So if I had to shoot a home invader, and I know how to give medical aid, should I actually do it? I feel like legally this could go either way, and I don’t know if it’s smarter to just wait for an ambulance instead. What do you all think?
In first aid training, they teach you to avoid becoming another victim. I’d assume the home invader is still dangerous and let the professionals handle it when they arrive.
@SkywardSorcerer
A lot of officers also don’t have experience with hand-to-hand combat, which makes it even riskier.
@SkywardSorcerer
And they usually shoot first and worry about it later.
Don’t do it. What if they attack you again? What if there’s another intruder? Your safety and your family’s safety should be your top priority.
Ivy said:
[deleted]
I’ve read advice on how to handle 911 calls after a self-defense shooting. Keep it simple. Don’t say too much, just enough for them to send help. For example:
- Your name and location
- That you were the victim of a crime
- Request for police and EMS
- What you’re wearing so officers can identify you safely
Confirm your address before hanging up and wait for help to arrive.
Ivy said:
[deleted]
Tell the dispatcher you’re the homeowner and the victim of a home invasion. Request ambulances, but don’t go into unnecessary detail. When officers arrive, say you’ll provide a full statement after speaking with your attorney.
@Jade
Make sure the firearm is unloaded and in a safe condition. Don’t put it back in a safe where police might need to force it open. Keep it visible and secure.
Someone once said, ‘If they need aid, you stopped shooting too soon.’ Not saying it’s the best advice, but it’s something to think about.
Carmen said:
Someone once said, ‘If they need aid, you stopped shooting too soon.’ Not saying it’s the best advice, but it’s something to think about.
I’m not using my first aid skills on someone who just tried to hurt me.
Find a safe spot and wait. Let the professionals take care of the situation. There’s no need to put yourself in more danger.
Ethically, call 911 and let them handle it. That’s the only ‘aid’ I’d offer in that situation.
I wouldn’t even go near them. They could still have a weapon or try to hurt you.
Stay back. Even trained police officers wait for backup after shooting someone because it’s still risky to approach.
Dead men can’t sue you. That’s harsh, but true. If they’re in your house, your safety comes first.
If they’re still alive, toss them an aid kit from a safe distance and wait for help.
Dead men tell no tales. It’s better if there’s only one story—yours.
First aid training teaches that you should get consent before helping, unless someone is unconscious. That said, in this situation, it’s smarter to stay back and call for help.
If you had to shoot, make sure the threat is fully stopped. If they’re still breathing, they could still hurt you.
If you render aid, it could show a jury you didn’t mean to kill them. If you don’t, it’s justified as protecting your own safety. Either way, your actions need to be based on what’s safest for you.