A home invasion is when robbers force their way into an occupied home, apartment or hotel room to commit a robbery or other crime. The entry point of attack is often through the front door, garage or unlocked window. It is very important for the occupant to not automatically open the front door before asking who is there. Home invaders often knock on the door first or ring the bell with the hope that the resident will simply open the door without question. In most cases, people do just that.
Home invasion robbers are more dangerous than other burglars because they want a confrontation, use violence and do not feel they are pressed for time to get out of your home immediately. In contrast, traditional burglars work when a resident is not home because they want to avoid a confrontation and usually will flee when approached. Often times, alarm systems, signs and decals, strong locks and doors, big dogs and alert neighbors can sometimes deter a traditional burglar.
Most traditional burglars resort to violence if they are cornered and will use force as an escape. Most incidents of burglary do not result in violence, even when the burglar is discovered. This is not the case with home invasion robbers.
We are committed to helping you and your family stay safe. To learn more about how you and your loved ones can avoid becoming victims, ask us for an electronic version of our Home Invasion Safety booklet. This contains valuable tips on how to keep your home and family safe.
While you’re home…
• Arm your security system (if you have one). Not doing this is a common mistake home owners make and home invasion robbers know it.
• Do not open the door without question at the sound of a knock.
• If you are not expecting a package, delivery or service call do not answer the door. Insist that the deliverer provide you with verbal verification of his employment and call the company to confirm that the deliverer’s impromptu visit is legitimate. Your front door should remain closed and locked!
• Never rely on a chain-latch as a barrier to partially open the door; a home invader will kick in the door.
• Keep doors, garage doors and windows locked at all times.
• Add panic buttons to your security system and place them around your home so you can alert the proper authorities from any location in your home.
• Hold a family meeting to discuss home security plans. The best defense against home invasion is education and planning.
Be sure to visit our website www.valleyalarm.com for more information on how to keep you and your family safe from harm.
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