Unfortunately, many South Africans come home to discover that their place has been broken into. Even worse, some are victims of home invasions when someone (or everyone) is at home – and these burglaries can sometimes become violent and traumatic. It’s difficult to think straight when a home burglary happens, but here are some things you need to do if it ever happens to you or your loved ones.
4 things to do after experiencing a home burglary
1. Check that everyone is OK
People are always your top priority. If anyone was at home when the burglary took place, check where they are and if they are all right. If they are in a state of shock or panic, do what you can to reassure them and create calm. If they are injured, try to stabilise them and get them to professional medical care as soon as possible.
Remember to also check on your animals, as they too could have been hurt in the burglary and may also require medical attention.
2. Start calling
Once you’ve checked everyone is OK and assessed the situation, it’s time to get in touch with your security company and/or the police, an ambulance (if needed) and a family member, friend or neighbour who can assist you. Having someone who can calmly and rationally help you process everything is a good idea.
Here are some emergency numbers to have on hand:
Police: 10111
Ambulance: 10177
Cell phone emergency: 112
Once you have made the necessary calls, it is best to leave everything exactly as is (so as not to compromise any evidence) and try to go to a neighbour’s home until the police and/or your security company arrives. You may also decide to take a loved one to the hospital or doctor, or a pet to the vet.
3. Get through all the admin
Probably one of the most frustrating things about having your home burgled is all the administration that one has to do. It is the last thing you will feel like doing, but make sure you do the necessary police reports, insurance claims and other paperwork in an effort to put the ordeal behind you as quickly as possible.
4. Add additional layers of security
Adding additional layers of security after your home has been broken into will not only help prevent another burglary, but it will also help give you peace of mind. Sadly, a home burglary can perpetuate a feeling of fear, which is certainly not what you want to feel when home is supposed to be your safe haven.
Chat to the King Brands team today about putting some additional layers of security in place. Our products include:
King Trellis retractable security barriers
King Fix static security barriers
King Swing solid security gates