What’s the best way to handle a burglar without weapons?

Seeking Help Forum
1

I live in a country where firearms aren’t allowed. Last night, my burglar alarm went off, and someone had entered my garage. Luckily, the camera spooked them, and they left without taking anything.

But it got me thinking—what’s the best thing to do if the burglar doesn’t leave? Just wait and call the police? I don’t think confronting them is a good idea since it’s risky. I’m considering getting a strong flashlight to shine out and make it clear someone’s home. What do you think? Any other suggestions?

2

Naked with a samurai sword always works!

3

Rain said:
Naked with a samurai sword always works!

How about naked with a bottle of champagne and two glasses?

4

Drew said:

Rain said:
Naked with a samurai sword always works!

How about naked with a bottle of champagne and two glasses?

Don’t threaten me with a good time!

5

Drew said:

Rain said:
Naked with a samurai sword always works!

How about naked with a bottle of champagne and two glasses?

That took a turn!

6

Rain said:
Naked with a samurai sword always works!

Set the flashlight behind you to create a silhouette—it’ll add to the intimidation.

7

Set up a safe room in your home. This could be a bathroom, walk-in closet, or a specific room. Reinforce the door with a solid core, deadbolt, and door jams. Stock it with essentials:

  • Communication: Phone, chargers, and emergency contacts preloaded.
  • Medical: First aid kit, snacks, and water.
  • Defense: Items like a hammer or bat, and an air horn for disorientation.

Practice alarm drills so everyone knows to get to the safe room quickly. Use your cameras to monitor the intruder and relay details to the police. If the safe room is breached, do whatever is necessary to protect yourself and your family.

8

@Merritt
Great advice, thank you!

9

Rory said:
@Merritt
Great advice, thank you!

Glad I could help.

10

You should get an Aztec death whistle. That’ll scare them off for sure!

11

Call the cops, secure your family, and let insurance handle the rest. Nothing in the garage is worth risking your life for, especially since the burglar might be armed even if you’re not.

12

Haim said:
Call the cops, secure your family, and let insurance handle the rest. Nothing in the garage is worth risking your life for, especially since the burglar might be armed even if you’re not.

That’s my thinking too. Thanks.

13

A loud alarm works wonders. The noise alone will often scare them off.

14

Keir said:
A loud alarm works wonders. The noise alone will often scare them off.

Combine loud noises with flashing lights. Turn on every light in the house to make it obvious someone is home.

15

As an American, it’s so strange to imagine not being allowed to own firearms. If guns are off the table, the best thing is to call the police, secure your family, and have a plan in place. Invest in alarms, cameras, and any home security system available where you live.

16

@Nyx
It might sound strange, but I honestly don’t feel safer with a gun. Knowing they’re rare where I live makes me feel less likely to encounter one in a confrontation.

17

It sounds like your current setup worked perfectly. The alarm scared them off, and the camera gave you evidence. Just hand it over to the police.

18

Sage said:
It sounds like your current setup worked perfectly. The alarm scared them off, and the camera gave you evidence. Just hand it over to the police.

Good point. I did call the police, and they took a report.

19

Consider getting a guard dog. It’s a great deterrent, especially since firearms aren’t an option.

20

Drew said:
Consider getting a guard dog. It’s a great deterrent, especially since firearms aren’t an option.

A dog would help, but it’s a big commitment. I’m not sure I’m ready for that.