What is a "safe room" or "panic room" and do I need one?

What is a "safe room" or "panic room" and do I need one?

Chris McGoey (President, McGoey Security Consulting) gives expert video advice on: What changes can I make to the outside of my home to prevent a violent attack by a stranger?; What is the most important thing I can do to prevent predators from entering my home?; Should I keep a gun in my home? and more...

For some people, it's important for them to have an area within their house where they can retreat in emergency. If someone's breaking down their door or a stalker is coming at them, they want to be able to retreat to a location in their house that is fortified. Whilst in this location, they will not only feel safe but also have the option of calling the police, if appropriate. These are typically called a "safe room" or a "panic room." The first step in making a "panic room" is to find a suitable door, often replacing an existing interior door with a "solid-core" door. This door should then be equipped with a lock, much like an exterior door, in order to allow you to safely take action against the intruder or stalker. The room should also be stocked with a variety of items which you may need in the event of an emergency. Pepper spray is something that should be considered and it's necessary to house a cell phone there also. The cell-phone should remain permanently on charge and ready-for-use. A phone attached to a landline may be vulnerable to disconnection. It may be a good idea to have defensive weapons in there, possibly a golf club, baseball bat or even a handgun. The idea is, by running to that room and closing the door behind you that you have all of the means and methods able to defend yourself and call for help.