An intruder can react violently, so instead of searching for the intruder, you should first try to escape or hide. [1] X Research source
You can shout this simple word or phrase, such as “ESCAPE!”, to put them on the alert so that they can escape or run to a safe place.
If at all possible, try to make your way to this safe room if you hear an intruder in your home.
Consider installing a deadbolt on your bedroom door and/or the safe room for extra security. [2] X Research source You should also make sure that you have an audible and silent panic alarm in your room that is monitored. The alarm system may startle or deter the intruder in the first place.
Stock your safe room with things you can use as a weapon in case the intruder makes it in and you are forced to defend yourself, such as a bat. We’ll have more to say in later steps about keeping more dangerous weapons such as knives and guns in your safe room. You may also want to consider having food, water, and first aid supplies in your safe room. [3] X Research source
If, however, the intruder tries to break into the room where you’re hiding, then it may actually be a good idea to yell “We’ve called police—they’re on their way!”. Use the plural “we” when you call out, even if you’re alone. If the intruder thinks that there are more than one of you, he may panic and leave.
For example, “My name is Sally Smith, and I live at 123 River Road. I hear two intruders in my home. I’m hiding in the upstairs back bedroom, and I think they are still downstairs in the living room. ” Try to keep the line with the dispatcher open so that they can listen in, provide you with updates on the progress of the police, and help keep you calm.
This way, if the intruder breaks into the room, you’ll be able to see them before they see you, and you can quickly assess the situation to see if you need to fight (or shoot, if you are armed with a gun).
Continue to stay on the line with the emergency services dispatcher until you are told that the police have arrived and until the police announce themselves outside your door.
It’s also a good idea to try to determine how the intruder got into your home: was a lock picked or a window broken? You may need to have repairs completed and/or locks changed before you’ll feel safe sleeping in your home again.
Be on the lookout for ways to escape and do your best to remain calm and cooperative. You should avoid confrontation and violent reactions if at all possible.
You may eventually be forced to defend yourself, but at least initially, you’ll have a greater chance of surviving if you do what you’re asked.
If the intruder is in the room and wants or allows you to answer (they may know that if you don’t pick up the police will be sent), you should have a distress code phrase prearranged with the security company. When you say the code words, they’ll know that you’re in trouble. For example, you could say “Mom, I’ll call you in the morning. ”[9] X Research source If forced to disarm your security system, use your duress code on the keypad instead of your usual code: This has the added benefit that the police will be notified silently.
The fumes can be overwhelming, and you don’t want to be trapped in a room with them. [10] X Research source
Aim for the groin, neck, face (eyes, nose, mouth) or knees. [12] X Research source Where you should hit the attacker will depend on where the intruder is positioned near you. If he’s not standing right next to you, for example, then try to kick his knees (hard and fast), rather than moving closer to strike him in the neck. [13] X Research source
You may also be able to incapacitate the intruder by making a forceful upward thrust with the heel of your palm into his nose. [15] X Research source
Use your leverage, and throw your body weight into it. [16] X Research source
If you’re woken before you can make it to your safe room or grab another more suitable weapon, you may still be able to inflict serious damage with these items.
In most cases, the law will protect you if you shoot an intruder. [17] X Research source
This means that if the intruder is threatening you with a piece of fruit, for example, and you know it’s a piece of fruit, you could face charges for stabbing or shooting the intruder. [19] X Research source
Even in these states, you aren’t allowed to attack without reasonable cause, so be careful. If you can, it helps to research what laws and statutes apply where you live. [21] X Research source
Again, it’s always a good idea to learn what laws apply in your state, and how the specifics vary. [22] X Research source
This is all the more important if you have children: even if you think that you’ve hidden your guns and ammunition where they’ll never find it, it is nearly guaranteed that they will discover your hiding places.
Consider storing them in your safe room, but be sure to keep the keys to both where children cannot find them. [23] X Research source
While the police should identify themselves if they enter your home, try to take a quick moment before shooting if someone breaks into your room. It could be an intruder, in which case it’s important that you protect yourself, but you don’t want to accidentally shoot a police officer.
