Have you ever been so emotionally involved in a television show that you have called the cops to your house? Probably not, but I have. I am a huge criminal minds fan, and the show is so well produced that I easily put myself in the position of the characters in the show. While the victim in the show was being chased with a knife, I heard a loud thud in my house downstairs. Being home alone, and only 15, I took about three minutes to pause my show and work up the courage to go downstairs.

When I finally began cautiously walking downstairs I noticed my dog peacefully sleeping and nothing out of place, all good signs, then I noticed the back door of my home was wide open, not a good sign. After seeing the door open, my mouth opened even wider as I held in a scream. I ran upstairs, without my dog (yes, I love my dog, but every man for himself sometimes). When I got upstairs I locked myself in my room with my cell phone. Most people would think to call the cops when they think they are in danger, but not me. Who do I call then? I call my mother. As I wait for her to pick up I hear creaks in my house and fear someone is walking around. Finally she picks up the phone and listens while I tell her what I saw. After a long four second pause I heard her say, “I will be home soon, but if you really feel the need you can call 9-1-1” As I heard more creaking in the house, I felt the need. I hung up with my mom and called the police.

“9-1-1 what’s your emergency?” the operator calmly asked me. I honestly answered, “I am not really sure, but I think there is someone in my house. I don't know though.” I proceed to tell the operator my horrific story, as she creates a three-way call with both of my parents while we wait for the police cars to arrive.

The three cops came into my home and searched every room possible, turning on every light in my house and checking every possible hiding space. After securing the area they yelled, “Sara it is safe to come out now.” Embarrassed, I finally open my bedroom door to find one cop petting my dog and the other explaining that no one was in my house. The cops concluded that my dog was probably outside and hit the door to let herself in. Realizing they were probably right I said, “Sorry, thank you!” and after assuring me that they get these calls “all the time” they left.

Needless to say I no longer watch criminal minds when I’m home alone, but still love it all the same. Criminal Minds is a well thought out show with new, creative crimes each episode. I love the show for its acting and the effects that scared me enough to call the police. I recommend Criminal Minds, but also recommend a binge-watching buddy who will either share the embarrassment of calling the cops with you, or calm you down. If you haven’t already, go check out this awesome show, and whenever you get scared just think at least you aren’t me.