Home Security Beat

How to Answer the Door Safely

Do you know how to safely answer your door? It’s especially important to know the protocol for this if you have children, because how are they going to know when it’s okay to answer the door if you’re not present? Opening the door to a complete stranger only invites trouble. The person might be completely innocent and just trying to sell you something, or they might be plotting to commit burglary or other crimes. Follow the steps below the next time you think about answering your door.

• Avoid answering the door instinctively. Even though someone rings the doorbell a couple times or knocks, it doesn’t mean that you have to run and answer it. First, think about whether you’re expecting visitors and also consider if it’s an appropriate time for a person to be ringing your doorbell.
• Try to peek out your window or peephole to see who is outside. If you have surveillance cameras on your computer, you will probably be able to determine who it is more easily without the risk of having the person see you. However, cameras can be expensive, so even if you install a wide angle peephole, you will have a better chance at seeing the people who come to your door.
• Don’t answer the door if you can’t see the person. Although door chains are helpful, they are not 100 percent effective. Once you open the door, the person on the other side could easily force his/her way inside and break the chain.
• Ask the person’s identity. Maybe you weren’t expecting anyone, but someone from the electric company has to speak to you about the electrical lines on your property. Request identification and call the company to ensure that this person works for them. Then and only then answer the door. Remember, use a number from the phone book or online directory and not a phone number that the stranger gives you.
• Keep your cordless home phone or cell phone with you at all times when you answer the door. You should have your local police department’s phone number on speed dial.
• Never answer the door if you feel uncomfortable. Just tell the stranger that it’s not a good time. Then you can call the police if the person refuses to leave.

Opening the door to random visitors can be dangerous, and it’s wise to go over these steps with your children. Even if you’re a stay at home parent, your child could open the door to a stranger while you’re in the garage or down in the basement. Anything can happen, which is why it’s best to prepare yourself and your family.

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