Home defense issue.

[asmo]

I still say a flash bang is the best option.

[TFOGGER]

Put a switch upstairs and downstairs that will allow you to electrify the staircase. Then all that is required is a shop vac to clean up the ashes...

[NightCat]

..Seriously a difficult location.

I'd like to see the rest of the house lay out if possible, even a rough sketch in Paint.

If you're at the top of those stairs, I see it as a great position to defend, the noise from any type of shoe moving up those stairs will be a great early warning system for you if you already suspect someone of entering.

Is that staircase the only way to reach that level? and I understand that the total number of armed occupants in the dwelling is 2? yourself and a female?

I think it's already been stated, but I would find the most easily defensible room in the house, or at least on your level. Preferably one with a window access to a roof.

I think in home defense situations the MOST important thing is a plan, so I think you're doing the right thing by asking the question...but I'd like to see a lay out to assess what room will be your best bet.

Then its up to you to have a plan, Know where you and everyone in your house will be going and make sure they know it, know where the light switches and phones are.

Im a fan of larger bathrooms for defense...Get the kids/family/etc in a bath tub or something, get them to stay prone and then defend the room...It's small, unattractive to an intruder and provides good strong materials for them to take cover behind.

but yea...ideal situation...Military flash bang nade....then go get the mother fuckers lol