A home invasion, also called a hot prowl burglary, is a sub-type of burglary (or in some jurisdictions, a separately defined crime) in which an offender unlawfully enters into a building residence while the occupants are inside.

When Home Doesn’t Feel Safe: Navigating Fear and Protection

Last night shook me. While I sat on my couch, lights on, TV playing, someone tried to get into my home. I heard them come through my gate, punch a code into my door, and then try the doorknob. Just as quickly as they came, they left.

I didn’t see them. I didn’t call the police—what could they do after the fact? Instead, I texted my daughter and called My Peace. His first response was that I should have looked out the blinds, let the intruder know someone was home. His reasoning? They were likely looking for an easy target—an unlocked door, an empty home.

We talked for an hour, and he understood my fear. He’s close by, but even if he had come, what could he have done? That’s when the real conversation resurfaced—how do I feel safe?

It was one thing walking to the bus in the dark, past unpredictable situations, gripping my pepper spray, taser, and personal alarm. But now, someone tried to come inside my home—my supposed safe space. I feel vulnerable. I feel violated.

The reality of crime in my neighborhood isn’t new—constant break-ins, gunfire, random attacks. But this time, it was my door.

So here I am, weighing my options. A Ring camera seems like a necessary first step. But the bigger question that My Peace and I have debated over the years has come up again: Should I get a gun?

It’s a tough reality to face. The idea that I even need to consider arming myself in my own home feels heavy. But what are the alternatives? I don’t have the option to move right now.

So I ask you—what do you do to feel safe in your home and community?

Because I’m still figuring it out.

LadyFlava of LadyFlavaNews

Sharing My Thoughts