Home Invasion Survival Tips by Home Security Expert Jordan Frankel

If an intruder broke into your home while you and your loved ones were there, what would you do? Most people don’t have an answer because they’ve never considered the possibility of a home invasion. However, news reports show how important it is to have a plan in place. While there is no guaranteed way to predict an intruder’s actions, having basic survival knowledge can increase your chances of staying safe. In this article, you’ll learn essential home invasion survival tips from home security expert Jordan Frankel.

Understanding Responses to Home Invasions

In a recent home invasion in Ocean Beach, California, a 34-year-old man was injured after attempting to fight off intruders. According to Fox 5 San Diego, two men forced their way into the home, armed with a knife and a metal baton. The man resisted but was severely beaten. This incident highlights the dangers of acting without preparation during such situations.

Victims of home invasions often react out of fear. The natural fight-or-flight response may cause some to try escaping while others freeze. In some cases, victims may attempt to fight the intruder. Each response is instinctive, but not always the safest option.

Because every home invasion is different, there is no single “correct” way to react. Compliance may sometimes ensure safety, but it could also escalate to violence. Surviving a home invasion depends on:

• The level of danger
• Your ability to stay calm and think logically
• Your physical abilities and skills
• The responses of others in the home
• Realistic options available

Educating yourself and preparing a plan in advance is critical to increasing your chances of survival.

Home Invasion Survival Tips to Help Keep You Safe

1. Secure Your Home Against Intruders

The best way to survive a home invasion is to prevent one from happening. Strengthening your home’s defenses can deter criminals and delay forced entry. Key measures include:

• Treat all vulnerable windows with window security film like BurglarGARD.
• Replace hollow-core doors with solid wood or metal doors.
• Use 3-inch steel screws to reinforce door hinges.
• Install heavy-duty deadbolts on all entry doors.
• Add a security door brace that can withstand at least 1,700 pounds of pressure like the OnGARD.
• Never open the door to strangers, and teach all household members to follow this rule.
• Set up outdoor surveillance cameras to monitor activity around your property.
• Place solid wooden dowels or metal bars in the tracks of sliding windows and doors to prevent them from being forced open.

Locked doors and windows alone are often insufficient to keep intruders out. Devices like door braces and glass protection film create barriers that require multiple attempts to breach. This extra effort generates noise and buys time for you to call 911 or seek safety.

Reinforcing your home also involves designating safe rooms equipped with additional security measures. Install a door brace or reinforced lock on a sturdy door leading to a closet or bathroom. Stock the room with essentials like a phone, flashlight, and water.

2. Deter Criminals With Strategic Measures

Most intruders target homes that appear unprotected. Effective deterrents include:

• Installing wireless, motion-activated surveillance cameras with portable LED monitors.
• Displaying signs that indicate your home is monitored by a security system.
• Placing “Beware of Dog” signs near entry points, even if you don’t own a dog.
• Setting up bright, motion-activated LED security lights around your home.

Visible signs and devices send a clear message that your home is not an easy target, discouraging criminals from attempting entry. For added security, ensure your property is well-lit and free of overgrown landscaping where intruders could hide.

3. Stay Calm and Think Logically During the Invasion

If prevention fails and you’re confronted by an intruder, remaining calm is crucial. Panic can cloud judgment, but logical thinking can help you identify life-saving opportunities. Consider the following:

• Look for escape opportunities. Whether it be to escape, dial 911, or physically overcome an intruder, keeping a level head can help you better identify these life-saving opportunities.
• Dial 911 quietly. Dialing 911 does not mean you have to speak to the operator. Simply dial the number and maintain an open line for as long as you can. If you are able to dial 911 on your cell phone, place it in your pants pocket or under a nearby sofa, pillow, or bed. Even if the operator cannot hear anything, the operator is required to dispatch a deputy to the scene of the call. Saying things like “Take whatever you want” and “Please don’t hurt us” will communicate important information to the dispatcher about the situation. If calling from a landline, your address will automatically appear on the 911 call screen. Calls from cell phones can also relay your home address if properly set up. Ensure everyone in your home knows how to dial 911 and setup an auto-dial button for 911 on any landline phone.
• Don’t fight over possessions. Material items aren’t worth risking your life.
• Avoid pulling weapons unless necessary. Never pull a gun or another weapon on an intruder unless you are placed in a life-or-death situation. There are numerous stories about intruders overpowering residents and turning their own weapons on them. If you own a gun, take a gun safety course to ensure you know how to properly use it.
• Refuse relocation. Never willingly go to a secondary location with an intruder. Chances are it will be the last place you ever go.
• Don’t chase intruders. Once they leave, call 911 immediately and let law enforcement handle the situation.
• Fight only if it’s your last resort. If fighting is your only chance for survival, use everything at your disposal to defend yourself.

4. Educate Your Household

Preparing your family for potential home invasions is just as important as securing your property. Regularly discuss safety measures and conduct practice drills. Ensure everyone knows:

• How to lock doors and windows effectively
• Where to go during an emergency
• How to use security systems
• How to call 911 and provide clear information

Children should understand not to open doors to strangers and to alert an adult if someone knocks or rings the doorbell. Teaching these skills fosters a sense of preparedness and reduces panic during real emergencies. This is critical for home invasion survival.

Why Layers of Security Are Essential

Home invasions are terrifying crimes, but a layered approach to home security can significantly reduce your risk. Reinforced doors, surveillance systems, and motion-activated lights create multiple obstacles for intruders. Educating yourself and your family about safety measures further ensures preparedness.

If you haven’t already, develop a home invasion survival plan today. Taking action now could save your life and the lives of your loved ones.