Your Essential Guide After a Break-In
1. Breathe
Stay Composed: The first moments after discovering a break-in are critical. Take deep breaths to steady yourself. Keeping calm helps you make clear-headed decisions and reduces the chance of panicking.
Assess Your Surroundings: Quickly look around to ensure there is no immediate threat before proceeding with the next steps.
2. Call the Police and Ensure Your Immediate Safety
Leave the Premises: If you suspect the intruder might still be inside, do not enter or stay in the house. Find a safe location, such as a neighbour's house or your car.
Call Emergency Services: Dial 000 and report the break-in. Provide as much information as possible, including your location, any suspicious individuals or vehicles, and a description of what you observed. Ask the dispatcher if it is safe to remain where you are and seek their advice on immediate steps to take.
Wait for Police: If intruders are still on the premises or their whereabouts are uncertain, stay in a safe location until authorities arrive and confirm the area is secure.
3. Do Not Touch Anything
Preserve the Scene: Avoid cleaning up, touching disturbed areas, or moving items. This helps police gather useful forensic evidence.
4. Document the Damage
Take Photos: Capture clear images of all damage and missing items for your records and insurance claim.
List Stolen Items: Compile a thorough inventory of missing items, including estimated values if possible. This list will be crucial for both the police and your insurance provider.
5. Secure Your Home
Once the police have cleared the scene, take immediate steps to secure your property:
Repair Broken Doors or Windows: Use temporary fixes, such as plywood or heavy-duty tape, if professional repairs can't be made right away.
Change Locks: If keys were stolen, replace all locks promptly.
Inform Neighbours: Alert your neighbours about the incident so they can be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
6. Make a Detailed Report
This step may take place sooner, depending on when the police arrive.
Speak to Officers: When the police arrive, provide them with a detailed account of what happened and list any items that appear to be missing or damaged.
Request a Copy of the Report: This will be important for insurance claims and ongoing investigations.
Follow Up: Keep in touch with the police for updates on your case and provide any additional information they might need.
7. Contact Your Insurance Provider
File a Claim: Notify your insurer about the break-in as soon as possible. Provide the police report, photos, and your inventory of stolen items.
Understand Your Coverage: Ask your insurer about timelines, next steps, and what repairs or replacements they will cover.
Keep Records: Document all communications with your insurance provider for reference.
8. Take Care of Yourself
Talk About It: It’s normal to feel shaken after a break-in. Speak with family, friends, or a professional about your experience. Sharing your feelings can help you process the event.
Regain a Sense of Control: Taking proactive steps to improve your security can help you feel safer. Focus on actionable measures you can take immediately.
Consider Professional Help: If the emotional toll is significant, don’t hesitate to consult a counsellor or support group.
9. Strengthen Your Home Security
Conduct a Security Review: Evaluate your home's weak points and take steps to address them. Our Vulnerability Identification and Strategies package is specifically designed for situations like this.
Get Professional Advice: Bolster Home SAS offers expert advice for your home’s specific needs, helping you avoid unnecessary expenses while enhancing your safety.
Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a response plan for potential future incidents, including escape routes and emergency contact details.
By following these steps, you can address the immediate aftermath of a break-in and start rebuilding your peace of mind. Remember, help is available, and there are ways to make your home safer for the future.
