Heading off to college is an exciting chapter in life, but it's also essential to prioritize personal safety. One valuable tool that every college student should consider having in their self-defense arsenal is pepper spray. Here's why pepper spray is an excellent choice for college students looking to enhance their safety:
In conclusion, pepper spray is a valuable self-defense tool that aligns well with the unique needs and lifestyle of college students. Its portability, effectiveness, ease of use, non-lethal nature, legal accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and ability to complement self-defense training make it a must-have for students aiming to prioritize their safety on campus. During my 21 years in law enforcement, I have personally deployed pepper spray many times. From my personal experience as a law enforcement officer, I have found pepper spray to be very effective in a self defense situation. Embrace the power of preparedness and equip yourself with the versatile and reliable protection of pepper spray during your college years.
]]>The Marketing Myth: Many pepper spray manufacturers advertise their products based on the number of sprays a single canister can deliver. Claims such as "up to 10 sprays" or "50 bursts" may lead consumers to believe that they have multiple opportunities to deploy the spray against an assailant. However, this marketing approach overlooks the fact that the effectiveness of pepper spray depends on the duration and intensity of exposure to the target. You don't need to "save some for next time."
Understanding Pepper Spray Effectiveness: Pepper spray contains an active ingredient called oleoresin capsicum (OC), which causes temporary blindness, intense burning pain, and respiratory distress when sprayed on the face of an attacker. The effectiveness of pepper spray is not determined by the number of individual sprays but rather by the volume and concentration of OC delivered to the target.
The Reality of Pepper Spray Usage: In a self-defense situation, the goal of using pepper spray is to incapacitate the assailant and create an opportunity to escape to safety. To achieve this objective, it is often necessary to deliver a sustained and concentrated stream of pepper spray directly to the assailant's face. Simply spraying a few bursts may not be sufficient to deter an attacker, especially if they are determined or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The Right Approach: Contrary to the marketing myth, the appropriate response when faced with a threat that warrants the use of pepper spray is to deploy the entire contents of the canister on the assailant's face. This ensures maximum exposure to the OC and increases the likelihood of incapacitating the attacker long enough to escape. Additionally, aiming for the eyes and nose area can maximize the effectiveness of pepper spray and minimize the risk of collateral damage to bystanders. Since you are not going to be a perfect marksman, move the stream from side to side from left to right and right to left, covering as much face area as you can hit with the stream. Don't worry about how many blasts you have. Give them the entire payload.
Training and Preparation: Before relying on pepper spray for self-defense, individuals should undergo proper training and familiarize themselves with the operation of the canister. This includes practicing how to quickly retrieve and deploy the spray in high-stress situations. Additionally, it's essential to understand the legal implications of using pepper spray and to use it responsibly and in accordance with local laws and regulations. You can buy a training can (inert) of water first if you want to test it out before you find yourself trying to figure this out in the midst of an escalating situation. Practice makes perfect. Safety doesn't happen by accident.
Pepper spray can be a valuable tool for personal safety when used appropriately and effectively. By dispelling the marketing myth surrounding the number of sprays in a canister, individuals can better prepare themselves for real-life self-defense situations. Remember, the goal is not to conserve sprays but to incapacitate the assailant and escape to safety.
]]>The owners of Shield Protection Products are both dads and police officers. Our primary goal is to keep our families (and yours) safe.
Here are some important tips to discuss with your teenagers to help ensure their safety during Spring Break:
Set Clear Expectations: Start by setting clear expectations for your teenager's behavior during spring break. Discuss curfews, alcohol and drug use, and the importance of making responsible decisions. Remind them that their safety is your top priority, and encourage them to keep you informed of their plans.
Stay Together: Emphasize the importance of sticking together with their friends at all times. Advise them to avoid wandering off alone, especially in unfamiliar or crowded areas. Encourage them to use the buddy system and to look out for each other throughout their trip.
Be Mindful of Alcohol and Drugs: Discuss the risks associated with alcohol and drug use, especially in unfamiliar environments. Remind them of the legal drinking age and the potential consequences of underage drinking. Encourage them to make responsible choices and to know their limits if they choose to drink.
Know Their Limits: Encourage your teenager to know their limits and to trust their instincts. Remind them that it's okay to say no to activities or situations that make them uncomfortable. Encourage them to listen to their inner voice and to prioritize their safety above all else.
Stay Connected: Ensure that your teenager has a reliable way to stay in touch with you during their trip. Provide them with a charged cell phone and encourage them to check in regularly. Establish a plan for communication in case of emergencies and make sure they know how to reach you if they need assistance.
Be Aware of Their Surroundings: Remind your teenager to stay aware of their surroundings at all times. Encourage them to trust their instincts and to avoid potentially risky situations. Remind them to be cautious of strangers and to be mindful of their personal belongings to prevent theft or loss.
Plan Safe Transportation: Discuss transportation options with your teenager and encourage them to make safe choices when getting around during their trip. Remind them to use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps and to avoid getting into vehicles with strangers.
Pack Essentials: Make sure your teenager is prepared for their trip by packing essential items such as sunscreen, water, snacks, and any necessary medications. Remind them to carry identification and emergency contact information with them at all times.
Know Emergency Procedures: Review emergency procedures with your teenager and make sure they know what to do in case of an emergency. Provide them with important phone numbers, including local emergency services and the contact information for their accommodations.
Trust Them, But Stay Involved: Lastly, trust your teenager to make responsible decisions, but stay involved in their trip planning and preparation. Let them know that you're there to support them and to help them navigate any challenges that may arise during their spring break adventure.
By having open and honest conversations with your teenagers about safety before they go off on their spring break trips, you can help empower them to make responsible choices and prioritize their well-being. Encourage them to have fun, but also to stay vigilant and to make safety a priority throughout their travels. With the right preparation and guidance, spring break can be a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
]]>Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: One of the most effective ways to stay safe is to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to people and vehicles around you, trust your instincts, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or secluded areas, especially at night.
Trust Your Instincts: Your intuition is a powerful tool in assessing potentially dangerous situations. If something feels off or makes you uncomfortable, trust your gut and take action to remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible.
Practice Situational Awareness: Stay alert and observant in public places. Identify potential escape routes and safe havens, such as well-lit areas or businesses where you can seek help if needed.
Learn Self-Defense Techniques: Enroll in a self-defense class specifically designed for women. These classes teach practical techniques to defend yourself against attackers and increase your confidence in handling threatening situations.
Carry Pepper Spray : Keep it easily accessible, and familiarize yourself with how to use them properly in case of an emergency. Get in the habit of carrying it in hand when you walk through the neighborhood or across campus. Remember that pepper spray doesn't do you any good when it is in the bottom of your purse. You don't get to call for a time out in an adversarial situation.
Avoid Risky Situations: Minimize your risk by avoiding potentially dangerous situations whenever possible. Trust your instincts and choose safety over convenience, even if it means altering your plans or asking for assistance.
Use Your Voice: Your voice can be a powerful deterrent against attackers. Don't hesitate to shout for help or yell commands if you feel threatened. Drawing attention to yourself increases the likelihood of someone coming to your aid.
Practice Defensive Postures: Maintain a confident and assertive posture when walking alone. Stand tall, make eye contact with others, and keep your body language assertive to deter potential attackers.
Stay Sober and Alert: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction time, making you more vulnerable to danger. Avoid excessive drinking and stay alert when socializing in unfamiliar environments.
Trustworthy Contacts and Resources: Build a network of trustworthy contacts you can rely on in case of an emergency. Share your whereabouts with friends or family members when going out alone, and keep emergency contacts programmed into your phone.
By following these self-defense tips and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can significantly enhance your personal safety and reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime. Remember, self-defense is not just about physical techniques but also about being proactive, aware, and prepared to protect yourself in any situation. Stay empowered, stay vigilant, and prioritize your safety above all else. Safety doesn't happen by accident.
]]>Understanding the Risks: Elderly individuals are often perceived as easy targets by criminals due to factors such as physical frailty, slower reflexes, and potential cognitive impairments. Common threats faced by seniors include physical assaults, muggings, burglaries, and scams. It's crucial for seniors to recognize these risks and take proactive steps to mitigate them.
Physical Fitness and Mobility: Maintaining physical fitness and mobility is key to effective self-defense for seniors. Engaging in regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or tai chi, can improve strength, flexibility, and balance, making it easier to react to potential threats and avoid dangerous situations. Additionally, seniors should consider mobility aids or assistive devices if needed to navigate their environment safely.
Awareness and Prevention: One of the most effective forms of self-defense is awareness and prevention. Seniors should stay vigilant of their surroundings, especially in unfamiliar or potentially dangerous areas. Avoiding isolated places, especially at night, and staying in well-lit areas can help reduce the risk of becoming a target. Furthermore, being cautious of strangers and suspicious individuals, as well as securing personal belongings, can prevent opportunistic crimes.
Basic Self-Defense Techniques: While physical confrontation should be a last resort, knowing basic self-defense techniques can provide seniors with confidence and the ability to defend themselves if necessary. Simple techniques such as palm strikes, elbow strikes, knee strikes, and escaping from grabs or holds can be effective in disabling an attacker and creating an opportunity to flee to safety. It's essential for seniors to practice these techniques regularly to build muscle memory and confidence.
Seeking Professional Training: For seniors interested in learning more advanced self-defense techniques, seeking professional training from certified instructors can be invaluable. Many communities offer self-defense classes tailored specifically for seniors, focusing on practical techniques and strategies that are suitable for individuals with varying levels of physical ability. These classes not only provide valuable skills but also foster a sense of empowerment and community support.
Utilizing Technology and Support Systems: In addition to physical self-defense techniques, seniors can leverage technology and support systems to enhance their safety. This includes carrying a personal alarm or whistle, installing home security systems, and utilizing smartphone apps designed for personal safety. Additionally, maintaining regular communication with friends, family members, or neighbors can provide seniors with an extra layer of security and support.
Empowering seniors with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves is essential in today's world. By understanding the risks, maintaining physical fitness, staying aware of their surroundings, learning basic self-defense techniques, seeking professional training, and utilizing technology and support systems, elderly individuals can significantly reduce their vulnerability to crime and enhance their overall safety and well-being. Remember, self-defense is not just about physical strength but also about awareness, prevention, and confidence.
]]>Early Chinese and Japanese warriors developed ways to wrap pepper and spices to be thrown at an attacker
First developed in early 1960’s, by inventor Alan Littman after a co-worker of his wife was mugged in Pittsburgh, PA
1974 -pepper spray for law enforcement use was developed in Florida
1980’s- Postal workers began to carry pepper spray to protect themselves from aggressive dogs
1990- pepper spray was issued to FBI agents
1991-approximately 3,000 law enforcement agencies followed the FBI and began to issue pepper spray to police officers. The number continued to increase until pepper spray became standard issue for law enforcement.
The main active ingredient in pepper spray is oleoresin capsicum or “OC.” Actually, because of this fact law enforcement refers to pepper spray as “oc spray.” Oleoresin Capsicum is mixture derived primarily from cayenne peppers. The “OC” is then added to a water based solution and then pressurized so that it can be used as an aerosol spray. Pepper spray or OC spray comes in a variety of sizes and different deployment types. There are also slight variations that will affect the actual strength or heat of the pepper spray.
The effects of pepper spray can be very painful and disorienting but usually subside after approximately 45 minutes. The effects of pepper spray include:
While the effects of pepper spray are very painful, not everybody reacts the same way. There is a very small percentage of the population that can withstand the effects of pepper spray with very little noticeable reaction. Also, people under the influence of certain narcotics may not react to pepper spray while under the influence. When I was just starting out in my law enforcement career I came across an individual that showed very little reaction to being pepper sprayed. Because I had just graduated from the police academy and recently been sprayed myself I knew all too well how painful and disorienting it was to be pepper sprayed. When I sprayed this individual, I was in disbelief that he handled it so well. This caused me to spray multiple times when I should have recognized that there was no effect and transitioned to something else. Being aware that there is a small percentage of the population that can tolerate pepper spray will allow you to more quickly transition to another defensive tool if needed.
Pepper Spray comes in many different sizes and types. We will discuss the main differences that can be seen between different pepper sprays and also discuss the advantages and weaknesses of these differences.
Pepper Sprays come in a multitude of different sizes. Generally, there are key chain pepper sprays which are generally about .5 oz., 2 oz. pepper sprays, 9 oz. pepper sprays, and 16 oz. pepper sprays. There are pepper sprays on the market that are different sizes than the 4 I have listed but they are close enough in size to the listed pepper sprays that their advantages and disadvantages will be the same. Listed below are the advantages and disadvantages of each pepper spray:
0.5 oz Key Chain Pepper SprayThere are multiple ways in which pepper spray can be deployed. Generally, the deployment methods are stream, cone/fog, gel, foam. During my law enforcement career I have used all four of these methods. This has caused me to have my own personal preferences which I will discuss after listing the objective advantages and disadvantages of each deployment method.
Cone/Fog Pepper SprayThis deployment method is similar to how hair spray comes out when the canister is depressed. It dispersed small particulates that spread out and cover a large area.
Allow me to clarify some of the bullet points for the cone/fog deployment. Some of the listed disadvantages in certain cases can actually be advantages. However, for most situations they are disadvantages with certain exceptions, this is why they are listed in the disadvantage category. Let's start with the fact that it is greatly affected by wind direction. If you were to spray an attacker and happened to spray into the wind then the attacker would get the majority of the spray. However, there would also be a fair amount of spray that would carry back to you because of the wind direction and you would get some of the effects of the spray. This can also be an advantage in certain situations. For example, if you had multiple attackers or even an aggressive crowd then if you utilized the wind to your advantage the spray will carry and effect a larger number. In spraying with the wind the cone/fog will carry and a large number of people in the crowd will be affected by the spray. This would be true for people that did not even get directly sprayed or had several people between them and the source of the spray.
Cone Fog Application Variables
Cone/Fog not being ideal for confined spaces can also be an advantage in certain situations. There have been occasions when I have used this to my advantage as a police officer. For example, if we have someone who refuses to exit a vehicle it can be dangerous for both myself and the suspect if we engage in a physical altercation and attempt to forcefully remove the person. It is far easier to deploy pepper spray and let it fill the cabin of the vehicle. This works even if the person is not sprayed directly. Every time I have utilized this technique the person eventually voluntarily exits with no injuries since the effects of pepper spray are temporary. This is just as effective at clearing out a small room or home as long as enough spray is deployed to fill the space.
Stream Pepper SprayThe advantages and disadvantages of stream deployment also need some extra context and clarification. First, stream pepper spray will generally not get into a ventilation system as easily as cone/fog. Since the deployment is a concentrated stream, individual pepper spray particles don’t get airborne as easily as cone/fog. However, if the stream were sprayed near a vent or sprayed in an extremely confined space (like a car) then it could potentially get into the ventilation system although not to the extent that cone/fog would.
Additionally, the ability of an attacker to block the pepper spray stream can be negated by utilizing a figure 8 motion when spraying. This will also cover a larger portion of your attacker to ensure they feel the maximum effects of the spray.
Gel Pepper SprayMany people may not consider what type of trigger a pepper spray has when purchasing pepper spray for self defense. However, considering trigger type is an important factor to consider in your selection. Ensuring that you can easily and quickly engage the trigger is important. Additionally, in high stress situations people lose fine motor skills so selecting a trigger that requires gross motor skills will help ensure that you are able to deploy your pepper spray when you need it. Lastly, you definitely don't want your pepper spray accidentally deploying (trust me I have had this happen and it's not fun). A good safety mechanism to prevent your pepper spray from accidentally deploying.
Flip Top Pepper SprayThe pistol grip is only available on larger pepper sprays such as the 9 oz. and 16 oz. The grip extends downward and is held in the same style as a pistol. However it is actually deployed by pushing the actuator with your thumb like the flip top. However, there is no protective cover to flip up but instead there is a pin that must be pulled in order to allow the pepper spray to deploy. Pulling the pin is required for the pepper spray to become operable.
There are many sprays on the market that are marketed as ‘bear sprays” or sprays for aggressive wildlife. I have found no fundamental difference between these sprays and pepper spray marketed for defense against criminals. There are some differences but they are minimal. Some of the differences that I have found are: bear (animal) spray does not have UV marking dye which is common in regular pepper sprays. Bear (animal) spray is regulated by the EPA. Pepper spray used for protection from animal attacks has a limit to how “hot” it can be made. Regular pepper spray does not have this added EPA regulation.
How Pepper Spray Applicators effect Aggressive AnimalsAnother difference is you will not find bear spray in the smaller size canisters. I think the reasoning is pretty obvious. If you need to spray a bear in self-defense you want a lot of spray and you want to be able to spray from as far away as possible. The larger canisters provide both of these options. Bear spray is usually found in the 16 oz. and/or 9 oz. options. Personally, I wouldn't even consider carrying less than a 9 oz. if a bear attack was a concern. Now if you are concerned about aggressive dogs in your neighborhood than I think the 2 oz. spray if suitable. I have had to enter the backyard of many houses when executing a search warrant to ensure that no one ran out the back. In doing so I have come across many aggressive dogs and used my duty carry pepper spray (2 oz.) to successfully stop them from attacking.
I have tried to outline the different styles and features of most pepper sprays and even provide a little history. I believe that if you are going to carry any items for self defense that you must be knowledgeable of how they work and how to use them. Hopefully, this will serve to educate some people and encourage them to give some thought to different situations and the strengths of limitations of pepper spray and other self-defense tools in those situations. As far as pepper spray is concerned, I am often asked which is the best type to carry? My answer is it depends on the situation. Some of the pepper sprays are designed for more narrow range of uses but if used in those select circumstances they are highly effective.
For example, I don’t carry around a 16 oz. pistol grip pepper spray because its not very practical. However, if I had a large angry crowd surround me and wanted to disperse them without using deadly force, then 16 oz. pepper spray would be my go
to choice. I will tell you this, I carried a 2 oz. flip top pepper spray for many years while on the streets as a road patrol deputy. I found it to be highly effective and very ubuqiutous in its ability to be deployed in a myriad of different situations. It was small enough to easily carry on my duty belt. It had enough distance to spray an attacker and still maintain distance. It also had enough capacity to spray multiple attackers effectivley. Which pepper spray is right for you will depend on you and your circumstances. You may just find that just like with firearms the situation will dictate the best choice. This means that to carry the “best pepper spray” you need to have pepper spray options. Stay safe and remember your most powerful self defense weapon is your mind!!
John Hill is a 20 year law enforcement veteran and co-owner of Shield Protection Products. Learn more about the owner of Shield Protection Products: https://shieldprotectionproducts.com/pages/about-uss
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My two daughters had two friends spend the night on Friday. The following morning I had the responsibility of watching all 4 girls. So I did what any Dad would do in my situation loaded them up and took them to a playground and cut them loose. As I watched them play another family entered the playground. They had two boys who seemed to be a year or two older than the three 8 year olds in our group. Very quickly it was decided they would all play a game of tag.
As they began to run around the equipment, it became apparent that the two boys were choosing to not follow the rules that were listed at the playground. Primarily they would climb on top of the slides and jump over rails instead of using the stairs.
This gave them a decided advantage over the girls who generally are rule followers.
The girls very quickly became aware of the actions of the boys since they couldn’t go but for a few seconds without being tagged.
They protested and told the boys that climbing on the slides and jumping rails was not fair and was against the rules.
One of the boys got angry and yelled “ you are all idiots” right in their faces.
The girls seemed a little taken back by this and unsure of how to proceed. It seemed like a good time to take a break and eat lunch, so I called them to the table to eat.
While the girls were eating I asked them how the game of tag was going. They didn’t respond at first but then said “it’s okay.”
I didn’t tell him that I had seen the boy yell at them but instead I asked “is everyone being nice.” They replied that one of the boys had yelled at them and called them idiots.
** I do not believe in swooping in an getting involved in every conflict kids have, however, I do think it is important to use those conflicts as teaching points to empower them to handle conflict for the rest of their lives**
I asked the girls if they thought the boy should be able to yell at them and calm them names and they all answered with a “NO!”
After the girls were done eating, I asked them if they wanted to play some more before leaving. They all emphatically answered, “yes!!” As they went back to the playground they began to play a new game that they had talked about while eating lunch. All the girls knew the rules of the game and how to play. The boy who had yelled at them tried to figure out the game but could not. He tried yelling at the girls to get them to stop but they kept playing and ignored him since they had decided that he did not play nicely. Finally, this same boy walked over to his table and sat by his brother not knowing what else to do.
I called my daughter over and asked if it was okay if the boy played with them as long as he was nice. Without hesitation she responded “sure.” I suggested that all the girls approach the boys and explain the rules to them. They explained to the boys that they were welcome to play as long as they didn’t call them names and played nicely.
The boys joined the group and their attitudes and actions were completely different. They treated the girls respectfully and followed the rules of the game.
These four girls had been able to do what the boys mother was unwilling or unable to do. They corrected their behavior and got them voluntarily play by the rules of the group which included treating other kids kindly.
During the car ride home, I took the opportunity to talk with the girls about what happened on the playground. We talked about not letting other people treat you badly or with disrespect. We talked about how to handle these situations. I made sure the girls understood that by st kind together as a group the were able to not only stand up to the boy but change his behavior. We talked about other options the girls had or what they could have done if they weren’t with a group.
Our children often play with peers but this often happens at school when we are not present. Taking these opportunities to provide some guidance but ultimately letting our children handle conflict is critical to them having these skills as they become older. These skills are not important just for their safety but also in life as they will face conflict their entire lives. There is a time to step in and act as a parent and if things headed towards becoming physical then I definitely would have interjected myself.
However I think it is important to allow these moments to happen where you can observe but ultimately allow children to navigate conflict and advise them on the best course of action. These girls not only had a good time at the playground but they also learned the power of the group and that they do not have to tolerate certain actions from other people.
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https://fmcadventure.com/2022/02/14/5-essential-items-that-you-should-consider-keeping-in-your-rv/
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]]>How much time are you willing to devote to these trainings and how many products do you want to buy to adequately prepare yourself against all threats and emergencies. For many of us, we have a desire to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. However, few people want to spend every free moment training or every dollar to buy the latest self-defense or safety tool available. Even myself being a career law enforcement officer doesn’t want to spend every waking moment training or all my money on products to keep myself and my family safe.
I’m going to let you in on a little secret of how to greatly increase your chances of staying safe in an emergency or self-defense situation that takes little to no time and cost NO MONEY!! Are you ready for it?? VISUALIZATION, that’s right imagining, pretending, make believe. The thing that we all do as children when we are playing. If we have past experiences similar to a current situation then our brain automatically uses those past experiences as a play book for us to follow.
For example, when someone injured in a car wreck is brought into an E.R. the staff jumps into action. The fact that they have dealt with similar situations gives each person a detailed “mental playbook” that they have used many times. Everyone jumps into action without hesitation. However, take that same hospital staff and put them on a ship during a large storm when “all hands are on deck” and you will likely see them looking around in bewilderment with the confidence and purpose they had in the E.R. having completely left them. WHY?? They have no “mental playbook” for the situation so like many people they are likely to “freeze” or do nothing.
WHY DOES THIS MATTER TO YOU? Well, because you can’t experience (or at least shouldn’t want to) numerous violent attacks and emergency situations where your life and the life of others is at stake. What you can do is VISUALIZE them. I weave this into my everyday life. It has almost become a game or a way to past the time. While pumping gas, waiting to get a table at a restaurant, picking up my kids at school etc. Instead of burying my face in my phone and the world of social media, I take a few minutes to run through “what if’s”. “If this were to happen then I would do this.” Doing this doesn’t make me nervous nor does it consume me. It’s something I do so often that I almost do it subconsciously.
Science supports visualization and the important role it can play in performance not only in emergency situations but in many other aspects of your life. “Mental imagery impacts many cognitive processes in the brain: motor control, attention, perception, planning, and memory. So, the brain is getting trained for actual performance during visualization. It’s been found that mental practices can enhance motivation, increase confidence and self-efficacy, improve motor performance, prime your brain for success, and increase states of flow (Adams,2021).”
“Visualization activates the same neural networks that actual task performance does, which can strengthen the connection between brain and body,” explains neuroscientist Stephen Kosslyn, PhD, author of Top Brain, Bottom Brain (Juan DeMelo,2016)
So, not only does it add to your “playbook”, but it trains your body to physically respond in much the same way actual as live training.
Before you get to carried away…. visualization is important but you must build a foundation of skills, fitness, and tools (products) so that you can actually perform the same way you visualize. My recommendation: gain some self-defense knowledge, if you enjoy it then take some classes, maintain a certain level of fitness, and get some tools that will assist you in self-defense or emergency situations. Hint: Its better to have a handful of self-defense and safety tools that you are very proficient with than hundreds that you have never use. If you are interested in purchasing some of the tools you may need, we are available to assist you. Stay Safe and God Bless!!
References:
Adams, A.J. MAPP; Phycology Today 2021
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/flourish/200912/seeing-is-believing-the-power-visualization
DeMelo, Juno; Explore Health
]]>Before continuing, let me say right now that I am absolutely a supporter of the 2nd Amendment and believe in the right to carry a firearm for self-defense. I am not implying that people should not carry a firearm for self-defense or making an argument for lethal versus non-lethal forms of protection.
What I am saying is that when it comes to the issue of personal safety and protection that there isn't a "one size fits all" solution. The situation and circumstances will dictate what weapon or tool is best. Often times the best tool is being aware of the potential for danger or violence and avoiding it altogether.
Drawing a firearm when you perceive that there may be a potential threat has many consequences and ramifications. Draw the firearm in advance of an actual threat that rises to the level of deadly force and you potentially face criminal prosecution and civil liability. You may also escalate a nonviolent conflict into a deadly encounter by introducing a weapon into the scenario. However, being too slow to draw a firearm in a situation where it's needed could very well be the last mistake that you will ever make.
Imagine you accidentally rear-end the car in front of you at a stoplight. As you get out to check on the damage the driver of the other vehicle approaches you, furious that you wrecked his car. They get in your face and begin yelling obscenities. They get so close that they are actually leaning into you causing you to step backward. As you tell the driver to step back and calm down they ignore you and continue to invade your space and get even angrier at you.
Should you take action? I would say that you better do something because the confrontation could become physical in an instant. If the only weapon/tool that you have is a firearm, are you justified to draw the weapon? If you draw the weapon and the other driver fears that you are going to shoot him, is he justified to take action to stop you? At such a short distance can you draw your weapon and point it at your threat before they can reach and grab for the weapon?
Would having a non-lethal form of protection (possibly in addition to your firearm) be advantageous in this circumstance? The answer is ABSOLUTELY YES!! A violent confrontation does not always equal a deadly force encounter. Telling someone to back away and stop pushing into you and then using a non-lethal device such as pepper spray has far different consequences than doing the same thing with a firearm. This also means that you are not introducing a firearm into the situation needlessly. Remember, if you are armed then every encounter involves a gun because at a minimum yours is involved.
So, it's not always a choice between a gun or a non-lethal option. Sometimes, it's about giving yourself options to deal with different situations and threat levels. However, for some people that are not comfortable carrying or firing a gun than non-lethal protection products are an alternative.
Stay Safe and Stay Prepared,
J.A. Hill
Owner, Shield Protection Products LLC.
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