Call 911 and do what you have to in the process. Better if you let law enforcement know what is going on. If you are in a position that you can't call 911 do what you have to then call.
"Perhaps shell look into Tennessees weapons laws and decide to protect herself and her daughter with the help of Mr. Colt, Mr. Glock, or a number of other fine gentlemen on call day or night."
"Why dont they ever just go out the back door while the intruder is kicking down the front?"
A good idea but not always possible. What if the intruder is not alone and someone is at the back door as well? Having a weapon and knowing how to use it is the best defense.