case study for self defense

A case study as to why we need to be prepared comes straight from today’s local headlines. In Bond Hill a 20 year old “man”, Deshawn Phillips, was arrested yesterday on several charges including robbery, theft, failure to comply with police, reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, and failure to maintain reasonable control of a vehicle. Robbery because the car he was driving and then wrecked was stolen.

 

What makes matters even more interesting is that he had an arrest warrant for him regarding a violent mugging on July 10^th where he violently hit a woman repeatedly in the face in an attempt to get her purse. He finally wrestled the victim to the ground and took her checkbook. He never did get the purse.

 

I can’t help to think that some Mace or a stun gun would have altered this event tremendously. The robber would be the one with the injuries instead of the law abiding citizen. Sometime I think of prevention as a time saver. So there you are after being attached, assuming you are still alive. You then have to go to a police officer or station to make a report. Then you have to go to court which is a burden on you and your employer. Typically court takes about three hours on average as you have to get parking, get through security, and wait for the case to be called. It is usually never a one time event. It may take three or more appearances to help convict the robber. I did not even mention the time you would waste in the hospital emergency room and recovery time.

 

The alternative situation is that you use pepper spay, a stun gun, a TASER, or other self defense product to completely disable the robber allowing you time to get away and be safe. This situation does not even take into effect the impact that a family member such as a child would have to deal with after such attach. People have insurance on their home, care, and even life. That insurance is a hell of a lot more expensive than $10 worth of pepper spray that has a shelf life of two years.

More information can be found about these products at www.heatherplanet.com

gun safety

Gun Safety

Yes I have a gun and have a license to carry a concealed weapon. I have also been handling guns for twenty two years at this point. I was in the army for 13 years. I would strongly suggest that you seek training if you have not been in the armed services. Great training is available through the NRA. You can find out more at http://www.nrainstructors.org/CourseCatalog.aspx. You can also get great training through your state by taking the concealed carry course if your state allows you to carry. Even if you don’t plan to carry it and will have it in your house, the course is very informative for safety.

I personally have a Colt 45 1911. If I have to use it, I want to make sure I have stopping power. This is a clip fed semi automatic pistol (clip fed pistols are the bests for concealing). In order to fire the weapon, you need to put one or more rounds in the clip, insert he clip, chamber the first round, and pull the trigger. I prefer to have rounds in the clip, but I never chamber the first round. I am fast enough to chamber it as I pull it from my holster. I also leave the safety on at all times.

Other important tips include never pointing any fire arm at anyone if you think is unloaded or not. Always point to the ground. Never fire warning shots. They can hit people that you cannot even see at that time. If you do pull your weapon, be ready to use it. Always follow the rules of remaining steady, have a firm grip (push & pull with your hands), hold your breath on the exhale, aim using a good site picture, and have a smooth trigger squeeze.

Do not do what you see in the movies or on television where the “gangster” has the pistol pointed sideways. He will be the idiot on the floor while the one pointing it upright using a good site picture will be standing.

If you have children that live in the house, make sure you unload the weapon that is not on your person and get a safety lock such that it will prevent the gun from operation. Many states have programs where they provide these at a discount or for free.

If you are at a firing range and a round does not go off when fired or gets jammed, place the weapon down facing down range and get assistance.  There are times were a round will “cook off” and fire a few moments after you put the weapon down.

Many prefer to use less violent force for protection. You can find out more at www.heatherplanet.com

10 tips for avoiding crime

TEN TIPS FOR AVOIDING CRIME

 

1. Be Alert!

Keep your head up.

Be aware of your surroundings.

 

2. Vary Your Routines

Predictability makes you a more likely target.

 

3. Lock It!

Home, car, office – locks are your first line of defense.

 

4. Make Your Home A Tough Target

Use floodlights, motion sensors, a security system, deadbolts, etc.

 

5. Foil Car-jackers

Keep windows/doors locked, check mirrors and blind spot when stopped.

Stay one to one and a half lengths away from the car ahead of you.

Sound your horn and flash your lights if you think you’re being approached by a car-jacker.

 

6. Avoid Car Theft

Lock it!

Use an anti-theft device.

Turn the wheels when you park.

Never leave a spare key inside the car.

Park in a well-lighted place.

Put packages in the trunk.

 

7. Be Creative

Think of unusual ways to protect yourself and your valuables.

 

8. Be Informed

Learn the crime trends in your area and work to protect yourself against them.

 

9. Get Involved

Have your joined or organized a Neighborhood Watch?

 

10. Don’t Give Up!

Crime can be reduced – with action, not apathy!

For more information on self defense products visit www.heatherplanet.com

street sense

STREET SENSE

 

Wherever you are on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus or cab, stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.

Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uncomfortable, avoid the person or leave.

Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, and restaurants, or stores that are open late.

 

On Foot-Day or Night

 

• Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
• Don’t flash money or other tempting targets like jewelry or clothing.
• Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket, not a back pocket. Carry only what is necessary and try not to keep currency and credit cards all in one place.
• Don’t wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.
• Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.
• Try to use automated teller machines in the daytime. Have your card in hand and don’t approach the machine if you’re uneasy about people nearby. Better yet, only use the ATM machines inside of grocery store, malls, or gas stations.
• If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lighted house. If someone harasses you, don’t be embarrassed. Loudly say “Leave me alone! Someone call the police! Get away!”

 

Vehicle Safety

 

• Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there’s enough gas to get where you’re going and back.
• Always roll up the windows and lock car doors, even if you’re coming right back. Check inside and out before getting in.
• Avoid parking in isolated areas. Be especially alert in lots and underground parking garages.
• If you think someone is following you, don’t head home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, gas station, or other open business to get help
• If Someone Tries to Rob You
• Don’t resist. Give up your property. Don’t risk your life.
• Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from being victims.
• Take a Stand!
• Make your neighborhood and working place safer by reporting broken street lights, cleaning up parks and vacant lots, and lobbying local government for better lighting in public places.
• Initiate a block watch program in your neighborhood by contacting your local crime prevention unit.

Find out more at www.heatherplanet.com

safe shopping tips

TIPS FOR SAFE SHOPPING

 

• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible.  If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

 

• Dress casually and comfortably.

 

• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

 

• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.

 

• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.

 

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

 

• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.

 

• Keep cash in your front pocket.

 

• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.

 

• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

 

• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas.

 

• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.

 

• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason.  At this time of year, “con-artists” may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

self defense tips

SELF DEFENSE TIPS

Do as much as you can to avoid a confrontation – “anticipation and avoidance” are the key words. If you get caught up in a situation, try to talk to an aggressor without provoking them. Practice relaxation, as appearing fearful or stressed can actually provoke an attack. Remember that body language is important in aggressive situations, so maintain a comfortable distance between you and the aggressor.

 

Use a gas or electronic attack alarm, as these give out a short piercing sound and will temporarily disorientate an attacker, giving you enough time to escape. Carry it somewhere where you can get to it quickly – don’t leave it buried at the bottom of your bag. If you don’t have an alarm, just make a noise yourself by screaming as loud as you can, or shouting “call the police” – if you’re loud enough this can be just as effective as a personal alarm. If you have an alarm, use it and shout as well.

 

Steady yourself if danger threatens. Panic can disable you, so again it’s useful to learn how to keep control in a difficult situation. And if you must fight back, adopt what police term the “bash and dash” approach. Primary targets are the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, throat, groin, knees or shins; choose whichever is easiest to get to.

 

If held from behind don’t struggle forward, you’ll only exhaust yourself. Instead throw yourself backwards to surprise your attacker or stomp on the lower leg or foot.

 

You have the right to defend yourself with reasonable force and this includes using items you have with you such as an umbrella, bag, briefcase or keys. However, don’t carry or use anything that the law would regard as an offensive weapon. Once you’ve achieved your primary aim of stunning or surprising your attacker, get away as fast as you can. If you manage to overcome them don’t attack again, you could be putting yourself in more danger or you could end up being charged with assault.

 

These are just the very basics of self-defense, but to learn more about it and get some exercise at the same time, find a local self-defense class and encourage your family along to join you. Just remember “anticipation and avoidance” are the best forms of defense.

preventing rape

Preventing Rape

 

If you are in immediate danger of being raped, here are some things that you can do.

 

Make a loud noise – Carry a whistle or scream “police” to attract attention

 

Run – Only run if there is somewhere safe to run to. If there is no where to go you may aggravate the assailant further by running

 

Stall – Speak calmly and rationally. Try not to plead, cry or show that you’re scared, this may be the reaction that he’s going for.

 

Urinate or vomit – Do anything you can to repulse the assailant. Tell him that you have a STD or AIDS.

 

Fight – Women who resist attacks and act quickly are less likely to be raped, than those who are passive. The optimum time to react is in the first 20 seconds when the body releases chemicals in the blood that help to put up a fight. Be cautious if he has a weapon.

 

Keep alert – Even though it will be difficult, try to pay attention to as many details as possible, so that you can identify your assailant.

 

Get help – Call 9-1-1 as soon as possible. Police are becoming more willing to help victims of rape. You are not obligated to press charges or go to court.

 

Collect evidence - Do not bathe, shower, or douche. If you change clothes, put the clothes you were raped in into a bag and seal it.

 

Tell someone – Call the police, rape crisis counselor, telephone operator, friend. It is very important that someone knows and that it is not kept a secret.

public transportation safety

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SAFETY

 

Public transport is normally very safe and most taxi companies are reputable licensed firms whose drivers have been vetted, so here is some advice that should help you feel more confident when traveling by bus, train, tube or taxi.

 

 

On the Bus

 

• Use a bus stop you know is usually busy and is well lit
• Know the departure and arrival times and try and let someone at the other end know which bus you plan to catch. They could always meet you at your stop
• Sit close to the driver. If someone starts up a conversation, be pleasant and confident, but don’t give away personal information like where you live or work

 

 

By Train

 

• Wait on a well-lit section of the platform, close to the exit or where there are other people around. Many stations now have CCTV cameras and staff that are trained to deal with emergencies
• When you get on the train try to sit in a busy compartment and keep any bags and personal possessions you have next to you
• If you feel uncomfortable switch seats or even consider getting off the train and catching the next one. Only do this if the station where you are getting off is manned and busy
• Know where the emergency button or cord is situated or any help points at the station

 

 

Taking a Taxi

 

• Carry the phone number of a taxi or mini cab firm you know, and whenever you book a taxi ask them for the driver’s name and the type of car they will be driving
• Try and book the taxi you need to bring you home before you go out. Give your name and when the driver arrives make sure they know the name it was booked under. If you have to book your taxi in a public place, do it quietly where people are unlikely to overhear your name and address
• If you can, share a taxi with a friend and have your money ready and keys handy at the end of your journey so that you can enter your home quickly
• If ever you feel uneasy in a taxi ask the driver to stop in a busy place that you know well, and get out

protecting your child

PROTECTING YOUR CHILD

 

 

It has been said that children are our most valuable resource. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary that we take positive measures to insure their safety and prevent them from becoming victims of crime.

 

Parents…

 

• Never leave children alone; not at home, in a vehicle, at play, or anywhere.

 

• Define what a STRANGER is. Let your kids know that just because they see someone everyday (e.g. mailman, paperboy, neighbor, etc.) it does not mean these people are not strangers.

 

• Teach your children their full name, your name, full address, and phone number, including area codes. Teach them how to use a phone.

 

• Teach your children the “What if…?” Game, making up different dangerous situations that they might encounter and helping them play out what they would do in that situation.

 

• Take the time to talk to your children and be alert to any noticeable changes in their behavior or attitude toward an adult or teenager; it may be a sign of sexual abuse.

 

• Set up procedures with your child’s school or day care center as to whom the child will be released to other than yourself, and what notification procedure they are to follow if the child does not show up on time.

 

• Teach your children that thier body is private and no one has the right to touch them in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable. If anyone touches them in a wrong way they should: SAY NO, GET AWAY, and TELL SOMEONE they trust.

preventing sexual assault

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO TO PREVENT SEXUAL ASSAULT?

 

 

• Always be aware of your surroundings.

 

• Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible.

 

• Walk confidently, directly, at a steady pace. A rapist looks for someone who appears vulnerable.

 

• Walk on the side of the street facing traffic.

 

• Walk close to the curb. Avoid doorways, bushes and alleys where rapists can hide.

 

• If you think you are being followed, walk quickly to areas where there are people and lights. If a car appears to be following you, turn and walk in the opposite direction or walk on the other side of the street.

 

• Be careful when people stop you for directions or money. Always reply from a distance and never get too close to the car.

 

• If you are in trouble or feel you are in danger, don’t be afraid to attract help any way you can. Scream, yell or run away to safety.

 

• Always lock your car. Keep your car locked when you are away from it to keep someone from hiding and waiting inside.

 

• When you are inside the car, lock the doors for safety.

 

• Look inside and around your car before you get in.

 

• Be aware of other people in parking areas, especially those close to your vehicle.

 

• If you think you are being followed, drive to a public place or a police station to get help.

 

• If your car breaks down, open the hood or attach a white cloth to the antenna. If someone stops to help, stay inside your locked vehicle and ask them to call the police.

 

• If you choose to carry any type of weapon for self-protection, give careful consideration to your ability and willingness to use it. Remember there is always the chance that it could be taken away and used