Do not try to be a hero. Take no action that would jeopardize your own safety. Follow the robber’s directions, but do not volunteer more than he asks for. Advise the robber of any unusual moves you must make. Assure him you will cooperate. If possible, activate the alarm only if you can do so safely without detection.

Make a mental note of the robber’s race, age, height sex, clothing, complexion, color of hair and eyes, etc. Note anything unusual about the robber, such as scars or tattoos. Note the number of accomplices and how they left the premises, direction of travel, type and color of the car and the license number.

Note type, size and color of the weapon. Watch where the robber puts his or her hands or whether he or she touches anything. Fingerprints might be left behind.

Call the police immediately after the robbery. The person who calls the police should be able to stay on the phone if the dispatcher requests.

Lock all doors and ask all witnesses to remain until the officers arrive. If a witness must leave, obtain his or her name and address. All witnesses should write down a description of all the suspects. Do not discuss the robbery or compare notes about the robber’s appearance with anyone. Protect the crime scene. Do not touch anything. If you were given a note by the robber, handle it carefully. Hold it by the edges so that fingerprints on the paper will not be smeared. Put it in a safe place and keep it for the police. This is an important piece of evidence.

Be Informed Be Prepared. Actively participate in all training sessions offered to become thoroughly familiar with your home safety plan. Have a plan. Mentally review as often as possible the actions you must perform if confronted with an emergency. The plan should become “second nature” to you.