In many robberies, residents are at home at the time of a home invasion.
Theunis Kotze, general manager of ADT Inland Region said it was so important for families to stay calm to survive home invasions.
He added, “A home invasion has to be one of the most frightening situations anyone can experience. It can be even worse if you have other family members with you to worry about.”
Kotze advised that unless you feel you are facing an imminent life-and-death situation, don’t fight back. As hard as it may be, accept your situation and give your captors time to take any material possessions they want. If you fail in your attempt to overpower robbers, you risk severe injury or death. Even if you feel certain you can succeed in your attempt, think twice. He said you must not try to engage your captors, speak only if spoken to and then try to keep your answers short and to the point.
Certainly, don’t argue with your captors. “Try to get a good look at your captors and memorise their physical details and clothing. Listen for any names or other details that might help identify them later,” Kotze advised. Generally speaking, the first few minutes of a home invasion are the most dangerous. Try to remain calm and quiet. If you are not threatening, your captors can concentrate on their goals and leave. Also, the longer the situation continues, the more likely outside help will arrive, he said.
“Remember, these are generalisations. No two incidents are ever identical, so consider these tips to be basic guidelines. As hard as it may be at the time, try to stay calm so that any decisions you make are not just reactions resulting from panic.”
Kotze said it was advisable for all members of the family to have discussed these scenarios and be aware of what to do should they ever find themselves confronted with a home invasion.
“Also remember that a monitored home alarm system acts as a deterrent to most criminals and can help prevent a home invasion altogether. Casual guarding is also another option if you are having an event. Although no one wants to have to think about security when they are having fun, the reality exists that criminals are aware that functions and parties generally mean easy pickings and easy targets,” he concluded.
