I’ve just started living alone and had a scare recently when my garage door opened at 2 a.m. My app notified me, and my neighbor confirmed it was open. Nothing was disturbed, but I’ve since changed the code and added a security system. I’m also getting a sturdier door between the garage and the house.
Now I’m thinking about what to do if someone does get in. I carry pepper spray in my bag, but what about inside the house? Are those pepper spray/gel guns worth it, or will they just end up blinding me too? What about other tools? I’ve heard of the “sock on a baseball bat” trick to stop someone from grabbing it, but would something like an axe be a bad idea? I’ve also heard that a fire extinguisher could disorient an intruder and be used as a blunt weapon.
Lastly, I’m hesitant about guns, but I feel like I need to learn. How do I even start asking people I know for help with firearms training without it sounding strange? I’m open to suggestions but not looking to carry one outside of home defense.
I unplug my garage door opener when I don’t plan to use it for a while. It keeps things secure. My kid is on the spectrum and has wandered off before, so it’s a double benefit—it keeps him in and others out.
Neely said:
Make sure the door between the garage and your house is always locked, even when you’re home. If there’s no deadbolt, install one.
Be careful, though. If you ever need emergency help, locking every door could slow down responders. My neighbor locked herself out and we had to remove her door from the hinges to help her get back in.
Lennon said:
Keeping your spare car keys near your bed is a good idea. Pressing the panic button can scare off intruders and alert neighbors.
I’ve actually done this! Once, some prowlers were acting suspiciously outside my house late at night. I hit the panic button on my car, and they left immediately.
Planning is key! Consider getting martial arts training in addition to learning about firearms. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches techniques that don’t rely on strength and can help in close combat. As for weapons, flashlights with high brightness can blind attackers and double as striking tools. A knife might be better than a bat since it’s harder to take away.
@Dani
There are small bats out there that are great for defense. I got one years ago as a gift, and it’s solid wood. Easy to handle and can definitely do some damage.
Shane said: @Dani
There are small bats out there that are great for defense. I got one years ago as a gift, and it’s solid wood. Easy to handle and can definitely do some damage.
A crowbar could also work as a self-defense tool and doubles as a useful tool for other things.
Shane said: @Dani
There are small bats out there that are great for defense. I got one years ago as a gift, and it’s solid wood. Easy to handle and can definitely do some damage.
Collapsible batons are another option, though they’re illegal in some places. Check your local laws first.
@Dani
Bright flashlights are underrated. They can disorient anyone trying to attack you. Check out forums dedicated to flashlights for recommendations.
I live alone and struggle with depression, so I avoid having guns in the house. Instead, I got a dog who barks at anything unusual. I also keep my home well-lit and make friends with my neighbors for added security.
Door jammers are a great first line of defense. They’re inexpensive and very effective at stopping forced entry. I also recommend reinforcing door jambs and getting commercial-grade deadbolts.