What to Do When Someone Breaks Into Your Home While You’re There

06/22/2017

While some burglars will “case” a home to determine when no one is there, others are more brazen and will attempt to break in while the house is occupied. This type of home invasion can occur while you’re sleeping or even when you’re having dinner or watching TV. Knowing what to do in these situations can mean the difference between life and death.

What If You’re Home Alone and Someone Tries to Break In?

It can be even more terrifying if you’re home alone, and someone breaks in. The burglar might mistakenly believe that the house is unoccupied — or they may already know you’re the only one there. Either way, it’s important to know how to react. The following tips can help you experience the best possible outcome during a home invasion:

  • Remain quiet: Avoid the temptation to yell out to try to frighten the intruder — this will reveal your location and possibly put your life in danger if the individual is armed. Remain quiet and attempt to determine the intruder’s movements and whether he or she is working alone. Avoid confronting the invader, even if you have a weapon within easy reach.
  • Exit the home if possible: Once you’ve targeted the intruder’s location, determine if there is a way to get out of the house safely. For instance, if you’re in a second-floor bedroom with access to an exterior staircase or fire escape, you might be able to exit undetected if the burglar is on the first floor. Have a destination in mind, whether it’s a car (assuming you have the keys), a neighbor’s home or a nearby business.
  • Find a hiding place: If getting out of the house isn’t a viable option, look for a good place to hide. A closet with a solid door and a strong lock may be your best bet, although you may know of other “nooks and crannies” that would make good hiding spots. Most burglars will think to look under a bed, so this usually will not provide a safe haven.
  • Call for help: If you have access to a phone, call 911 as soon as you’ve made it to a relatively safe location. You may have to rely on a cell phone, as many intruders will cut the lines to landline phones before entering the home. Speak as quietly and calmly as possible to the 911 operator, then stay still and wait for help to arrive. Remain in your hiding place until you’re sure the coast is clear.
  • If you encounter the intruder: If you come face-to-face with the intruder, obey his or her commands and don’t make any sudden moves. In most cases, burglars will simply take what they want and flee before the police arrive.

Protect Yourself Against Home Invasions by Installing a Security System

An effective home security system equipped with features such as burglar alarms, automated locks and surveillance cameras can serve as an effective deterrent to home invaders. Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. to learn more about your security options in the Phoenix, AZ area.

Learn More About Protection Against Home Intrusions

Updated by Titan Alarm on October 31, 2018.