security system, using deadbolts, keeping valuables out of sight, and using motion-sensor lights can help deter thieves.
How do you tell if a burglar is watching your house?
To determine if a burglar is watching your house, there are several things you can do. The first is to look for suspicious people or vehicles parked in your neighborhood for extended periods of time.
If a suspicious person or vehicle is present for several days, it could be indicative of someone scoping out your home.
You can also check for signs of tampering on your locks, windows, and gates, as this could indicate that someone has attempted to gain access to your home. Be sure to check the locks on your garage door and shed, as well as the locks on your front and back doors.
Additionally, you should pay close attention to any strangers or unfamiliar vehicles that come and go near your home. You should also check around the perimeter of your home at night to ensure that no one is lurking in the shadows, and that there are no lights or electronic devices that could indicate surveillance.
Finally, pay special attention to your home’s security system. You should make sure that your alarm is easy to turn on and that it is set properly so that it’s activated whenever someone attempts to gain unauthorized access to your home.
This is a great way to deter criminals and monitor any suspicious activity.
Does leaving a light on at night deter burglars?
Leaving a light on at night is often viewed as a way to deter burglars as it may indicate to them that someone is in the home or that the house is occupied. This may encourage burglars to seek out another target.
However, this is not a guaranteed method of preventing burglary, as burglars may attempt to target homes regardless of lighting conditions. It is also important to consider that leaving a light on at night increases the energy consumption and cost of electricity.
To be the most effective, it is important to make sure that exterior lights are motion-activated or on timer settings to only turn on at certain times. Installing outdoor lights throughout a home’s perimeter, adding a security system, ensuring that all doors and windows are locked and adding cameras around the home may be more effective for deterring burglars.
What makes a burglar pick a house?
They might target a specific home for its expensive items, such as jewelry, electronics, or artwork. A home that looks unguarded and provides easy access, such as an open window or unlocked door, can also be attractive to burglars.
Being in a prime neighborhood may also make a home more attractive, as burglars assume these homes are likely to contain higher-value items. Other criteria a burglar may consider include an isolated location, lack of visibility or surveillance such as nearby cameras and security systems, easy escape routes if spotted, and any nearby sources of possible tools, such as ladders or access to unscrew locks.
Where do burglars not look?
Burglars may not look in the obvious places like closets, under the bed, around bookshelves, dresser drawers, and trash cans. They typically avoid checking inside appliance and electronics as these can be difficult to enter and could potentially contain alarms.
Areas such as bathrooms and kitchens tend to be overlooked because burglars are often in a rush. In addition, small areas such as behind pictures or wall decorations, ceilings, and air ducts often escape their attention.
It’s always a good idea to store important valuables like jewelry and cash in a place that a thief would never think to look, such as in an empty can of paint or locked safe. This will help to ensure that any valuables remain safe during a burglary.
How can I avoid being robbed at home?
There are several steps you can take to avoid being robbed at home.
1. Make sure your doors and windows are locked at all times. Also, consider adding extra locks or installing a security system to further secure your doors and windows.
2. When away on vacation or out of town, it’s a good idea to have a neighbor or family member come by periodically and check on your house. This will provide an extra layer of security.
3. Avoid leaving unattended packages or other items at your front door for any length of time.
4. If you have an alarm system, make sure to activate it whenever you are away from the house and make sure to routinely check that the system is functioning properly.
5. Invest in motion sensor lights and add them around the perimeter of your home. This will provide extra lighting when someone is outside your home and will alert you to any potential intruders.
6. If you notice any suspicious activity in your neighborhood, don’t hesitate to call the police right away.
7. If you ever feel uncomfortable or threatened, don’t hesitate to call 911.
By following these steps, you can greatly reduce the chances of becoming a victim of robbery at home.