Am I overreacting or should I call someone?

Hi everyone, I’m a 21-year-old woman living with my husband, our two kids, and two dogs in a part of Florida that’s generally safe but not the best neighborhood.

Tonight, I heard some weird noises outside, which I thought was just a neighbor’s party, but my dogs wouldn’t stop barking. I took them outside on leashes and think I saw someone in my backyard neighbor’s yard. It’s dark back there since he doesn’t have any lights, and I’m not even 100% sure it was a person—just a shadow moving slowly.

My husband said to go inside, lock up, and wait for him, but I’m feeling unsure. Would it be a waste to call the police if I’m not totally certain? Any advice would be great.

Wait, so you think you saw someone in your neighbor’s yard and you’re freaked out? Just making sure I’m understanding.

Hadi said:
Wait, so you think you saw someone in your neighbor’s yard and you’re freaked out? Just making sure I’m understanding.

Yeah, sorry for the confusion. I thought my side neighbor was having a party, but I saw something in my backyard neighbor’s yard.

@Milo
I think it would be good to know your neighbors better. That way you could reach out directly if something like this happens again.

Hadi said:
@Milo
I think it would be good to know your neighbors better. That way you could reach out directly if something like this happens again.

Good point. I’ll definitely make an effort to connect with them after this.

Hadi said:
Wait, so you think you saw someone in your neighbor’s yard and you’re freaked out? Just making sure I’m understanding.

Vesper said:

Hadi said:
Wait, so you think you saw someone in your neighbor’s yard and you’re freaked out? Just making sure I’m understanding.

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Having a firearm for home defense might help you feel more secure. But honestly, it sounds like this might just be nerves getting the best of you.

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Vesper said:
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Do you think I should call the non-emergency line since I’m not 100% sure?

Think about practical solutions—maybe let your neighbor know what you saw and see if they’re open to installing a security light. Having lights in the back helps, and definitely lock everything up at night. Also, some firearm training can give you peace of mind; it can actually be a fun skill to learn.

You could try yelling, “Is there anyone out there? I’m calling the police!” Then go back inside, lock up, and turn off your lights. If you still hear noises, it might be time to call the police. Sometimes it’s just raccoons, but if you hear voices, better safe than sorry. Also, remember that older folks sometimes get confused and wander around accidentally.

I’d suggest putting up some lights and having a chat with your neighbor about what you saw.

When in doubt, call the police. Better safe than sorry. And consider arming yourself for peace of mind.

You and your husband might want to look into a concealed carry course, and then get a handgun. Florida has the castle law, which allows you to protect your family at home.

Also, cameras or security systems like Ring or SimpliSafe can help you keep an eye on things and offer proof if needed. If you’re worried about weapons, pepper spray or bear mace can work too—just make sure it has a marking agent so police can see if it was used.

Why not ask your neighbor if they had any guests out back or if someone was just stepping out for a smoke? Guessing won’t help you feel secure, so checking in could give you peace of mind.

If you do get a firearm, don’t take it outside unless you’re sure there’s a real threat. Stay inside and call the police if you’re uncertain.

Call the non-emergency line and ask if they can send someone to check it out. Worst case, it was nothing, but you’ll feel better.