Self-defense can be self-taught or learned through classes and workshops. Unfortunately, we don’t take self-defenses classes until something happens to us. As the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements are on the rise, more and more women are coming forth about being sexually assaulted, abused, and more.
Unfortunately, we avoid self-defense classes until something has happened. If we are fortunate enough, we may have close family or friends to teach us the how-to’s in defending our wellbeing.
Disclaimer: I am not here to convince or tell you what to carry or not carry. I am simply informing my readers on ways to protect yourself against harm. Please make sure you know the laws of your state to avoid any unnecessary charges or arrests.
Anyway, while browsing the World Wide Web, I came across Women On Guard. This website offers a large selection of self-defense tools. Pepper sprays, stun guns, surveillance and alarms. A lot of the stun guns are disguised as typical everyday use items; lipstick, flashlights, even a “smartphone”. There is a section full of hidden cameras, security light cameras, book safes and window alarms to safeguard your home.
Another cool thing about this website is their package deals. If you’re in college, Women On Guard offers a college dorm safety package. The package includes a stun gun, a door brace (which you place under the door knob to prevent intruders), and also a window glass breakage alarm (an alarm that goes off once it feels the vibration of the window being broken into).
Some more relevant information and for those who didn’t know (because I sure didn’t): pepper spray and Mace are two completely different chemical agents. According to Stun & Run Self Defense, Mace will simply irritate one’s eyes, similar to tear gas, and takes up to 30 seconds to effect your target. Whereas, pepper spray effects immediately and has a much more severe effect with temporary blindness for up to 15 minutes, causing breathing restriction, intense burning sensations, and even nausea.
Pepper spray creates a lot more time to run away from your predator. Mace is becoming known as a brand, just like Taser is a brand. However, Mace does not pack the punch like your average pepper spray.
Living somewhere with a high crime rate is nerve wrecking. However, the most important thing is protecting yourself to remain safe. If that means having necessary tools to do so, then so be it.
Sadly, men do not realize how uncomfortable they may make a woman feel. I’m unable to offer advice to men when it comes to this. I understand it may be painstakingly hard to see if a woman is unable to relax around you despite all or whatever you do. Women deal with catcalling and harassment on a daily, maybe even hourly basis. No matter how polite or passive a woman is, there is some guy out there unable to handle rejection.
We have all experienced unwanted attention or unwanted behavior. Whether it is pepper spray or a Taser, give yourself assurance you are keeping out of harm’s way.
As more women come forward sharing their stories of assault and abuse, I hope their courage spreads wide to those who may be afraid to get help.
If you are familiar with carrying self-defense tools or you know some methods, please share in a comment below.
