[Professor S]

Looking at the thread, I think we are all creating situations that are sympathetic to our position. I'm assuming the worst; a serial murderer/rapist in the dead of night with the lights off. Those in opposition seem to be assuming the best of the situation; a strung out unfortunate just trying to get cash for his next hit.

In any case, I think its a mistake to assume the intention of the invader. No one can read minds. So instead, lets list the potential situations and appropriate responses.

Your home is invaded/you think your home has been invaded

1) Call the police

2) Retrieve you firearm from its secure but easily attainable location, turn off safety

3) Turn on as many lights as possible from upstairs

3) Check on loved ones to make sure everyone is secure and it isn't anyone living there who has made you think your home has been invaded.

4) Announce from the top of the stairs that you are aware of the invasion at the top of the stairs, and that you are armed and have called the police. Advise that the invaders are to leave immediately if they don't want to get shot or arrested.

5) Remain at the top of the stairs, shotgun aimed towards the first floor, and wait for the police to arrive.

In most cases, I believe this how the situation would be resolved. The gun gives you the opportunity to cut off points of entry to the upper level without directly confronting your assailant. Without the gun, I feel I would be forced to confront the invader because without a weapon/firearm I'm a sitting duck.

You are confronted by the invader

In this situation I think the biggest factor is whether or not you could get the lights on. If the lights are on, you can see the invader and make split-second judgment calls on intent of action. Without lights, anything could be threatening.

Lights On

Aim the weapon at the invader and yell "Don't move!" If the invader stops, ask him to put his arms in the air and remain there until the police arrive. If the invader makes a break for it, let him go. If the invader makes a move towards you or takes any action you make think could be to pull a weapon: Shoot.

Lights Off

You see a silhouette of a man moving. Yell "Don't move!". If the man stops, turn on the lights and wait for the police to arrive. If the man moves: Shoot. In the dark, I can't honestly say I could safely assume any intent of action, and I am forced to assume the worst.

Do these situations sound reasonable? If not, what would your alternatives be?