Here's How Americans Are Protecting Their Homes and Families From Invasions

Our homes are where we go to after a busy day at work, and it’s where we feel comforted and secure since we’re surrounded by familiar objects and the people who matter the most in our lives. But are we truly safe at home? According to recent data, more than 3,000 burglaries happen in the US everyday, and one burglary occurs every 26 seconds. 

Being burgled can be a traumatic experience, and it can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional wellbeing and sense of safety. For these reasons, most people are now taking matters into their own hands and are actively employing strategies to protect their belongings and loved ones from burglars and robbers. Here’s how Americans are protecting their homes and families from invasions. 

Guns and Firearms

Gun ownership is at an all-time high in the country as 32 percent of Americans say that they personally own a gun. Although 30 percent say that they own a gun for sport shooting purposes, three-quarters of all gun owners say that they have one for their personal protection. Since the Second Amendment guarantees the right to bear arms, it’s entirely reasonable to own a gun to protect yourself from being a victim of burglaries. 

Gun laws in the US vary from state to state, so if you’re thinking about getting one, be familiar with your state’s gun laws. Some states will require a permit or a license to purchase firearms, so if you need one, you’ll need to submit an application for a Federal Firearms License. You’ll likely be approved if you’re 21 years of age or older, and if you haven’t violated the Gun Control Act in any way. You’ll also be required to complete a firearm safety training course and undergo a comprehensive background check. Once everything checks out, only then can you purchase a gun or firearm of your choice. 

According to family-owned firearms business Husky Armory, those who are thinking of owning a gun should always purchase one from a reputable seller. Check their reputation and reviews, and see to it that they have the knowledge to answer all your questions regarding handguns, ammunition, and other firearms. 

Self-Defense Tools

Not quite ready to own a gun? Consider having a few self-defense tools to guard your home against robbers and burglars. While a well-aimed hit with a baseball bat can do some considerable damage, you may also want to think about having a few non-lethal self-defense options such as stun guns or tasers, pepper sprays, a pepperball tactical compact pistol, or folding knives. Just like guns, the demand for self-defense tools like these are on the rise due to the uptick in crime rates, especially against women. As such, the self-defense market is projected to reach a value of $8.46 billion in 2032 due to the increasing concerns for personal safety. 

Though these items are less lethal than firearms, keep in mind that you may be required to have a license to legally use some of them to safeguard your home. For instance, if you live in Florida or Connecticut, you’re required to have a license to carry a stun gun. Tasers are legal in all states except Rhode Island, while pepper sprays are legal in all 50 states. Every self-defense tool can be effective when used as intended, so you’ll only have to choose which tool to use if someone breaks into your home. Remember to take safety measures when using these self-defense tools, and get proper training to use certain items, like folding knives, to avoid self-inflicted injuries. 

Smart Home Security Systems

For most people, being vigilant is key to staying safe, and it’s why they use smart home security systems to monitor their abode. Due to the rise in property crimes, it is estimated that 50 percent of US homes have a security system. One of the most commonly used tech to monitor homes is the smart doorbell camera. With it, homeowners can catch porch pirates as it provides them valuable visual information to identify package thieves. A smart doorbell camera may also deter would-be intruders from entering a home since homeowners are notified through an app if there is someone at their door. Other types of home security systems that may help to ward off thieves include motion sensors, glass break sensors, and smart locks.

Every person should feel secure in their own home. Protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property with firearms, smart technology, or self-defense tools, and always follow the rules to use these items legally and safely.