Personal security is extremely important, especially in regards to your safety in your own home. However, there are people with malicious intentions who may seek to compromise the security you feel when in your residence. One specific type of criminal that infringes on these boundaries is referred to by the term “Peeping Tom”. A “Peeping Tom” is an individual that may have an obsession with watching you, usually while also trespassing on your property. These individuals can be dangerous, depending on their intentions. Here are some ways that you can help deal with “Peeping Toms”, as well as some methods you may use to protect yourself.
Cover Your Windows
Since a Peeping Tom gains satisfaction through voyeurism, the best way to discourage a Peeping Tom is to keep your windows covered. If you have Venetian blinds, this alone may not be enough protection to deter a Peeping Tom, especially since your silhouette may still be visible at night. Purchase heavy curtains for your window, which can be pulled to cover your windows at night. This can be an effective method to discourage a casual Peeping Tom.
Install Motion-Sensing Lights
Most Peeping Toms place a great deal of importance on remaining unnoticed, and may be discouraged if you install bright motion-sensing security lights around the windows of your home. These lights should be bright enough so that they clearly illuminate the area a significant distance away from your home. That way, any intruders onto your property will be detected by the motion-sensing lights, and may be discouraged from further criminal activities.
Call the Police
If, at any point in time, you spot a Peeping Tom outside your home, don’t hesitate to call 911. While it is possible that a Peeping Tom will never attempt to harm you, it is also possible that they are watching you with malicious intentions. In order to protect yourself, call the police as soon as you spot any intruders on your property. It’s usually best if you report a “Prowler” or “Trespassing Intruder” rather than a “Peeping Tom”, since most Police patrols may have a quicker response time in arriving at your home.
Protect Yourself
In the interest of preparing for a worst-case scenario, it’s best if you have some sort of protection readily available inside your home. If you are comfortable with owning a small handgun, be certain that you are confident enough that you can use it to protect yourself in a stressful situation. If you wish to seek alternative methods of protection, you can purchase mace, pepper spray or a pocket taser gun. These tools can be used to distract or deter a potential Peeping Tom if they decide to cross the line and enter your home.
Interesting Fact
The phrase “Peeping Tom” is actually derived from the legend of Lady Godiva, an Anglo-Saxon noblewoman. According to the legend, Lady Godiva rode naked through the streets of England as a protest to her husband imposing high taxes. The only person who dared to look on her as she rode, a man named Tom, was struck dead at the sight of her, as punishment for his voyeurism. The legend is subject to interpretation, as some claim that Tom was merely blinded at the sight of Lady Godiva. Her legendary ride through the city is immortalized in many sculptures, painting and popular culture icons, such as the logo for Godiva Chocolate.
