Why You Shouldn’t Set Traps for Burglars

Home security is an important factor to consider in any residence. Some people think it may be wise or even fun to set booby-traps to possibly catch a burglar in the act. While there are not only a number of legal reasons not to attempt to trap a burglar, but there are also some potentially dangerous repercussions involved.

Nonetheless, some individuals still decide to design and set their own traps for burglars. No one is saying that you shouldn’t defend yourself from intruders. You just shouldn’t set a premeditated trap for what you think could or might happen. There are countless solutions to deter criminal activity on your property, the main one being a monitored home security system. Here are several reasons that might make you think twice before setting a trap for a burglar.

Booby Traps or Homemade Security Systems are Illegal

The primary and perhaps most important reason to avoid an attempt to trap a burglar is the fact that it is illegal. A booby trap may be defined as any concealed or camouflaged device that is designed to cause bodily injury or harm when triggered by any action of a person contacting the device or trap. This term includes guns, ammunition, or explosive devices attached to trip wires or other triggering mechanisms, sharpened stakes, nails, spikes, electrical devices, lines or wires with hooks attached, and devices to produce toxic fumes or gases.

While it’s a commonly held belief that you can act in self-defense if an intruder enters your home, if you aren’t careful, you may find yourself facing legal action. For example, if you create a trap to protect your property from intruders, you will be liable for any injury or death even to an unwanted intruder such as a burglar. Even if you don’t think what you have designed to keep people out is dangerous, if an intruder is injured or harmed because of a seemingly harmless booby trap, you will be at risk of being held responsible for any damage it might cause.

Homeowners are better off investing in legal and effective alternatives, such as a monitored home security system, which not only deters criminals but also ensures a swift response in case of an emergency. Prioritizing safety over DIY solutions is the key to providing comprehensive protection for your home and loved ones.

Avoiding Personal Risk from Unnecessary Danger

Why allow the possibility of putting yourself and your family at risk? Instead of relying on DIY traps, consider the more effective and secure option of a home security system provided by industry leaders like Brinks Home™. Even the most ingeniously designed trap cannot match the reliability and comprehensive coverage of a 24/7 professionally monitored security system trusted by over 1 million Americans.

How to Scare Off Burglars without Harming Them

There are some legal things you can do to deter burglars. When used in conjunction with a professionally monitored home security system, they can give you peace of mind that your home is protected. Additional burglar deterrents include:

• Motion-Detecting Lights: install lights outside your home that are triggered by motion, deterring burglars and illuminating potential entry points.

• Securing Doors and Windows: ensure all doors and windows are locked when you're away, creating an additional barrier against unauthorized entry.

• Timed Indoor Lights: use timers for your indoor lights to create the illusion of an occupied home, dissuading potential intruders.

• Security Signs and Decals: display signs and decals indicating your property is protected by a monitored security system, acting as a visible deterrent.

• Pet Presence: have a dog or at least display a "Beware of Dog" sign, suggesting the presence of a potential obstacle for intruders.

• Security Cameras: install either real or fake security cameras around your house, creating a visible surveillance presence.

• Bells on Doors and Windows: place bells on doors or windows to alert you when they are opened, providing an audible signal of potential intrusion.

Leave it Up to the Professionals

All these suggestions are safe ways to enhance the security of your home without facing possible legal repercussions. We recommend you use these suggestions in addition to having a monitored home security system.

There is satisfaction in being able to catch an intruder who intends to do you wrong. However, it’s better to have the benefit of a professionally designed system. This reduces the risk of your own safety or the safety of others.

A monitored home security system is also the best solution for keeping your home and family safe. Brinks Home keeps over 1 million Americans safe with their best-in-class 24/7 professional monitoring backed by a certified Five Diamond emergency response center. You can trust your home with a customized security system specifically built and tailored to fit your needs with support from security experts. Contact Brinks Home today to get started and claim your free quote.