Self Defence

Lately, I've been in conflict about what to do in self defence if someone broke into my house. I was advised to just hold a weapon and tell the intruder to leave, as if they are coming into the house just to steal stuff, they will usually chicken out and leave.

But what if they retaliate? What do I do then?

I know I should fight back, I don't want to die, but how much should I fight back. I want to live but I don't want a dead body on my hands.

I've contemplated on possible weapons. Knives? Threatening, but nope. Heavy pan? Yeah, but what if I hit them too hard? Head them hard enough on the head and they'll be dead instead of unconscious. Hands? Pft, I'm a weakling...

I was giving this box with a button that if I press it, it will make a loud noise and supposedly scare the intruder off. Yeah...but I need a second option.

So, nonexistant readers, what would you use as a weapon without commiting murder? Any suggestions?