Do You Answer the Front Door When Someone Is Knocking While You Are Home?

Every homeowner faces the dilemma of answering the front door when someone is at it while they are at home, even if they cannot see whether anyone is inside. This becomes a critical decision when safety and security are paramount. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of answering the door, and offer practical tips on how to stay safe while handling such situations.

Understanding the Scenario

When someone is knocking at your door while you are home, there are typically three scenarios to consider:

The visitor can see that the house is empty from the outside. The visitor cannot see whether the house is occupied or not. Someone is secretly inside the house, but you cannot see them from the outside.

Each situation presents a different level of risk, and your response should be tailored to the specific circumstances.

Security Measures to Consider

Maintaining a high level of home security can help you feel more secure and make better decisions. Here are some steps you can take:

Install a peephole or security camera. A peephole allows you to see outside without opening the door. A security camera can provide additional information, and it might even deter the visitor from an intent to cause harm. Have a set of keys hidden in a safe location. Ensure that you or a trusted family member has a spare set of keys hidden in a secure place such as a lockbox or a garden shed, away from prying eyes. Keep your doors locked. Unlocking the door unnecessarily can put you at risk. Make it a habit to keep your doors locked, even when you are home. Do not share your home security system code. Keep your home security system code or PIN personal and never share it with others.

Handling the Situation

Let's delve into how to handle each of the scenarios mentioned earlier:

Scenario 1: The Visitor Can See the House is Empty

If the visitor can see that the house is empty, the risk of an unsuspecting individual walking in increases. In this case, you should not open the door. Instead:

Assess the situation through your peephole or security camera. Respond through the door or window using a nonthreatening voice, asking who is at the door. Provide a non-committal answer to avoid giving too much information.

Scenario 2: The Visitor Cannot See Inside

If the visitor cannot see whether the house is occupied or not, the situation is more ambiguous. You could:

Continue to ignore any knocking or ringing, even if the visitor persists. Respond in a nonthreatening manner from the safety of your home and ask who is there. Utilize a security device, such as answering a call through another device, to see if the visitor is legitimate.

Scenario 3: Secretly Inside

This scenario is the most dangerous. If you suspect that someone might be inside, you should:

Keep the door locked and do not open it to anyone. Call the police if you are concerned about the situation. Use a security system or motion detectors to alert you of any movement inside the house.

Preventative Measures

Prevention is key to maintaining house safety. Consider the following preventative measures:

Secure the front door. Use a deadbolt and ensure that it is properly locked. Be wary of suspicious behavior. Pay attention to any unusual or aggressive behavior displayed by visitors. Use a home security system. A security system can provide constant monitoring and alerts. Inform the neighbors. Keep your neighbors informed of any concerns or unusual situations in your neighborhood.

Conclusion

The decision to answer the front door when someone is knocking can be a challenging one. By taking home security measures into your own hands, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with strangers at the door. Always remember to prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones. Stay vigilant and proactive in protecting your home and property.