Safety tip - Don't answer your door

I never answer my door for anyone I don't know. It's dangerous and unnecessary. Most of the people that will come to your door are there to waste your time anyway.

This is a branch off of hierarchy of defense and how to hide in plain sight. It fits in with the Prevention stage.

I get solicitors, campaigners and all sorts of folks knocking on my door. I don't answer for any of them. I will get up and go to the door to check out who is there through the peep hole, but I don't even say anything through the door to them. Unless I can tell it's a neighbor or think it's someone in trouble I won't say a word.

If it is a neighbor or you think someone is in need of help then speak through the door - do not open it. Ask them what they want. I usually say "can I help you?". Even if it is someone you know, be careful: most violence comes from people you know.

I'm not saying be paranoid. If you're friends with the person and you know their intent then fine. Just use good judgment and be alert.

For those of you wondering if you should answer for cops (United States specific):

• Don't talk to the police.
  
• Don't let police in your house and never consent to a warrant-less search.