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By Allison G. S. Knox
Contributor, EDM Digest
We often think of emergency management at the federal level, reacting to major disasters like hurricanes, floods and tornadoes that destroy towns and cities and uproot lives.
Emergency management, however, also includes numerous small-scale emergencies that occur on a daily basis. For example, 911 calls are small-scale emergencies that are usually handled by police and first responders.
Home invasions are another small-scale emergency. Unfortunately, they are all-too-common occurrences and require citizens to have real conversations about personal preparedness and safety.
No Community Is Crime-Free
Americans want to believe that they live in nice towns and cities with low crime rates. But it is a fact that no town or city is crime-free.
It is important to not live in a state of denial where your family’s safety is concerned. Such a Pollyanna attitude lessens personal safety and security.
Home Invasions Often Occur while Residents Are Home
The unfortunate reality is that many homes are broken into while their residents are inside. This is particularly concerning because anyone willing to break into a home while a homeowner is inside creates a potentially lethal situation.
Last month in Danbury, Connecticut, for instance, three thieves forced their way into an apartment at knifepoint at 5 a.m. The trio was later identified and arrested.
Education about Home Invasions Lessens the Danger for Households
One of the best ways to mitigate emergencies such as home invasions is for law enforcement to educate the public about basic home security precautions. Public school systems, for example, should hold discussions about personal and household security, so that students can learn ways to keep themselves safe even when they become adults.
The more education the public receives about home invasions, the better their understanding about personal security will be. You never know when that information will safeguard your home and family when someone knocks on your door at 5 a.m.
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