When it comes to home safety, you can never be too prepared. Being ready for anything requires thinking ahead for all types of scenarios. You may have a plan in place should fire or natural disaster occur. But there are other threats to consider, such as burglary.
Burglary can happen to anyone at anytime. Do you have a plan in place if it happens to you?
If you answered “no” or “not really” just now, not to worry. Simply read through the following steps to establish a solid plan to be prepared for a burglary and put them into practice with your family.
#1: Prevention is your best defense
As many as 16% of American households are broken into each year. That’s why you need a burglary game plan. Being proactive can greatly reduce the chances of it happening to you. Set up motion-sensing lights, install an alarm system and make sure you have strong locks. Other detractors, such as video surveillance cameras, fencing and owning a dog can deter criminals scoping out your home.
#2: Set up a safe room
Should you hear strange noises and fear an intruder is in the house, if you know what to do during a burglary, it can make all the difference. Immediately alert your family and gather everyone in a designated safe room. This room should have a locking door and a heavy piece of furniture that you can slide in front of the door. Stay in the safe room until the police arrive.
#3: Notify the police
You should have an alarm monitoring system that will alert the police the second a break-in occurs. If not, you need to contact the police as soon as possible. Savvy burglars may cut your phone line, so be sure to always have your cell phone handy. Dial 911 and leave the call going so the dispatcher can hear everything that happens.
#4: Try to avoid physical confrontation
It’s best to avoid confrontation altogether, if you can. But if the burglars encounter you, DO NOT attempt to start a fight with them. However, you should be prepared to defend yourself, should the intruders attempt to inflict harm on you or your family members. It’s best to have an easily concealed form of defense, such as pepper spray.
#5: Getting resolution
After a burglary, talk to the police and try to provide a description of the burglars, if possible. Try to report their sex, age, race, voice and what they were wearing. Take photos of any damage or missing possessions, but don’t touch anything. Call your insurance company to file a claim.
Photo By: Orin Zebest, May 6, 2015 via Flickr, Creative Commons Attribution.
