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 in order 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, there are also some potentially dangerous repercussions involved.   Nonetheless, some individuals still decide to design and set their own traps for burglars.  No one’s saying you shouldn’t defend yourself from intruders. You just shouldn’t set a premeditated trap for what you suspect might happen. There are countless solutions to deterring 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 are Illegal 

Perhaps the 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  designed to cause bodily injury when triggered by any action of a person making contact with the device. 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 for the production of 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.  In essence, if you set-up such 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. 

You Don’t Have To Put Yourself In Danger 

Why allow the possibility of putting yourself and your family at risk? Instead, consider a home security system from Brinks Home Security™. Even the best home-designed trap isn’t going to be as effective as a security system provided by a company that is an industry leader in smart home security. 

How to Scare Off Burglars without Harming Them

There are some legal things you can do to deter burglars. When using 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: 

• installing motion detecting lights outside your home 

• locking your doors and windows 

• putting your inside lights on a timer when you’re away 

• placing security signs and decals on the exterior of your property 

• having a dog or at least a “beware of dog” sign 

• installing fake (or real) security cameras around the house 

• putting bells on your door or windows to notify you when they open 

Leave it Up to the Professionals 

All of 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.  

Krista Bruton is a DFW-based writer who covers smart home security and consumer protection.