What to Do if Someone Is Outside Your House at Night

If you notice someone outside your house at night, it's important to stay calm and take appropriate steps to ensure your safety. Here’s a guide on how to handle such a situation:

1. Stay Calm and Observe

• Don’t Panic: It’s natural to feel anxious or scared, but staying calm will help you make clear decisions.
• Assess the Situation: Try to determine whether the person is acting suspiciously. Are they loitering, attempting to enter your yard, or simply passing by?
• Stay Out of Sight: Avoid confronting the individual. Instead, stay inside, away from windows or doors where they can see you.

2. Lock Doors and Windows

• Ensure Security: Double-check that all doors, windows, and entry points are securely locked. Make sure no one can gain access to your home easily.
• Close Curtains or Blinds: If you’re peeking through a window, close the curtains to avoid being spotted.

3. Turn on Exterior Lights

• Illuminate the Area: Turning on outdoor lights or activating motion-sensor lights can discourage someone from lingering around your property. Bright lights make it harder for intruders to hide and can make them think they’re being watched.
• Use Security Cameras: If you have security cameras, make sure they’re on and functioning. Cameras that are visible can also act as a deterrent.

4. Call the Police (Non-Emergency or Emergency)

• When to Call: If the person’s behavior seems suspicious or threatening, don’t hesitate to call the police. If they’re simply walking by, there’s no need to involve authorities immediately, but always trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
• Give Clear Details: Provide as much information as possible, such as the person’s appearance, any unusual behavior, the time, and your location.

5. Avoid Confrontation

• Don’t Approach the Individual: It’s important not to confront the person yourself. Approaching a stranger outside your house, especially at night, could escalate the situation and put you in danger.
• Stay Inside and Stay Safe: Let the authorities handle it if the situation warrants further action. They are trained to assess and deal with potential threats.

6. Consider a Security System

• Invest in Security Features: If this type of incident becomes a recurring issue, it may be worth investing in additional security measures like a home security system with cameras, motion sensors, and alarms. These can provide extra peace of mind and offer additional deterrents against intruders.

7. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy

• Have a Plan: Ensure that your family members or roommates know what to do in case of an emergency. Keep a list of emergency contacts easily accessible.
• Know Your Local Emergency Numbers: Besides the general emergency number, have a non-emergency number for local authorities handy in case you need to report a suspicious situation.

8. Document the Incident

• Take Notes: If the person is still lingering or acting suspiciously, make note of any relevant details that could help the police, such as their appearance, vehicle (if applicable), or any strange behavior.
• Security Footage: If you have cameras or a doorbell camera, check the footage for any helpful details that could assist law enforcement in their investigation.

9. Consider Your Neighbors

• Alert Neighbors: If you’re concerned about the person outside your house, let your neighbors know, especially if you live in a tight-knit community. They can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity around their homes too.

Conclusion

Seeing someone outside your house at night can be unsettling, but knowing how to respond can help ensure your safety. Remain calm, lock all entry points, and observe from a safe distance. If the situation feels threatening, don’t hesitate to contact the police. Investing in outdoor lighting, security systems, and building a relationship with your neighbors can also improve your home’s security and peace of mind. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, take action to protect yourself and your home.