An ADT press release provided the following information:
Home invasions can take any form.
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Consider the scenario: you come home late at night to a dark home.
As you enter from your garage, you hear noises from the lounge and realise you are not alone.
Before you can retreat or call for help, two masked burglars seize you and tie your arms and legs.
“A home invasion has to be one of the most frightening situations anyone can experience,” said Kotze.
“It can be even worse if you have other family members with you to worry about.”
Do you think you would know what to do in a situation like this? What actions are likely to give you your best chance of surviving unharmed? Answer the following five questions and see how you compare.
•I should resist my captors. True or false?
False. 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 I am left alone for a few minutes, I should try to escape. True or false?
False. If you fail in your attempt, you risk severe injury or death. Even if you feel certain you can succeed in your attempt, think twice.
•I should engage my captors in conversation. True or false?
False. Speak only if spoken to and then try to keep your answers short and to the point. Certainly, don’t argue with your captors.
4. I should try to make my mind blank until the event is over. True or false?
False. 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 to identify them later.
•The longer my captors are in my home, the more likely I am to survive. True or false?
True. 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.
“Remember, these are generalisations,” the press release read.
“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 is advisable for all members of the family to have discussed these scenarios and to 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,” said Kotze.
“Casual guarding is 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.
“Adding a casual guard with a panic button linked to an armed response company when you’re planning your next event is definitely a good option.
“Sometimes the mere presence of a security officer is enough to deter would-be criminals.”
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