Do you feel unsafe at home? It’s an unsettling sensation, one that should be taken seriously. Thankfully, there are easy-to-implement strategies to help protect your family and property from unwanted intruders, such as barricading a door that opens inwards.
Barricading a door that opens inwards is slightly different from barricading a door that opens outwards. In the latter, you can wedge an object before the door to prevent it from opening. However, this technique won’t work with inward-opening doors, as the pressure will simply push the object away.
In this blog post, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to barricade a door that opens in – so you can rest assured that any security weaknesses will be covered when it comes to keeping your loved ones safe.
What Will You Need?
Before diving into the steps, gathering all the necessary materials is important. These include:
- A sturdy chair or table
- A heavy object such as a weight or dumbbell
- Some strong cord or rope
Once you have these items, you’re ready to start barricading your door.
10 Easy Steps on How to Barricade a Door That Opens in
Step 1: Position the Chair or Table
Initiate the process by placing the chair or table against the door. If you’re using a table, make sure it’s turned on its side with the top part facing the door. The chair or table should be positioned in such a way that it backs up against the door, making it harder for anyone to force the door open. Do ensure the chair or table you select is sturdy enough to withstand substantial force.
Step 2: Add Weight
Next, place a heavy object, such as a weight or dumbbell, on the chair or table, adding additional weight to the barricade. Place the object on the seat or as close to the backrest as possible if you’re using a chair. The idea here is to make it difficult for an intruder to push the door open from the outside. The extra weight helps to increase the resistance against the door.
Step 3: Secure with Rope
Now, take the strong cord or rope and fasten it securely around the top of the chair or table and to the door handle. Ensure that the rope is tied tightly, adding further resistance to any external forces trying to push the door inward. Remember, the goal is to make the door as difficult as possible to open from the outside.
Step 4: Double Check Your Barricade
Once you’ve secured your barricade, step back and inspect your work. Ensure the chair or table is sturdily positioned against the door, the heavy object is securely placed, and the rope is tied tightly. Try to open the door yourself to ensure the barricade holds up under pressure. If the door opens easily, you must adjust your barricade accordingly. Remember, the effectiveness of your barricade will largely depend on the strength of the materials you use and how well they are positioned.
Step 5: Reinforce with Additional Furniture
Add more furniture to your barricade. Items such as bookshelves, dressers, or large appliances can all be used to fortify your barrier further. Push these items up against the chair or table already in place. The added bulk and weight will make it even more difficult for an intruder to force the door open. Remember to place the heaviest items at the base of your barricade to prevent it from being easily toppled over.
Step 6: Use a Door Wedge
A door wedge or doorstop can be useful in your barricading process. Push it under the bottom edge of the door from the inside, ensuring it’s snug. This can help reinforce the door and provide an extra resistance layer, especially if the door is forced. The wedge should be made from a sturdy material like rubber or wood to prevent the door from opening effectively.
Step 7: Add Extra Security with a Security Bar
A security bar is a sturdy metal bar that can be adjusted to fit the length of the door. It’s positioned under the door handle and braced against the floor, creating a strong vertical barricade. To install it, adjust the length of the bar so it fits snugly under the door handle, then ensure the other end is firmly grounded on the floor. This tool can greatly enhance the strength of your barricade, making it even more difficult for an intruder to push the door open.
Step 8: Install a Door Barricade Bar
A door barricade bar is a horizontal bar that fits across the door, providing another security layer. You will need to install brackets on either side of the door frame, which the bar can then slide into. These bars are often made of steel and are highly effective at preventing intruders from being able to push the door open. Please note this step requires some level of handiness, as you’ll use a drill into the door frame to secure the brackets. If you need more time to do this yourself, consider hiring a professional.
Step 9: Supplement with a Deadbolt Lock
A deadbolt lock can provide an extra level of security. These locks are harder to pick or break compared to standard doorknob locks. If your door doesn’t have one, consider installing a deadbolt lock above your existing one. When engaged, it extends a strong metal bar into the door frame, which helps resist forced entry. It’s worth noting that installing a deadbolt lock requires some technical skill and may need professional help. However once installed, it can significantly enhance your door’s overall security.
Step 10: Regularly Check and Maintain Your Barricade
Lastly, regular maintenance and inspection of your door barricade are crucial to ensure its effectiveness. Over time, materials can wear out or become less sturdy, and ties or ropes might loosen. Therefore, periodic checks are essential. Ensure all barricade components are in good condition and replace any items showing wear and tear. Also, practice setting up and removing the barricade to ensure you can do it quickly and efficiently in an emergency. After all, your safety and security depend on the reliability of your barricade.
By following these steps and using the recommended tools, you can effectively barricade a door that opens, providing additional protection and security for you and your loved ones.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Use Heavy Furniture: Position the heaviest furniture you can move in front of the door. This could be a couch, bookshelf, or desk. The aim is to obstruct the path of the door.
- Jam a Doorstop Under the Door: A simple doorstop or wedge can provide enough friction to prevent the door from opening inwards. Place it under the gap between the door and the floor.
- Tie the Doorknob: If the door has a doorknob, you can tie it to a heavy furniture item using a strong rope or belt. This prevents the doorknob from turning and opening the door.
- Use a Security Bar or Rod: Security bars or rods can barricade the door from the inside. Place one end of the bar on the doorknob and the other on the floor at an angle.
- Remove the Door Handle: If possible, unscrew and remove the handle. This will make it difficult for someone outside to manipulate the door. Always ensure you have a plan for re-entry before using this method.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can make your barricade even more secure. Remember always to prioritize safety and have a backup plan in case of emergency.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Unstable Barricades: Ensure the furniture or items you use to barricade the door are stable. An unstable barricade can easily be pushed over, rendering it useless.
- Refrain from Relying on Lightweight Items: Lightweight objects will not provide substantial resistance against a forceful entry. Always opt for heavier, sturdier items to secure the door.
- Avoid Blocking Your Exit: While barricading, ensure you’re not trapped in a room without an alternate exit. Always have a plan B in case you need to leave quickly.
- Don’t Ignore Door Hinges: If the door opens inwards, the hinges will be on your side. Ensure they are secure and not easily removable. An intruder could remove the hinges to gain access.
- Avoid Damaging the Door Unnecessarily: While removing the door handle can be a good strategy, avoid unnecessary damage to the door that might be difficult or expensive to repair afterward. Always consider the consequences of your barricade methods.
Avoiding these mistakes can ensure a more effective and safe barricade.
Conclusion
All in all, having the proper barricade for a door that opens inward can give you peace of mind that your home will still be safe even in the most trying of times. Knowing how to barricade a door that opens in is essential to ensure that you and your family are as secure as possible. Each type of barricade has its benefits and drawbacks, but once you’ve installed it correctly, you’ll know that your safety is not to be taken lightly.
So take some time today to look into the best option for YOUR home. Come up with a plan for installing and maintaining it. You don’t need to take on this task alone – reach out if you need help installing or researching options!
Knowledge is power, so arm yourself with the right crowd control accessories and ensure your family remains safe.
