As Hurricane Milton approaches west central Florida, there are concerns about potential looting as highways are backed up with evacuees. Governor Ron DeSantis warned potential criminals that they will face serious consequences if they try to break into homes in the aftermath of the storm in a Second Amendment state like Florida. Geoff Fahringer, a law enforcement veteran, suggested ways homeowners can protect their properties from burglary during such events. Making it look like someone is home, displaying fake alarm and camera systems, and forming an action plan with neighbors are some of the strategies Fahringer recommended to deter criminals.
Fahringer advised homeowners to leave lights on and play music to make it appear as if someone is present, even during a power outage. Additionally, he suggested purchasing fake cameras and alarm system stickers as affordable deterrents. Forming an action plan with neighbors can help keep an eye on each other’s properties and deter potential burglars. Fahringer emphasized the importance of making noise to alert the neighborhood of strangers and suggested using a compressed airhorn to ward off burglars and alert neighbors.
In a Stand Your Ground state like Florida, homeowners have the right to use firearms to protect their properties in the event of a break-in. However, Fahringer stressed the importance of taking training classes to learn how to use a firearm safely and effectively. He warned against relying on what people see in movies or TV shows and highlighted the need to understand the laws surrounding the use of deadly force. By taking classes on weapon handling and familiarizing themselves with the laws, homeowners can effectively protect their properties in the event of a burglary.
The threat of looting during severe weather events like hurricanes is a serious concern for homeowners in Florida. Governor Ron DeSantis’s warning to potential looters about the consequences of committing crimes in a Second Amendment state serves as a deterrent. Geoff Fahringer’s advice on home security measures, such as making properties appear inhabited, advertising fake alarm and camera systems, and forming action plans with neighbors, can help prevent burglaries. By being prepared to use firearms, taking training classes, and understanding the laws surrounding self-defense, homeowners can protect their properties effectively in the wake of Hurricane Milton.
Overall, the key to preventing looting during hurricanes lies in preparation and collaboration with neighbors. By making their homes less appealing to burglars, homeowners can reduce the risk of break-ins in the aftermath of severe weather events. Awareness of self-defense laws and proper training in firearm use are essential for protecting properties in Stand Your Ground states like Florida. The importance of community vigilance and communication cannot be understated in deterring criminals and safeguarding neighborhoods during times of crisis. By following these guidelines, homeowners can increase their security and decrease the likelihood of falling victim to looting during hurricanes like Milton.
