I've had a few arguments with some freepers who would simply blast away at a shadowy figure in their home. Even though it could be their own child sneaking around, they think they have it coming. Sad. You shouldn't automatically shoot in many cases, it will result in grief from authorities and lawsuits.
A “shadowy figure” isn’t a threat, unless it’s pointing a gun at you or someone you care about, charging at you with a weapon, ect....ect.
I have lots of children in my house. I’m not gonna go and open fire just because I hear someone walking in the middle of the night. Of course, everyone’s home situation is different, and security is done on a case by case basis. If I lived alone and heard someone walking in my house at 3AM, you can bet your ass I’m gonna be at DEFCON1. LOL