Self Defense Products Blog

This is an excellent question and one many people are asking. Non lethal self defense is obviously not meant to inflict any fatal consequences, however when used excessively almost any weapon can inflict permanent or fatal harm. High Emotion equals low intelligence and this is a fact that can not be avoided. When faced with a potentially fatal situation or even a situation where we believe someone may cause us harm it is easy to over react with out first considering consequences.

The term less lethal self defense has come about from the continual use of excessive force. Many stories in the news have related how tasers and other less lethal self defense weapons have caused deaths.

It is important to note that in almost every instance of death, the less lethal self defense weapon was not used properly or with moderation. When used per the instructions and coupled with common sense a less lethal self defense weapon is actually a non lethal self defense tool.

There isn’t a circumstance that comes to mind in which a taser would need to be used on an eighty year old bed ridden man. It also seems rare that a routine traffic stop of a pregnant woman would require use of a taser. These are great examples of poor judgment and even worse execution.

If you are truly looking to protect yourself then a non-lethal self defense tool is probably perfect for you. If you are looking for vigilante justice than you probably need to find another tool and an outlet that will allow free expression without legal ramifications. Perhaps you can apply with your local police force.

Everyday as I scour the web for stories related to non lethal self defense, I find a plethora of information. There so many occurrences involving non lethal self defense that new legislation is popping up and precedents are being set everyday.

It is urgent and important that you keep up on the pepper spray laws for your state. The laws that were in place when you purchased your spray may have been updated.

The debates about non lethal self defense vary in intensity, but should you choose to carry a taser, stun gun, pepper spray or mace it is important that you understand the law and how to use your preferred method of protection.

If you are unclear on how to use your non lethal self defense product there is a possibility that you or your intended target could be injured.

Please take time to review the laws for your state and research which non lethal self defense product is for you. There is no shortage of discreet but effect self defense tools. Make sure you protect yourself and your family responsibly.

Okay we spend lots of time trying to protect ourselves and our families, and that is a good thing. We focus on keeping people out of our homes while we sleep, here is another consideration keeping your teenagers in.

Let’s face it we have all been there either as teenagers or parents of teenagers. We can’t be everywhere at once and most of us appreciate the value of a good night’s sleep.

What if there was a way to be alerted when your teen tries to sneak in or out in the wee small hours? Would it be worth $7.95 per entry point? If you answered yes it is time to put your money where your mouth is.

This compact, attractive Magnetic Door/ Window Alarm uses magnetic affinity to initiate its 110 decibel siren. The base of the alarm is bolted to door or window frame, the actuator is connected to the window or door. The alarm is activated by opening the door or window. Great for any door or window, particularly those hard to protect sliding glass doors. Requires 3 lithium button cell batteries (included).

Now you can rest easy! Whether it is your children or an actual burglar you will be alerted. 110 decibels is about the amount of noise that a semi would make driving through your living room. Most of us couldn’t sleep through that.

The alarm can be turned off with a discreet switch if you deem necessary.

Recently I wrote about the Pet Blinkie and I truly believe this is the cheapest and most effective way to protect your pet from things that speed in the night. Safety lights are not a luxury!

Tonight I had a frightening experience as I was driving to the store. I live in a fairly rural area that borders a town. It is not an understatement to say that the local government is not wasting any of our tax dollars on street lights.

I was traveling at about 45 MPH (in a 50 MPH) and as I was almost upon two cyclists I quickly swerved and then changed lanes. The cyclists were wearing black and had NO REFLECTORS!

Fortunately, I am a cautious driver and I was paying attention. As I continued down the road I looked in my rear view mirror only to discover they had reflectors on the front of their bikes and what appeared to be a miner light on top of their heads. Safety lights on the back of the cyclist or their bike would have helped immensely.

This could have ended badly. It is not enough to have reflectors in front of you as long as there are cars behind you. Drivers can be tired at night and are likely to be less attentive even though the opposite is required.

If you are a cyclist remember the basics:

Wear light or bright colored clothing

Obey the rules of the road

Use reflectors on your person and your bike

Keep a safe distance between you and the cars on the road.

Safety lights are extra bright, and offer a high intensity LED Light. There are seven functions with different flashing patterns. Safety lights includes heavy duty PVC bike mount, arm or wrist strap and belt clip. Can be worn like a pager.

It is better to be safe than be right!

Education is the key to awareness and change. Recently a jury made Taser International more aware. The story below is a well documented lawsuit that recently arrived at a verdict. We will continue to post news about appeals or post verdict developments as they are available…

“With a string of 69 straight trial victories under its belt, it’s safe to say that Taser International — makers of the controversial stun guns used by police forces across Canada, the U.S. and elsewhere — is not a company that is accustomed to the sting of defeat.

But stung they finally were last Friday as, after having swatted away 45 previous wrongful death or injury lawsuits and even convincing an Ohio judge to reverse autopsy results that found Tasers at least partially contributed to three deaths, the company was found liable in the death of 40-year-old Robert Heston Jr. by a federal jury in San Jose and ordered to pay the family more than $6-million in damages.

From the Monetrey County Herald, via Wired blog Danger Room:

An autopsy found that Heston died from a combination of methamphetamine intoxication, an enlarged heart due to long-term drug abuse, and Taser shocks.

Heston’s parents, Betty Lou and Robert Sr., and their daughter sued Taser International. They alleged the company failed to properly warn users that its product could be dangerous, and even lethal, when used repeatedly in conjunction with chest compressions and on people under the influence of drugs…

The six-person jury found that Arizona-based stun-gun manufacturer Taser International should have more effectively warned police that Taser shocks were potentially dangerous. Salinas police testified during the trial that they were not warned that the shocks could be dangerous.

Plaintiffs attorney John Burton said the verdict is precedent setting, noting that this was the first time a jury found Tasers are dangerous when used too often…

Taser executives responded to the court loss by calling it a victory, releasing a company statement titled “Jury Finds Extended Taser Device Application 15 Percent Responsible for Arrest Related Death.” But as New York Times blog The Lede noted yesterday, the company’s stock nonetheless dropped 12% in trading Monday and Tuesday, with one analyst telling Barron’s that “investors will assume heightened operating risk in the Taser model in the short term.”

The news of Taser’s court loss comes as a B.C. commission prepares to release its report on the RCMP’s use of Tasers tomorrow. Commission chairman Paul Kennedy’s report will then appear at the Braidwood inquiry into Taser use in B.C. on June 25 to explain his findings and field questions.

The B.C. inquiry, headed by retired B.C. Court of Appeal Justice Thomas Braidwood, was ordered by Attorney-General Wally Oppal after the death of Polish immigrant Robert Dziekanski at Vancouver International Airport last October.

Braidwood is heading two inquiries. The first is a study commission into the use, effectiveness and safety of conducted energy weapons — such as Tasers — in B.C. by law enforcement agencies other than the RCMP.”

Article on National Post.com 6/12/2008.

Paintballing is rapidly evolving as a sport that can be enjoyed by family and strangers alike. Paint ballers have a variety of ways to get in the game. Paint ball centers are popping up around the country and they often stage “war games”, tournaments, or competitions.

Paintballing combines hand to eye coordination with the opportunity to spend time outdoors and get some exercise. More often than not the paintballers are divided into two or more teams and then set free to “capture” or shoot the other teams. Once you are hit by another teams color you are either presumed dead or you become part of the team that captured you and you must try to get others.

The lighter side of paintballing can be challenging as well as therapeutic. The Splatamatic offers a unique .40 caliber semi-automatic paint ball marker that is great for target practice, game fun, or as a side arm. The exclusive quick release lever allows quick CO2 cartridge replacement, and it shoots over 100 paint balls with one pull of the trigger.

Mae West once remarked, that it was easy to whistle , you just put your lips together and blow. This is great advice under normal circumstances when no pressure is involved.

Imagine your car is in a parking garage and it is late at night. You begin schlepping to your car and suddenly hear footsteps behind you. You walk a bit faster and you can hear the pace of the footsteps quicken. Off to the right you see a man and a woman walking to their car. You try to whistle but it is not loud enough to draw attention. As the attacker catches up to you the couple disappear from sight.

This is a frightening scenario, but one that happens all too often. Protection involves being prepared and staying free from harm. All things being perfect you could walk down the street any time of day or night without worrying about impending harm.

At this moment crime rates are on the rise and there is not a solution on the horizon. Although we can’t wipe our crime entirely we can lower the incident rate by taking precautions and using self defense tools to protect ourselves.

The electronic pocket whistle is just such a tool. The electronic whistle will scream for attention when you can’t. This handy life saving whistle emits a loud 120db whistle for as long as you push the button. Useful in sporting events, a locator in emergencies (earthquakes, collapsed buildings), referee whistle, traffic whistle for police, military training, dog handling and as a safety alarm for crime prevention. 4 inches long.

Personal Security Advice for Travelers.

Summer is the time of year when millions of Americans take a vacation alone, with a spouse, or with the whole family. The excitement of getting away from your usual routine and doing something different is exciting. Very few people, however, plan ahead and take the proper precautions to protect their personal security at home and on the road. Here is some advice to keep in mind so that you may have safer travels.

Personal Security On The Road

If you are traveling for an extended time, notify family members and neighbors that you trust when you leave and when you are expected to return. Make sure they have your contact information (phone numbers for cell phones or hotels/lodging where you will be staying) so they can reach you in an emergency. Arrange to have the post office hold your mail for you and your newspaper delivery temporarily suspended. You may house plants or a garden that neighbors or friends will need to check on and water as needed while you are away.

Your personal security can be improved if you are well prepared for your travel schedule. Check departure times for trains and planes before you begin your travels. This way you won’t get stuck in the wrong terminals and put yourself at risk of getting lost or losing personal items. Try to choose seats that are near aisles or doors, if possible. Always know the location of emergency exits and alarms.

I know it can be difficult, but try not to sleep on public transportation. This can put you at risk of theft while you are asleep. Also, consider buying some clothing and accessories that are specially made to conceal important documents such as your passport, money, and credit cards. It is important to keep an emergency stash of money hidden on your body away from your wallet or purse, so that if you are robbed you can hand over some cash, and they will not get everything, including the passports and credit cards.

If you need to travel with valuables, keep them out of sight from the public and keep the luggage that contains them close to you. Always make sure that your can see the luggage and if someone does try to take your bag, just let it go.

Your personal security is more important that your valuables, so make sure you do not put up a fight with a thief. You do not know if they are carrying a weapon and you really don’t want to find out. The best thing to do is to research the area where you are going to be traveling and make sure that you don’t have to travel anywhere that is isolated and away from the crowds. Try to blend in as much as possible and you will be taking and extra step in protecting your personal security.

Tags: Crime Prevention, Electronic Pocket Whistle, Home safety, Home security, How to protect yourself from attack, Personal Safety, Self Defense Products, Self Defense Tips

If you live in Islip or Brookhaven in New York the answer is yes! Regulations vary by town

State law requires pool alarms for all built after Dec. 14, 2006, and enclosures with self-closing, self-latching gates.

Regulations on minimum fencing heights vary by locality. For example, the Town of North Hempstead requires 6-foot-high fencing (and pool covers when the pool is unattended), while Hempstead, Huntington, Brookhaven and Islip require fences at least 4-feet high.

Islip requires self-closing and latching house doors opening on to the pool area but no alarms, while Hempstead requires door alarms.

Brookhaven law that took effect Jan. 1 ends grandfather clauses on pools built before 2003, which must now conform to current regulations on gates and doors, latches and fencing. “If your pool was built before 2003, you are likely in violation of town code,” said Tom Burke, a town spokesman.

If you have a pool check and make sure what the laws are in your state and the codes in your town. Here is a tragedy that happened earlier this week. A Pool Alarm could have saved a life!

NEWSDAY REPORTED THE FOLLOWING! Our sympathy goes out to Dashaunte’s family and friends!

Adolescent bravado and naiveté, lack of supervision, poor swimming skills and murky water were factors in the drowning of a Brentwood boy, according to police, witnesses and family members.

Dashaunte Baskerville, 11, died Monday in a neighbor’s pool as two friends looked on, at first believing it was all a game.

Although an adult was home at the time, she was not outside watching the boys play, and Dashaunte did not have an adult’s permission to be in the pool, Suffolk police said.

Dashaunte, a sixth-grader at East Middle School, was walking to a 7-Eleven convenience store when he joined two friends at one of the boys’ homes that has a pool, his family said.

One of the boys, Marquis MacArthur, 11, said Dashaunte asked his friend for permission to swim and was told the other boy’s mother at the home with the pool was asleep and that it was OK for him to get in the pool. But police said she was not home when Dashaunte arrived.

The trio began playing in the shallow end of the pool. “Dashaunte asked if the other boys could swim in the deep end,” Marquis said. When the boys answered “No,” Marquis said, Dashaunte answered, “Oh, I can.”

He then swam into the deep end, where he struggled and called for help before slipping under the water.

Several minutes passed before the boys alerted Marquis’ sister, mother, and father, Leverne MacArthur. The elder MacArthur and another man eventually reached the edge of the 9-foot-deep pool, where MacArthur frantically pushed a long pole through murky water in search of Dashaunte.

After pulling the boy from the water, their attempts to revive him, as well as efforts by emergency responders, were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at Southside Hospital in Bay Shore.

“I think in my heart that the kids got scared so they didn’t really say anything,” MacArthur said, explaining some of the delay. “I think they panicked.”

Det. Lt. Jack Fitzpatrick of the Suffolk homicide squad said the 21-year-old sister was left in charge of the two boys and that Dashaunte arrived after her parents left for a shopping trip.

Please share this story with anyone you know that has a pool. This story may save lives!

It has been a record week in the news where non lethal self defense products are concerned. The Canadian Press posted this very encouraging story and we are glad to mention it.

It is no longer permitted to use stun guns on minors regardless of why they are in the system. This is great news since many members of law enforcement have been abusing their powering and injury inmates in some cases fatally.

From the Canadian Press-

FREDERICTON — New Brunswick’s public safety minister has done an about-face on his government’s policy concerning the use of stun guns on minors serving adult sentences in adult jails.

On Monday, John Foran said any person serving a sentence in an adult facility is to be considered an adult, but today he says guards cannot use stun guns on minors.

Foran says the province is taking a serious look at all recommendations in the ombudsman’s report into the suicide of a mentally ill young woman who spent years in detention.

Ashley Smith was zapped twice in less than a month as an 18-year-old while jailed in Saint John.

Smith, of Moncton, was transferred to various institutions and was only 19 when she killed herself at a facility in Kitchener, Ont.

Foran says anyone diagnosed as mentally ill will be dealt with in a clinical setting and not segregation.

Opposition critic Jody Carr says the government is making policy on the fly.

He says the government needs to follow the ombudsman’s report and set clear timelines to move on the recommendations. -

Let’s hope the rest of the law enforcement agencies follow suit.