Home invasion perpitrators depend on the elements of shock and surprise to control their victims. A voilent kick at the door and armed felons rushing into ones home is hard for the average citizen to comprehend. During the first moments of shock, the attackers rush to predetermined places where they know the occupents should be. Extreme violence will be used to control the victims. Threats and brutality are used to extract cooperation. The attackers may take one or both victims to an ATM and force them to withdraw cash. Vehicles and other valuables may be taken as the perpatrators leave. The victims will be lucky to escape the ordeal with their lives.
The first line of defense once an attack has begun is the door or doors where they intend to enter. If the door does not open after the first kicks the perps might realize they have lost the element of surprise and retreat from the attack. If the attack continues the occupants may have time to respond in any of several ways. They could attempt to leave through another door, arm themselves with a weapon of choice, or retreat to a "safe room" where preplanned responses can be implemented.
In preparing the doors, the objective is to have the door remain locked in the frame through as many kicks or blows as possible. The items and steps below will increase the resistance to a kicking or ramming attack.
Steps to prepare exterior Doors
Check for solid wood or steel door.
Make sure the door and frame are well anchored.
Install the following on each door:
a Quality or high security deadbolt
ie: Medeco or Schlage
Door edge reinforcer
MAG; Don-Jo
Security strike with 6 or more 3" Screws
ie: MAG; Don-Jo
Door viewer or camera
Replace 1 screw in each hinge with a 3" screw.
A professional locksmith can assist you in selection and installation.
It is important to remember that Home invaders are intent on using violence to gain control. your response should be planned with this in mind.
