How do you cope with safety vs. everyday local news?

[Regina]

So, I was wondering what all of you guys do to stay normal after hearing the local news? I actually don't have an antenae on my t.v., so I only see limited news that is on the internet, but it is just so depressing.

For example, I am so scared for my kids because you see all these things about pedophiles that are getting bolder and bolder. Just last week, someone broke into a home while the parents were there and violently abused a 10 year old girl....the parents were asleep in their bedroom while this happened. Then you have these serial killers that talk about how they stalk their victims, find their patterns, and wait inside their home for the victim to come home. These pedophiles say that they go to the park, grocery, library, etc. just so they can look at children and take pics of them for their sick fantasies....I can go on and on about what I have been reading in just local news.

I feel like it is getting dangerous to even take your kids out anymore. So, my question is: where do you reach the point of a safe medium and not being psychotic about protecting yourself and your kids from all these sick individuals. Yes, I realize that they are the minority, but I hate to take chances either. Especially, all of us have husbands that go on overnights most of the month. Do you guys ever get scared at night? What do you do to keep safe? What other precautions do you do for safety? Yes, we have a gun, and I would use it in a heartbeat if anyone tried to hurt my kids, but what other things do you do? Do you lock the door even during the day? Do you ever keep your garage door open? We do have a dog, but he seems to be scarred of his own shadow at night! Any advice about what you guys do and when safety goes too far would be appreciated...

Thanks, in advance,