Yes, an event such as the Idaho murders is indeed exceedingly rare, but IMO a young person can learn so much from it by treating it as a cautionary tale.
Caveat: I AM NOT BLAMING THE VICTIMS.
Source for the following: me
WHAT A YOUNG PERSON CAN LEARN FROM THE IDAHO MURDERS:
1) If you have a sliding door, improve its security. (See my previous post.)
2) Keep windows locked, even the ones upstairs.
3) Keep doors locked, especially the external ones.
4) Install and use security cameras at each entry way, at least. A pair of light bulb cameras are easy to install and can be purchased on Amazon for about $40 (before tax) in the U.S.
5) Install an alarm system, if you or your parents can afford it.
6) Draw your curtains and blinds at night and while everyone is away from home so people can’t see inside your house. Add a curtain to your slider, as well.
7) If pets are allowed, get a large, protective dog for your house and make sure the dog can bark loudly.
8) Develop a cordial relationship with police so you aren’t afraid to call them when you are scared.
9) Manage your social media privacy settings so that only people you trust can view your content.
10) Learn first aid, including CPR (which includes checking and maintaining an airway). Learn how to recognize and respond to someone who is dangerously intoxicated. If someone has passed out, roll them into recovery position and call 911.
11) Create a well-stocked first aid kit and learn how to use it. Include doses of Narcan, and learn how and when to administer it.
12) Practice the 20-minute rule for alcohol consumption, and never drive or walk home while drunk.
13) Don’t walk or exercise at night by yourself, and always be aware of your surroundings. Even when with friends, carry a Mace or pepper spray canister with an alarm. If you must walk that large protective dog at night, do the same, and wear a head lamp if it’s very dark.
14) Vary your routine so a predator can’t predict your patterns.
15) Don’t prank your friends by pretending a truly dangerous thing is happening.
16) Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and know how to use it. Also keep a smoke detector in each room. (OK, these have no relevance to this case, but they are important).
17) Use CO monitors in each room.
18) Read Gavin de Becker’s classic, The Gift of Fear.
19) Take a self defense class and maintain your skills.
20) (I know, in my dreams): If you are in a party house, make a pact that at least one person will be sober each night. That person should confirm that all windows and doors are locked, the alarm is set, security cameras are working, and that no one is literally passed out drunk. If anyone is unconscious, check their airway, breathing, and circulation, and start rescue breathing and chest compressions, if necessary, while another friend calls 911. If your unconscious friend is breathing, roll them into recovery position, and call 911. Administer Narcan if your friend overdosed on a narcotic.
If anyone can think of anything else or can suggest a correction, please chime in!
