HOUSTON – As the holidays near, the crooks are lurking around neighborhoods and possibly targeting homes to invade -- even while some homeowners are inside.
There have been two reported home invasions in the Houston area so far this week. Both were caught on camera.
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In northwest Houston, a man was captured on video inside a home walking around with stolen items in his hands. The man broke into the home around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday while one of the victims was home. The victims left the house and went to a neighbor’s house, where they called 911.
On Wednesday, a family who lives in Upper Kirby says their home was broken into. The homeowner, a mother of two, said her family heirlooms, passport, kids’ birth certificates and other valuables were stolen while they were home. The suspect reportedly pretended to be a tree trimmer for a neighbor’s property and asked for permission to come inside.
While that suspect and the family stood outside in the backyard, another suspect snuck inside through the front door and ransacked the home, the homeowner said.
It may seem obvious to call 911, but surprisingly, many people do not know what to do first before - or during - a home invasion.
Here’s what the Harris County Sheriff’s Office recommends:
- Residents should always inquire who is on the other side of the door before opening.
- Call 911 if that person does not leave.
- Buy security camera for inside and outside the home. The Sheriff’s Office said the retail market for door cameras are very inexpensive and easy to install.
Even with these steps provided by law enforcement, many people may still panic.
What advice would you give a homeowner to protect themselves before and during a home invasion?