What to Do if Someone Breaks into Your Home

Having someone break into your home can be a terrifying experience. It's important to know how to handle this situation calmly and effectively. Having a Frontpoint Home Security System is a great way to deter potential break-ins. But if someone does break-in to your home while you are there, it is important to be prepared and know what to do. Here are some steps to take if someone breaks into your house:

1. Stay Calm and Quiet

It's natural to feel scared and anxious, but try to stay as calm and quiet as possible. This will help you think clearly and make better decisions in the moment.

Focus on Your Breathing

Take slow, deep breaths to help regulate your heart rate and keep your mind clear. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this process to help calm your nerves.

Stay Positive and Reassuring

If you are with others during the break-in, try to remain positive and reassuring to help keep everyone calm. Encourage each other to stay quiet and follow safety protocols while waiting for assistance.

Prepare in Advance

Consider creating a safety plan for potential break-in scenarios ahead of time. Knowing what to do in an emergency can help you react more calmly and effectively if the situation arises. Practice your plan with your family members to ensure everyone is prepared.

2. Call 911

Use your phone to call emergency services and call 911 as soon as you can. If you have access to a panic or safety button, activate it immediately. With a Frontpoint security system, our monitoring center will call immediately and dispatch if a sensor is compromised, saving you valuable time. If on the line with 911, inform the operator that someone has broken into your home and provide your address. Stay on the line with the operator and follow their instructions. Providing them with as much information as possible is the most helpful to the situation. Continue to stay on the line with the operator for guidance on how to stay safe until help arrives.

3. Find a Safe Place to Hide

If possible, move to a secure location within your home where you can hide and avoid confrontation with the intruder. Stay quiet and try to remain as still as possible while you wait for help to arrive. Do this if you can do so safely and wait until help arrives. This could be a locked room with a sturdy door or a closet with a lock. Stay quiet and avoid confrontation with the intruder.

4. Do Not Confront the Intruder

It's important not to confront the intruder yourself. Your safety is the top priority, so avoid any direct contact with the person who has broken into your home. Do not attempt to confront the burglar or take matters into your own hands. Your safety is the top priority, so it's best to avoid any direct interaction with the intruder. Focus on staying hidden and protected until help arrives.

5. Gather Information

If it is safe to do so, try to gather information about the intruder. This could include their physical description, any weapons they may have, or the direction they are heading if they leave your home.

6. Stay on the Line with 911

Remember again, if you can, stay on the line with the 911 operator until help arrives. They can provide you with guidance on how to stay safe and secure until the authorities reach your location.

7. Follow Police Instructions

When the police arrive, follow their instructions carefully. Provide them with any information you have about the intruder and cooperate fully with their investigation.

Remember, your safety is the most important thing in this situation. Stay calm, follow these steps, and let the authorities handle the situation. It's always a good idea to have a plan in place for emergencies like this, so take the time to discuss safety measures with your family and loved ones.

FAQ Overview: What to Do If a Burglar Breaks Into Your House While You're Home

What should I do immediately if I hear or see someone breaking in?

Stay calm and quiet. If you're near a safe escape route, leave the house immediately and call 911 from a safe location. If escape isn’t possible, hide in a secure room, lock the door, silence your phone, and call 911 quietly.

Should I confront the intruder?

No. Avoid any confrontation. Most burglars want to get in and out quickly. Confronting them increases the risk of violence.

Where should I hide if I can't escape?

Choose a lockable room with a solid door (like a bedroom or bathroom).
Stay out of sight, turn off lights, and keep quiet. Use furniture for cover if needed.

What should I say when I call 911?

Give the dispatcher:

• Your address

• That there's a burglary in progress

• Where you are hiding

• Any description of the burglar (clothing, race, gender, voice)

• Whether you're alone or with others

Stay on the line unless instructed otherwise.

What if the burglar finds me?

If you’re discovered:

• Try to remain calm

• Do not make sudden moves

• Don’t try to grab a weapon unless absolutely necessary

• Comply if they demand items — your safety is more important than possessions

Should I have weapons ready?

Only if you are trained and legally allowed to use them. Improper use can escalate the situation or result in harm to yourself or others.

How can I prepare in advance for such a situation?

• Set up a home security system

• Have a safe room plan

• Keep a charged phone nearby at night

• Discuss a safety plan with family members (especially kids)

• Keep important items in a secure, hidden place

What should I do after the intruder leaves?

• Call 911 if you haven't already

• Don’t touch anything the burglar may have touched

• Leave the home if you feel unsafe

• Wait for law enforcement and give them a full report

Can I legally defend myself during a home invasion?

Laws vary by state. Some have “castle doctrine” or “stand your ground” laws. Know your local laws before acting in self-defense. Always prioritize de-escalation and safety.

How can I mentally recover after the incident?

A home invasion is traumatic. Consider:

• Talking to a therapist or counselor

• Practicing self-care and stress relief

• Rebuilding your sense of safety with added security measures

Frontpoint keeps homes safe whether families are there or not. To shop DIY home security systems, check out our products page. If you have questions or would like to discuss a quote, contact us at 855-866-4409.