Whenever you have to call 911 and officers are on the way, make sure you ask the dispatcher to tell you the officer’s names that are coming.
That way, when at your door you can confirm it is indeed the cops. There are gangs that pretend to be officers to gain access to a home. While we like to think we will not be fooled, some of these gangs are very good at what they do. Always confirm the identity of anyone wishing to gain access to your home.
Keep a handgun ready at all times, either by having it on your person or close enough to grab it instantly
. Having several handguns stashed about the home for fast access offers another advantage (provided they are only accessible by trained, responsible adults).
If you do have small children in the home
you must be certain that the handgun is secure against their inquisitive nature.
Many families opt to use tools such as high-quality gun magnets to have a gun at the ready and still hidden in plain sight. A gun magnet can be secured to the wall, under a desk, behind the bed, next to the door, and in many more locations with little effort.
You could also loop a holster belt and holster over the bed. Know that one hand will stabilize the holster while the other will draw the gun. This is a trade-off between speed and accessibility.
When it comes to quick access to a weapon versus safety considerations, give it some thought. Consider your own personal situation and do what is best, accordingly.
Remember this, you are the first line of defense for your family when an intruder comes to your home. The police are the second line of defense. Think hard about home readiness and make your decisions on these things beforehand. Have a plan in place. Practice getting your gun quickly. Practice making it ready.
Your life, and your family’s lives, may hinge on your intelligent preparation.