When a stranger knocks on your door, it can be uncomfortable or even frightening, no matter what time of day it is. We usually see an uptick in door-knocking activity during the warmer months, especially the weeks before election day.
The person who knocks at your door may not intend to break down your door, but they still could pose a danger, especially if they’re gathering information for a future break-in.
To keep yourself and your home safe, here are some things you can do when a stranger knocks. These tips will also help you handle the door knockers during election season!
It is essential to ensure your door is locked as soon as you hear someone at your front door.
Burglars may knock on your door to see if anyone is home before breaking in. There are, however, some burglars who will try to break into your home whether or not you are home. As a result, making sure your door is securely locked is a crucial first step.
Suppose your security app notifies you that someone is at your door while you are not home. An excellent security option is a smart lock. You can lock your door via your smartphone, so you don’t have to physically approach it to lock it, whether you’re at home or away. Smart locks are very popular in the Richmond, Virginia, area.
After you’ve checked your door is locked, take a look through your peephole, a window, or your video doorbell camera to see who’s at your front door.
The best way to see who’s outside your house is by using a video doorbell camera or a smart security camera that is pointed at your front door. Security cameras provide a clear picture when connected to your smartphone, making them an ideal modern peephole.
Make sure you check out who has approached your home, regardless of the method, to see whether they are someone you can trust.
In any case, don’t let your guard down. Stay vigilant, even if a woman and her child are outside your door.
You should speak with the person at your door, so if it is a potential thief, they know the house is occupied and may not attempt to enter. If someone is at your door, use the two-way speaker via your video doorbell camera to speak with them or speak with them through the locked door.
There is no obligation for you to open your door.
Also, remember it is important not to let your guard down. Scammers and thieves sometimes pretend to be in danger or need help to get you to open the door.
If they claim to be injured (possibly from a vehicle accident), tell them to remain calm while you call 911.
For example, if they claim to be a service person from the cable TV company, it is wise to let them know they need to schedule an appointment by calling you first. Without an appointment, no professional should visit your home.
Video doorbell cameras provide the convenience of speaking with the person through the built-in speaker and microphone rather than opening your door if they claim they are unable to hear you through the door.
Do not open your door, regardless of the story. Keeping yourself safe is better than being sorry. The use of the video doorbell camera is one of the best ways to handle door knockers.
Police should be contacted if you’ve done all of the above and the person leaves abruptly.
Alternatively, if you’ve asked the person to leave, but they continue to stand outside or become restless or aggressive, you should call 911.
To help the police, try to remember their appearance, clothes, distinctive features, where they went, and what kind of vehicle they drove. Etc.
It may be possible to help the police find the person if you have a video doorbell camera or security camera.
A “No Soliciting” sign is an additional deterrent for door knockers. It’s a clear message that you want to be left alone. The sign will likely turn off most salespeople, but others may not see it or ignore it completely. Despite their constitutional right, salespeople must obey local laws and ordinances regarding solicitation in Richmond, Virginia neighborhoods.
Avoid being scared or annoyed by unwelcome visitors and random door knockers. Take advantage of these tips and have the latest security features, such as a video doorbell camera with two-way communication and smart locks. Our goal at Johns Brothers Security is to make you feel more comfortable and protected in the Richmond, Virginia, area. Let us help you find the right home security solution for you with our state-of-the-art technology and experienced security team! Contact us today at 1-800-242-9760!
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