Yes, it does seem as though home invasions are increasing in frequency.
The one in OK seemed to be in part because the perps were high on drugs.
I wonder if there are any factors that make a home more or less of a target, or are these things just so truly random that an invasion could happen at any home, at any time.
For example, I would think they would be more likely in an area where houses are not close together. However, that doesn’t seem to be the case necessarily. I often read about the creep breaking out the glass in a door. You would think this would happen only when the home is relatively far from other homes. But, no, I have seen it happen right on a cul-de-sac, with normal suburban homes crammed close together.
And are there any stats on whether these acts are mostly done when the perps are under the influence (and thus much more dangerous and well as more random in their behavior) or do they tend to be somewhat planned out and carried out in cold blood?
Is it of any value to use a security system alarm when the home is occupied as well as when it is unoccupied? It’s just not feasible for every person in the home to be packing at all times. Also a family member may be disabled and not have many options once someone gets inside the home.
Thoughts? Ideas?
I think you need to start a new thread - Target Hardening Your Home - it would be very worthwhile to see FReepers’ suggestions.
This boy and the young mother in OK show that a shotgun is the way to go if the bad guys actually come in - but they were lucky to have had warning and time - it didn’t happen while they were asleep, they didn’t walk in and surprise a burglar.
I tell myself I should walk around the house looking for signs of a B&E before I go in, but I don’t - especially in the dark, or the snow, or the rain, I wouldn’t. Just when I’m particularly paranoid - and I do listen to that little voice, just in case.
A 6’ fence around your yard; dog outside and inside; alarm always activated whether at home or not; two door foyer entry set-up hardened on the inside; camera system... I could go on and on. How much $$ do you have?
When I lived in Mexico I saw alot of 10’ walls with broken glass embedded in the top. Many times the access to the courtyard was through an outside and inside door system.