Former FBI Special Agent—Clint Van Zandt |
Clint Van Zandt
As a law enforcement figure, father, husband and grandparent I feel being aware of your surroundings wherever you are is vitally important to the safety and security of you and your family. The perception that
our homes are not the secure safe havens they once were is real. One only has to enter the words “home invasion” in an internet search of current news to confirm this alarming statistic.
Wikipedia defines a home invasion as “the crime of entering a private and occupied dwelling, with the intent of committing a crime, often while threatening the resident of the dwelling”. And unlike a burglary, home invasions
are more likely to occur at night and weekends and often committed by more than one criminal. Those who perpetrate such crimes usually have the element of surprise on their side. As in situations where you are in unfamiliar surroundings
you should rely on information and knowledge when making decisions at home as well.
There are a number of simple measures that you and your family can take to help protect against being victimized in your own home. The most obvious measure is to exercise caution when opening the door to a stranger. The problem is that
visitors can show up at your door without warning. One can find themselves balancing security with concerns of appearing to be rude. A housekeeper or baby sitter is at a further disadvantage because they are not as likely to recognize friends
and guests who would otherwise be welcome. Children, excited by the arrival of visitors, are often the first ones to run to the door and can be at greater risk.
Although most homes have security alarms they are not likely to be armed when you and your family are at home and especially when there is lots of activity. Having a plan in place and a response to someone you do not recognize are part
of what should be a “total approach” or “attitude” about security. Once again knowledge, information and preparation are so important.
I believe the Invisible Gate drive alarm takes security to a new level by providing an early warning of cars, trucks and other vehicles entering your property. Being alerted in advance, you are now better prepared to answer the door. This
is especially helpful for women and children because they are the ones who are home alone when most visitors come and go each day. Seniors too can benefit because they may not move as quickly or hear as well.
I am also an advocate of security lighting and motion detectors. Once again, the Invisible Gate takes security lighting to a new and heightened level. You will never return to a dark home or a dimly lit pathway because lights in and around
your property are automatically activated the instant you enter the drive. The animated fashion that your lights come on make it appear as if the home is occupied and the lights have been manually switched on. This can provide an especially
powerful deterrent to crime at night because a “would be” perpetrator has lost the element of surprise. Even someone who innocently or inadvertently enters your drive is likely to stop and think twice before proceeding.
Large homes and those with longer driveways are good candidates for this very unique and effective device. We have come to know Jim & Shelly personally. They and their system are highly recommended.
As a former agent I am frequently asked to be a spokesperson or provide endorsements for security related products and services. In every case I decline. My appearance and the comments I make on this site are based on my own personal experience
using the system and were provided without compensation or consideration of any kind.
Dr. Van Zandt retired from the FBI in 1995 after 25 years of service, ending his career as both the FBI's Chief Hostage Negotiator and a Supervisor in the Bureau's Behavioral Science (aka Silence of the Lambs)
Unit. Upon retirement, he started Van Zandt Associates which provides behaviorally oriented crisis management consulting services to the corporate security world. Dr. Van
Zandt is also a well-known television and radio guest and commentator on various issues concerning personal and family security, abnormal psychology, aberrant behavior, and law enforcement.
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