Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation
Responding appropriately to unexpected nighttime visitors is crucial for your safety and security. In emergency situations, such as natural disasters or civil unrest, intruders may attempt to take advantage of chaos and confusion. Knowing how to handle nighttime knockers can prevent potential threats and protect your home and family.
What You Need
- A well-lit area near your door
- A phone or other communication device
- A security system or alarm
- A weapon, such as a firearm or pepper spray (if you are trained and licensed)
- A window or peephole to see who is at the door
- A loud noise maker or whistle
- A neighbor or friend’s contact information
Step-by-Step Instructions or Key Techniques
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Stay Calm and Gather Information: When you hear knocking, remain calm. Use a peephole or window to see who is outside without opening the door. If you do not have a peephole, turn on a nearby light to illuminate the area near the door. This will allow you to see who is there without revealing your presence inside.
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Ask Who It Is: Speak through the door to ask who is there and why they are knocking. Do not open the door. If it is someone you know, ask them to identify themselves and state their purpose. If it is someone you do not know, ask them to identify themselves and their purpose. If they are unable to provide a clear and reasonable answer, do not open the door.
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Verify Their Identity: If the person claims to be someone you know, such as a friend or neighbor, ask them a question that only that person would know the answer to. This could be a pet’s name, a shared secret, or a specific detail about your life. If they cannot answer correctly, do not open the door.
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Use Technology: If you have a security camera, use it to see who is at the door. If you have a phone, call the person’s number to verify their identity. If you have a security system, use it to alert you to the presence of someone at your door.
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Alert Others: If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, call a neighbor, friend, or family member to come over and assist you. If you have a security system, use it to alert the authorities. If you have a loud noise maker or whistle, use it to alert others in your neighborhood to your situation.
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Do Not Open the Door: If you are unsure about the identity of the person knocking, do not open the door. If you feel threatened, call the police immediately. Do not engage with the person outside your door.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Opening the Door Without Verification: Always verify the identity of the person knocking before opening the door. Do not rely solely on their voice or appearance.
- Not Using Technology: Use your security camera, phone, or security system to verify the identity of the person knocking. Do not rely solely on your peephole or window.
- Not Alerting Others: If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, call a neighbor, friend, or family member to assist you. Do not try to handle the situation alone.
- Not Calling the Police: If you feel threatened or if the person knocking is acting suspiciously, call the police immediately. Do not wait to see what happens.
Variations, Tips, or Related Techniques Worth Knowing
- Have a Code Word: Establish a code word with trusted friends and family members. If someone knocks and uses the code word, you can be sure it is someone you know.
- Use a Door Chain: If you do decide to open the door, use a door chain to prevent the door from opening fully. This allows you to see who is there without allowing them to enter your home.
- Install a Security System: A security system can alert you to the presence of someone at your door and can be used to alert the authorities if necessary.
- Keep a Weapon Accessible: If you are trained and licensed, keep a weapon accessible in your home. If someone knocks and you feel threatened, you can use the weapon to protect yourself.
TLDR: Stay calm, verify identity, use technology, alert others, and call police if necessary. Do not open the door without proper verification.