I have
family on the force although I've never been a cop myself. But here's my take on the cop issue:
The PD enforces the law primarily by making arrests. And more often than not, an arrest is made AFTER the crime is committed. Not BEFORE, or even DURING. Yes sometimes that happens too, but not usually. The PD also acts as a deterent too. Now you might think that's not true because of all the crime that you read abut in the newspapers. But believe me, if you were to do away w/your local PD tomorrow, I gaurantee you that within weeks, and possibly even days, the streets would be utter chaos because criminals would know that there's no possibility of any consequences other than vigilante acts.
So my whole point is that even though I'd never suggest that it's wrong to call 911 when you suspect someome attempting to break in your house, I do think that it's unrealistic to expect the PD to protect you from that happening in the first place. There just isn't enough police officers around for that.
That's what Mr. Smith & Wesson, and Mr. Mossberg 12 gauge is for. Now ofcourse lethal force should only be used as a last resort, and to defend your life and/or well being, as well as that of your family. Firearms cannot legally be used to defend your belongings or your property, but when and IF your life is being threatened, then it's unrealistic to hope that a police officer can arrive BEFORE you lose it.
I take no joy in having to state these things, but that's the reality of it.