When thieves break into your home and steal your prized belongings, they are stealing more than just possessions, but your sense of safety and security. Perhaps one of the hardest things to do is regain your sense of security after a home invasion, even if you weren’t home when it happened. To help you move forward and take control of your life again, here are a few simple steps you can utilize to ease your anxiety and create peace of mind.
Step 1: Notify law enforcement of the invasion
Regardless of the severity of a break in, notifying the proper authorities is important. Filing a police report is vital in helping to apprehend thieves that may be targeting neighborhoods. If you happen to have any video of the intruder that can also speed up the process.
Step 2: Examine the entry points of your home
Take a close look at how the thieves entered your home. Did they use the door? The window? Did they casually open the door? Pick the lock? Or did they simply kick in the door and force their way into your home? These are all important questions to ask yourself. If there is no sign of forced entry then they perhaps picked your lock, have a copy of your key or you forgot to lock the entry. An important step in security is making sure that any and all entries are secure. Make sure all locks are fixed, replaced and functioning properly. Also by reading some of our previous blogs, you can learn additional tips to secure entryways such as making sure you have proper lighting and that windows and doors are not blocked by landscaping.
Step 3: Install or update your security system
Technology is always improving and that includes security systems. Security technology is not only becoming more affordable, but also more advanced. Security cameras such as the Nest are becoming so advanced that soon they will be able to recognize regular visitors. If you have had the same security system for many years, maybe it’s time you upgraded your system or added additional support and features to make it more robust.
Step 4: Live your life
While it’s perfectly natural and common for you to be afraid after an event such as this, it is important that you move on and not let the fear control you. Familyshare.com says that regaining the sense of security requires a proactive approach such as enrolling the family in a self-defense class or introducing them to a law enforcement officer that patrols the neighborhood. You can also become actively involved in a neighborhood watch program.
