Home Invasions Hitting Houston

The danger of a home invasion in Houston is growing. In just the last month alone, several local home invasions made the news. In some of those cases people in the home, including children, were terrorized and in most someone died during the attack.

In fact, two home invasions were reported in the last two days of this writing, one in northeast Houston and one in southwest Houston. In both instances, a man was shot to death.

It's a frightening fact that we are no longer safe in our own homes. While losing material positions in a burglary can leave victims feeling violated, a home invasion can be much worse. Although a confronted burglar can quickly become a murderer, his or her intention is to get away.

However, a growing number of home invaders are much more ruthless than a burglar caught in the act. These criminals use violence to gain control, and appear to enjoy the confrontation, intimidation and brutality. They are certainly not afraid of it.

Whether they're gangs using strategic methods of robbery or individuals without a plan, these criminals force their way in day or night. They can enter through an unlocked door, bust in a door or window, or simply push their way in when the door opens.

Police have warned residents not to open their doors to strangers, and to keep doors locked at all times.

Some people say to keep a gun ready in case of an attack. Deadly force can be used to protect one's family and property in such cases, but often there is no time to grab a gun when a home invasion occurs. Even getting to the phone to call 911 can be impossible in a surprise attack. So what do you do?

You can get tips that tell you not to look the robbers in the face, not to make them mad, to do whatever they say and hope they will leave you unharmed. Others will tell you to fight any chance you get with everything you have. You can listen to the advice and come up with a plan for any given situation. You can make sure weapons are available in case you do get an opportunity to defend yourself, and you can get a home security system so you're not surprised.

According to statistics, a security system in your home helps to deter home invasions, and a home without one is 2-3 times more likely to be invaded. If you don't already have a security system, you might want to consider one now. A quick search found one local company offering a monitored alarm system for less than a dollar a day, and that price included installation.

If you do have one, use it always. Home invaders can quickly pull into a driveway during a time least expected, even during the middle of the day when neighbors are nearby. Their quickness and blatant disregard for who might challenge them can make them almost unnoticeable as they approach your door and enter.

If they bust into your home despite an alarm, at least you will know security is notified and help is on its way.

The following resources offer additional tips in case of a home invasion. Be prepared, as it could happen to you.