2020 Apr 17
Most of us have seen all kinds of robberies on television, from simple pickpockets to massive bank heists. The downside of this is that such crimes have been normalised to the point that we do not hesitate to think what we would actually do in such a situation; the unwanted presence of a stranger in our home can easily set us in panic mode. The situation may not always call for acts of heroism, and it is always better to be safe than sorry. Here’s a list of the precautions and safety measures you can take in the event of a break-in.
1. Plan ahead
Call a meeting with everyone in the house as soon as possible! Now that quarantine has us all confined at home, this should be far from an issue. Designate a safe meet up place in case of an emergency – this should not be inside the house, preferably somewhere down the street (this is also useful in the case of fires!). Ensure that everyone has a safe route of exit, and assign responsibilities to those capable of helping others. Moreover, take measures to ensure that your house does not become a potential burglary target, you can always set up an alarm system, install CCTV cameras or even have a dog in the compound.
2. The first thirty seconds
Assuming that you have followed all the points in step 1, and yet unfortunately been a victim to a break-in, we got you covered on what to do. Break-ins with a loud noise usually don’t last long and therefore the first thirty seconds are vital. Unlike in movies, crooks break-in usually to steal your belongings and not to hurt you. Therefore, DO NOT PANIC. Firstly, listen carefully and try to identify the number of intruders. Next would be to lock yourself in the room you are in and call 119. Be sure to relay your name, address, your emergency – complete with the number of intruders you think are present, and any possible weapons they might have.
3. Arming yourself
As ridiculous as this may sound, the best way to stay safe is without having a weapon on you! Chances are, you are not a professional nor in the possession of a weapon. Furthermore, if the burglar is armed, there is a greater possibility of you getting hurt if they see you carrying a weapon, even if it is a bat or a knife. Incidents around the world have also reported a significant amount of attacks on household owners upon the arrival of police officers, who were under the impression that the owners were intruders solely due to the reason that they were seen with a weapon.
4. Escape
This is the part where the devised emergency plan is to be executed. However, it is recommended that you first survey your escape route to make sure you are not put in sight of the intruders. If you are unable to leave the room, remained locked inside. Do not deviate from the plan by choosing a different route that will potentially hurt you during your escape. Your mobile phone and car keys are two items recommended that you grab on your way out. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to notify the police of your whereabouts.
5. Alert the neighbours
While reading the previous point, some of you might have wondered why car keys are an essential item to take during your escape. It is in fact not to drive away, but to activate the panic button on the remote once you are in a safe place. The blaring noise from your vehicle is the quickest, safest and easiest way to make your neighbours aware that something is not right. Suppose your car key does not have a remote or a panic button, this step needs to be skipped. Do not go towards your vehicle with the thought of honking the horn as an alternative as this will give the intruders your precise location and puts your safety under potential risk.
6. Be patient
Once you are in the agreed-upon safe place, wait it out. If you have been taken hostage by the intruder, it is advised to fully cooperate with their requirements to put you out of any harm’s way. Do not try to negotiate and offer any alternatives. Make as many mental notes of the burglars’ appearance as possible, to later relay to the police. Only once the police have conducted a thorough search of the house, is it advisable for you to return. Carefully go through your belongings and describe best as possible what has been taken – if cash is involved, clearly state the exact amount.
Finally, this article serves to remind you what you should do during a robbery or a trespass while you are inside your house, and should not bring down your guard in taking all necessary measures to prevent intruders from attacking your house in the first place. Prevention is always better than cure! Be brave in your execution, and always, ALWAYS put your safety first!
