Your Security Tips

What To Do If You Think Someone Has Broken In To Your Home

We've all seen movies where the main character walks up to a door that's been forced open. Everyone watching is saying, "Don't go in." But of course, the person does go in, and there's usually a bad guy lurking. Of course, the good guy has to live until the end of the movie, so there's only a scuffle or discussion at gunpoint. The good guy escapes or gets knocked out temporarily. Unfortunately, real life doesn't always imitate art. Walking in on a real bad guy is much more unpredictable. That's why it's important to follow a few simple rules if you think there's someone in your If you have an alarm system and the monitoring station has informed you of a break-in, always wait for police to arrive. By waiting safely outside, you let police investigate the scene first. Also, you're not risking being mistaken for the intruder. Don't even think about taking a weapon into the house. Again, the police may mistake you for the intruder. If you receive a call from a security system monitoring station, call the station before arriving home. Ask if police have responded to the call and give a physical description of yourself to the operator. Have a flashlight on hand in case the intruder has tampered with your electric power. Have an ID to identify yourself to authorities. Walk around the perimeter to check for signs of a break-in, such as open or broken doors and windows. Stand back and view the roof for signs of entry. If you're inside your house and hear noises that are not normal, get out immediately. If you ever come upon an intruder, do not put yourself between him and an exit door. If the intruder doesn't bolt at first sight, get out and seek help.