Pepper Spray Effectiveness: Capsaicinoids and HPLC Testing Make the Difference

The pungency of Hot Peppers vary depending on sunlight, soil nutrients, and precipitation. HPLC Testing and the percentage of Major Capsaicinoids are imperative for a consistent and effective heat level in every single pepper spray canister.

There are a lot of myths and inaccurate information about the effectiveness of OC Pepper Sprays. I will be the first to admit that a couple of years ago I bought into the marketing claims from a lower end pepper spray manufacturer. Various manufacturers try to market their products as hotter and better than other brands. Fortunately, there are a few things you can look for to determine the true pungency of a pepper spray product.

JUST THE FACTS

Capsaicinoids equals strength!

The Environmental Protection Agency, Health Canada, American Spice and Trade Association, and American Association of Analytical Chemists all agree that the percentage of Major Capsaicinoids determines the pungency of OC Pepper Spray products. This is two government agencies and two scientific agencies that developed scientific methods to quantify the heat level of pepper sprays. The percentage of Major Capsaicinoids is the only accurate indicator of the pepper sprays pungency. Do not let anyone tell you differently and if they do tell you differently they are not telling you factual information.

For Example:

A 2 % OC Spray of 5.3 Million SHU contains approximately 0.7% Major Capsaicinoids.

Sabre Red contain 10% OC Spray of 2 Million SHU and contain 1.33% Major Capsaicinoids.

Sabre Red are twice as pungent as the first product. The percentage of Major Capsaicinoid concentration is the only measurement of pungency the EPA allows on animal attack deterrent sprays such as Bear or Dog repellents.

Scoville Heat Unit Rating

The Scoville Heat Unit Rating or SHU Rating is the strength of the raw OC resin before it is mixed with the carriers and propellants. It IS NOT AN ACCURATE INDICATOR OF PEPPER SPRAY PUNGENCY! The carriers make up approximately 90%-98% of the entire formulation. The SHU rating will be significantly diluted by the carriers and propellants.

For Example, a 2% OC Spray of 5.3 MILLION SHU would contain a true SHU rating of 106,000 SHU.

Sabre Red is 10% Oleoresin Capsicum of 2 MILLION SHU and contains a true SHU rating of 200,000 SHU. Therefore, Sabre Red is twice as pungent as the first product.

The Importance of HPLC Testing

A 2001 report from the University of Utah confirms that pepper sprays fail 30% of the time due to inconsistent heat levels. This Capsaicinoid inconsistency can be solved by conducting High Performance Liquid Chromatography Testing of every single lot of OC solution produced. Fortunately, one OC manufacturer guarantees the heat level of their aerosol pepper sprays. Security Equipment Corporation manufactures the SABRE and SABRE RED line of aerosol projectors. SEC is the largest pepper spray manufacturer and the only manufacturer with their own IN HOUSE HPLC LABORATORY. SEC tests the incoming raw OC before it is used and the after product that is produced to ensure a consistent heat level in every single canister. SEC also conducts frequent independent HPLC lab testing. SEC is an ISO 9001:2008 certified manufacturer. With SABRE, you will never have a failure due to inconsistent heat levels.

The purpose of this article is to help you better understand what you need to look for when purchasing and OC aerosol pepper spray. REMEMBER: CAPSAICINOIDS EQUALS STRENGTH!

Stay Safe

Brent

SABRE SELF DEFENSE SPRAYS: MAXIMIZE SPRAY CONSISTENCY AND STOPPING POWER

The SABRE HC-14 Hard Case Unit is the most popular and practical option. This compact yet powerful model will fire 25 blasts with an effective range of 10 feet. Sabre Key Chain units fire 5 X longer than the competition. Sabre's new Hard Case design for 2011 features an enhanced safety system and is 25% smaller than the previous hard case unit.

The SABRE P-22 pocket clip unit is ideal for the non key chain user. It provides 35 blasts with an effective range of 10 feet.

The SABRE HM-80 Home Unit features a glow in the dark locking safety cap and mounting bracket for strategic placement throughout the home.

The SABRE M120L Police Magnum Model is ideal for individuals requiring a large amount of SABRE solution. This model is popular in our area with bars and security officers. This model is also excellent for home or auto defense.

Violent crime can happen to anyone, anyplace and at anytime. One of the best things you can do to protect yourself from violent crime is to be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to who and what is going on around you. You need to be especially alert after dark or when walking alone.

You must also learn to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Just because you have a firearm, Taser or Pepper spray, doesn't mean you can put yourself in dangerous situations. Personal defense tools are no substitute for common sense and good judgment.

I also recommend gun owners and civilians carry proven less than lethal options with them at all times. People who believe a gun replaces less lethal options (Pepper Sprays, Tasers, Kubotans) are as wrong as the people who believe less lethal options replace firearms. I am a huge advocate of carrying a less lethal option with you. Less Lethal options may keep a situation from escalating to the need for deadly force. Less Lethal options also provide an option for situations that do not justify or require the use of lethal force. If a $12 SABRE Self Defense Spray keeps you from having any injuries and having a $200,000 defensive shooting it’s well worth it.

I recommend SABRE SELF DEFENSE SPRAYS from Security Equipment Corporation out of Fenton MO. SEC is a family owned and operated business that has been producing superior self defense sprays since 1975. I have spoken with the owners of SEC several times and SEC is a professionally operated business with the most impressive quality controls in the industry. The people at SEC care deeply about protecting consumers and public safety personnel. Many of our nation’s largest and most prestigious agencies use SABRE. This includes the NYPD, LA County Sheriff, Dallas PD, Houston PD, Miami PD, Phoenix PD, Chicago PD, and the Customs and Border Protection just to name a few. SEC is also the only defense spray company with their own personal safety academy that teaches consumers how to protect themselves from violent crime and how to use SABRE.

I recommend the SABRE Advanced 3 in 1 formulation. SABRE contains Red Pepper, “Super” CS “Military” Tear Gas & an invisible ultraviolet (UV) dye to aid in suspect identification. The Advanced 3-In-1 is our most popular formulation sold in the United States. Combining the inflammatory effects of red pepper with the irritating results of CS, SABRE provides Maximum Stopping Power superior to any single ingredient defense spray

Every SABRE canister produced undergoes an impressive quality control test. Every canister is hand assembled, hand inspected, hot water bath tested for leakage, and hand test fired before being packaged for shipment. When you buy a SABRE spray you know it works!

Why Buy Sabre?

• 35 year track record - Making Grown

Men Cry Since 1975!

• ISO 9001:2008 Certification

• High Performance

Liquid Chromatography

Guarantee

• "The Most Potent Defense

Spray" - P.G.R.A.

• "The Best Tactical Spray" -

2003 AZ OC Staff Study

• Environmental Protection Agency

Establishment

• Health Canada Establishment

• Ultraviolet marking dye aids in suspect

identification

• SABRE products are test fired &

Checked for leakage before leaving the

factory

• SABRE Products are Used by the

NYPD & Thousands of Police

Departments Worldwide

SABRE Key Chain units fire 5 X longer than the competition. This is due to SABRE'S proprietary filling process and pharmaceutical grade Dymel 134A/P propellant. Every SABRE canister has a 4 year shelf life and each canister states an expiration date. Every unit is hand assembled, test fired and checked for leakage before shipping.

SABRE Self Defense Sprays can be purchased from Midway USA, Bass Pro Shops, Academy Sports and Outdoors, Sportsman's Warehouse, Big 5 Sporting Goods, and thousands of online retailers. You may also purchase them factory direct with free shipping on all orders over $50

http://www.sabrered.com/servlet/StoreFront

Security Equipment Corporation also supports the following organizations:

National Breast Cancer Foundation

National Rifle Association

Rape Abuse and Incest National Network

It is my hope that someone reading this blog may take something away with them to better their personal safety. By having a plan in place, projecting the right attitude and being AWARE civilians stand the best chance of protecting themselves.

STAY SAFE! BE AWARE! BE EMPOWERED

DR GARY K ROBERTS BEST CHOICES FOR SELF DEFENSE AMMO

Vital information if you plan to carry a firearm for personal defense. I live by the rule that if it is not on this list I don't carry it. My favorite rounds are Speer Gold Dot, Winchester Ranger T, and Federal HST.

http://ammo.ar15.com/project/Self_Defense_Ammo_FAQ/index.htm

Safety While Shopping

Robberies are up in the metro area. It's a good time to review your personal safety strategy. This strategy should consist of what if, where you would go and what you would do should a dangerous situation occur.

One of the best things you can do to protect yourself is to ALWAYS BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS AND THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU! Criminals are looking for someone who looks vulnerable and who is not aware of their surroundings. THE TOUGH TARGET DOESN'T GET PICKED!

No matter how secure you believe your vehicle is, don't leave packages unattended or in your vehicle.

Carry yourself with confidence when out in public. Walk purposefully with your head up. Look others in the eye when you pass them. One of the worst things you can do is look down.

LEAVE YOUR CELL PHONE AND IPOD IN YOUR POCKET OR PURSE! Walking through the mall parking lot is not the time to text someone. Wait until you are in your locked vehicle or inside of the shopping center.

Carry your SABRE Self Defense Spray in your hand and have it ready for use when entering parking lots or any potentially dangerous situation. If someone moves into your personal space shout STOP! GET BACK! If that person continues forward advanced movement and you have reason to fear for your safety deploy your Sabre Spray.

If you are getting ready to leave a shopping mall and you don't feel right ask a security officer or police officer to escort you to your car. Its also a good idea to shop with a friend during the daytime.

Trust your instincts! If something doesn't feel right it probably isn't right. Research shows a large percentage of people had a feeling something was wrong just before being attacked.

IF someone wants your wallet or purse GIVE IT TO THEM! Don't turn a property crime into a violent crime. One suggestion is to throw the wallet or purse one way while you flee the other way.

Pay attention to subjects who may be loitering around store entrances and parking areas, If you don't feel safe drive off.

YOUR SAFETY FIRST THEIR FEELINGS SECOND! Don't be afraid to offend someone. If you are getting ready to get in an elevator and someone makes you feel uneasy don't get on.

Lets say you have two people walking side by side. One person is talking on their cell phone or texting. They have their head down and seem distracted. The second person is walking purposefully with confidence and with Pepper Spray in hand ready to go. Which one is the criminal element more likely to pick?

By following some simple guidelines and having a plan in place of what if, where you would go and what you would do can significantly reduce the chances of being a victim of violent crime. Criminals are looking for an easy target and someone who is not aware of their surroundings. Remember, the tough target does not get picked.

Stay Safe and Merry Christmas!

Brent

Why Right to Carry Works

For revolver users the S&W 640 and 642 feature an internal hammer to prevent snagging when drawing from a purse or pocket. Revolvers are one of the most popular and dependable firearms for concealed carry.

The M&P is an excellent handgun for personal defense and home defense. The M&P is available in several popular calibers. I prefer the full size 9MM with no external safeties.

Paxton Quigley has a no nonsense approach when it comes to lawful gun ownership. The former pacifist helped John Glenn found the National Committee for Handgun Control. A former fierce handgun control advocate, Paxton changed her views on gun ownership after a close friend was followed home, attacked and viciously raped by an intruder. After the event, Paxton asked her friend if she had a gun would it have made a difference and would she have used a firearm to prevent the horrific assault. Her friend confided in Paxton and said YES. Yes she would have used a Handgun if she had one. She admitted that she in fact had several opportunities to defend herself that evening if only shed had a weapon. However she had nothing, no Pepper Spray, no Taser device and no firearm. After witnessing her friend survive this traumatic event, Paxton made up her mind and decided she would never let this happen to her. She enrolled in some of the most prestigious handgun training courses in the United States and enrolled in several self defense classes. However for Paxton that wasn't enough. She also wanted to make an impact in the lives of women who wanted to empower themselves. Paxton began teaching personal defense and firearms classes in the 90's. Paxton became a spokesperson for Smith and Wesson and covered all aspects of personal protection in her courses. From home security, physical security, lethal and non lethal, everything you need to know about developing a personal defense plan is covered in her seminars. Paxton has written four books including her bestselling title "Armed and Female". There is absolutely no question about it, Paxton Quigley has made a difference in the lives of millions of women.

Dr. Suzanna Graita Hupp was having lunch with her parents on Wednesday October 16th 1991 at the Luby's Cafeteria in Killeen Texas. She had left her gun in her vehicle that day to comply with Texas law which at the time forbid the carrying of a concealed handgun. Suzanna admitted that she had carried an airweight .38 revolver in her purse but was worried about loosing her license to practice as a Chiropractor. October 16th was bosses day and the cafeteria was packed with people who had taken their bosses out for lunch. Suddenly a Ford Ranger pickup truck came crashing through the front window of the cafeteria. At first people thought it was just an accident. However, it was no accident and nobody could have predicted what would take place that day. An emotionally disturbed man named George Hennard got out of his truck and began methodically shooting people. In an attempt to protect themselves from the shooter, Suzanna and her parents quickly hid behind a turned over table Hennard was about 12 feet away from Hupp when she said to her self "I've got him!" She instinctively reached for her purse where she had kept her revolver. She had a perfect place to prop her arm and the guy was only about 12 feet away. I know what some of you are thinking. "She could have gotten herself hurt or hit an innocent bystander." That is a typical response to some people who are what I call sheep and have no personal defense strategy in place. You see, Suzanna had hit much smaller targets at much greater distances. Suzanna then realized that she had made what she calls the stupidest decision of her life. Her gun was sitting several hundred feet away in her vehicle. Suzanna's dad said he couldn't take it any more and rushed at the gunman in an attempt to stop him but the suspect shot her father before he even had a chance. Sometime during the ordeal a patron had broken out a glass window and people began to flee outside into the parking lot. Suzanna grabbed her mother by the shirt and told her they had to get out of the cafeteria. Suzanna says her feet grew wings and she was out the window. It wasn't until she made it outside that she noticed her mother was not behind her. She later learned from a police officer that Hennard had executed her mother as she was cradling her husband. Her parents had just celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary and her mother wasn't going anywhere without her husband. Suzanna says that she wasn't mad at the man that committed the violent act. He was obviously mentally disturbed and needed help. Suzanna says she is mad at her legislators for legislating her out of the right to protect herself and her family. The guns did not just walk themselves in the cafeteria and start firing.

Suzanna went on to fight vigorously for right to carry laws across the United States. In fact her testimony has convinced many states to pass shall issue right to carry legislation. In the 1990's Right to Carry began to spread like wildfire from coast to coast. Today 37 states have shall issue right to carry, 4 have unrestricted carry and 8 states have discretionary issue. Only the state of Illinois forbids the carrying of concealed firearms. To give you an idea of how far we have come in 1986 only 8 states had shall issue right to carry. What may surprise you is there is no more greater crime in states with right to carry laws than states that do not allow the carrying of concealed weapons. When Washington DC passed it's recently defeated Handgun Ban homicide rates in DC skyrocketed. The same has happened in states that have strict gun control restrictions. In fact professor John R Lott Jr., aurthor of "More Guns Less Crime, Understanding Crime Control and Gun Control Laws" conducted the most comprehensive study on firearms laws and crime rates. John found that VIOLENT CRIMES WERE 81% HIGHER IN STATES WITHOUT SHALL ISSUE RIGHT TO CARRY. STATES THAT BAN CONCEALED CARRY HAVE MURDER RATES 127 PERCENT HIGHER THAN STATES WITH THE MOST LIBERAL CONCEALED CARRY LAWS.

The fact of the mater is, criminals don't give a damn about weapon restrictions and felons carry their firearms regardless of what jurisdictional law says. How many times have we heard the Cease Fire adds on the radio that warn if a felon is caught with a gun they are facing 10 years in prison. Did that keep felons from carrying firearms and ammunition? Didn't think so! It is a constitutional injustice that a criminal in Chicago will walk down the street with their illegally carried gun while the law abiding Chicagoan is left defenseless. Concealed carry laws work because it gives the good people the legal right to carry a firearm to protect themselves from violent criminals who already carry firearms. Concealed carry keeps criminals guessing! In fact Paxton Quigley went to the San Quinton Correctional Facility in California and interviewed violent felons who were serving time for some of the most horrific acts of violence. The felons confessed that they feared law abiding citizens armed with firearms more than they feared the police. The truth is the Firearm is the only tool that places an older, disabled, smaller person on the same level as a large, goal oriented violent attacker. As a law abiding tax paying citizen you have the absolute right to protect yourself with a firearm. The United States Supreme Court ruled in DC V Heller that the Second Amendment protects an individuals right to possess a firearm in Federal enclaves. In McDonald V Chicago the Supreme Court ruled that an individuals right to keep and bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment and applies to the states. The law abiding citizens who takes the time to go through a firearm safety course, concealed carry course that costs $60, pay the OSBI $100 for background check, $25 to the Sheriff for fingerprinting, and wait 90 days for a permit is not the person to be concerned with. Law abiding citizens with concealed carry licenses have stopped numerous violent crimes and have even helped police officers who were being violently assaulted. In many of the incidents in which CCW permit holders have drawn their firearms for defensive purposes a shot isn't even fired. This is proof that the proper presentation of a firearm is a tremendous visual crime deterrent.

Who should not own a firearm?

• Anyone who for religious or personal reasons would not be able to take another life to preserve their own.
• Anyone who suffers from depression or lives with someone who has a history of depression or has contemplated suicide.
• Anyone who has a short fuse and is quick to get angry.
• Anyone who makes the statement "I just want a gun so I can scare away an attacker". The attacker will be able to tell if you are willing to shoot. You must have decided before hand that you are able to use deadly force and which situations justify the use of deadly force.
• Anyone who lives with a felon or adjudicated juvenile delinquent.
• Anyone who refuses to get proper training and learn proper gun safety.
• Anyone addicted to alcohol, narcotics, including illegal and or prescription drugs.

YOU LOAD IT YOUR RESPONSIBLE FOR IT! Understand the universal gun safety rules:

1. All guns are loaded
2. Never point a gun at anything you don't intend to destroy
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you have identified a threat and are ready to fire.
4. Know who and what is beyond your target.
5. Store your firearms responsibly.

I truly hope this article will give you a positive perspective on firearms for self defense. The Firearm is a tremendously effective self defense tool but you must also understand its limitations. A person who goes to the range and shoots 50 round of practice ammo and thinks they are ready for a gun fight is kidding themselves. I highly recommend you enroll in defensive handgun training courses at H&H Gun Range. Will Andrews is an awesome instructor and he teaches the Pistol Skills series. As Will once said to me "If you look like food you will get eaten." Folks this is all about making yourself a tough target. The tough target does not get picked! It starts with situation awareness and developing a safety strategy. A firearm, Taser, self defense spray and Kubtoan are emergency tools to help you and give you the best chance at escaping a violent situation. Just as I wear a seat belt in case of an accident, have a weather radio in case of a Tornado, and fire extinguisher in case of a fire; I also have several proven personal defense tools that can help me fight off an attack. I encourage you to go to YouTube and click on the Armed Citizen channel to see countless stories where civilians have used firearms to stop violent crime. Firearms are used 2 million times a year for personal protection. It is also estimated that 2,191 Americans use guns in self defense every day. The gun is not the complete plan for protecting yourself but its a very important part of it!

BE AWARE! BE EMPOWERED! FIGHT BACK! STAY SAFE!

Child and Campus Safety Tips

A personal alarm can be an excellent safety tool for small children. Write your child's name, your name and contact information on the back of the alarm. If your child is ever in trouble they can drop the alarm or have emergency contact information readily available. This may also provide a lead for police if your child is ever abducted.

Children need to be taught common ruses that strangers use to lure children.

Know where all of the emergency blue lights are on your college campus. Don't hesitate to call for help if you are being followed or feel threatened.

Back to school time is already upon us. It's been a very long and hot summer and with students heading back to classes there may be times when children and young adults are on their own. Younger children will be waiting at the bus stop, walking home from school, or even staying at home alone. College students will also be heading back to universities and for many this will be the first year being away from home. All of these conditions may cause parents or guardians to worry and have a higher level of stress. However, there are some things students can do to keep themselves safe from crime.

Protecting Our Children

When children get to be the age when they are allowed to commute on their own to and from school there is a new found sense of freedom children experience. With this freedom there may also be some risks and it's important that we sit down and talk to our children about stranger danger and personal safety without scaring them. There is a right way to go about it and a wrong way. Children are often fast learners and they see this talk as a way to help mom and dad as well as to assure their parent's that they are capable of taking care of themselves. Sit down with your children and go over the following personal safety tips.

Teach Your Children to be Aware

Being aware of one's surroundings is just as important for children as it is adults. Children need to be taught to be aware and how to respond if someone they don't know approaches them. Children should be reminded to stay in a public place and to avoid shortcuts and secluded less traveled paths. Stick to public streets with lots of people and discuss SAFE PLACES your child may go if they need help when out on their own. These places can include department stores, fast food places, populated gas stations, banks, fire stations and post offices. Pretty much any populated business that's open to the public can be a good place for a child to go if they need help.

• A cell phone is also a great investment for children. There are special cell phones on the market that only call a few pre programmed numbers including emergency services. Make sure your child keeps this phone on their person at all times. Leaving a cell phone in a backpack or jacket is not helpful because the child may become detached from these items.

• Teach your children how to dial 911 for help. How to dial 911 is a skill children can be taught at a very young age. In fact, children as young as 2 have dialed 911 for help and saved a life. Your children must also know how to reach you and where you work.

• Your children should also be taught how to use your alarm system and how to lock your doors. You must emphasize that these safety devices must be used at all times and they are NEVER TO OPEN THE DOOR TO A STRANGER! EVER!

• When your children reach a mature age and you feel comfortable doing so, you may wish to provide them with a SABRE Self Defense Spray. Make sure you reiterate that the SABRE causes tremendous pain and is not a toy.

• Teach your children that they are never to go into any person's home that you don't know. Children must also be taught to never allow anyone to touch them in areas that are covered by a bathing suit. You need to also advise your children that it's ok to tell someone no when they do something that makes them feel uncomfortable.

• You must also tell your children that they can talk to you about anything that is bothering them and reiterate that you are always open to any discussions with them.

• ANY AND ALL FIREARMS MUST BE SECURED IN YOUR HOME! NO EXCEPTIONS! There are special bio metric gun safes such as The Gun Vault that can secure your gun and only allow you access to your firearms. NEVER LEAVE A LOADED GUN UNATTENDED! NEVER! It is your responsibility to keep firearms and dangerous items out of the reach and secured from children and irresponsible adults.

Children must be taught that they must never get into a vehicle with anyone. ABSOLUTELY UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES MAY YOUR CHILD GET INTO THE CAR OF SOMEONE EXCEPT YOU OR AUTHORIZED CLOSE FAMILY MEMBERS. Children must always be taught about the ploys that predators often use to try and lure children. Child predators will often use the following ploys:

• A request to find a lost puppy or kitten.
• The use of candy, toys and other gifts.
• Offering a ride home, to a store or to a fun place such as a park.
• Offering to take the child to a movie or game store.
• They may offer a child to play with an animal such as a kitten or puppy that is out of view such as in the backseat of a car.
• Stating that the child's mother or father has sent them to pick up the child.
• Stating that the child's mother or family members have been involved in an accident and they are there to take them to the hospital to see their parents.
• Stating that the stranger is lost and requesting the child's help to show them how to get to their destination.

Teach your children that if a stranger tries to use any of the ruses listed above to run in the opposite direction and scream fire or loudly to attract attention. Children must also be taught that strangers will often whisper to get the child to come closer to the vehicle.

• Encourage your children to play in groups and to stick together when walking alone.

• Never leave your children unattended when in public. Always make sure they are with you at all times and don't let them out of your sight.

• Never allow your children to use a public restroom alone. Always go with your children when using any public restroom.

• Be sure to monitor your child's Internet activity and make sure all computers are in a public room so you can monitor their Internet and computer activity. You can lock your computer and use Net Nanny Software to prevent your children from accessing unauthorized websites.

PROTECTING COLLEGE STUDENTS

Many of the safety rules talked about for children are applicable to college students. College students must pay extra attention to their personal safety. This is especially important to freshman who are new to campus and who may be targeted by upperclassmen.

• When staying in a college dormitory or apartment, know who your roommates are. Also make it clear about who you think should be allowed to come over to your home and who shouldn't be allowed to be in your building.

• Do not go out alone at night when on campus. Always travel with friends and stick with groups of students.

• Know where all of the EMERGENCY Blue Lights are located on campus and have the number to your campus police department programmed into your phone.

• Almost all campuses allow the carrying of Pepper Spray. Carry your SABRE Pepper Spray in your hand when in any potentially dangerous situation. This can be walking alone, jogging, using parking garages, parking lots, elevators etc. You should also keep a SABRE HM-80 home unit in your dorm room next to your bed. SABRE is available in a special Home and Away Protection kit that combines a HC-14 Key Chain unit with a HM-80 Home Unit for complete protection while on campus.

http://www.sabrered.com/servlet/the-147/SABREHomeAway-PepperSpray-ProtectionKit-Advanced/Detail

• Be extremely cautious when going to any party. Make sure you keep an eye on your drink and never ever except a drink from someone. Never leave your drink unattended.

• Do not allow yourself to become intoxicated. This will drastically lower your awareness level and make you much more vulnerable.

• Ask to see your campuses annual crime report. Pay attention to the type of crime son campus and be alert to any type of emergency alerts or postings by campus police.

• Be extra vigilant when using laundry facilities on or off campus. Stay aware of your surroundings and always have your defense spray with you and on your keys.

The purpose of this article is to help you better educate your children and young adults on how to protect themselves from crime. Remember that by discussing these important topics with your children you are teaching them something that can actually help them and may save their life. In fact, many schools now have special child lures programs that are taught to young children. College students are no exception to the rule. Young adults must also be taught the importance of personal safety and to stay alert.

Making Yourself a Tough Target

Gouging the eyes is a highly effective self defense technique that doesn't require a lot of strength

On June 7th, 2011 a 20 year old Madison Wisconsin woman was walking alone when she was suddenly attacked by a man in his 40's. The suspect began dragging the woman towards a nearby alley. However, this woman had a plan in place. She responded by spraying the man in the face with pepper spray. The suspect immediately went to his knees and began to scream in agony as the woman made a quick escape. There is no doubt about it, had this woman not been prepared she likely would have been sexually assaulted or worse. You can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of violent crime by having a plan in place that includes asking yourself the following:

• What if I find myself in a dangerous situation?
• Where will I go when I find myself in a dangerous situation?
• What will I do if I find myself in a dangerous situation?

Paranoia is when you worry about something that absolutely cannot happen and it's also called imagined fear. YOU ARE NOT BEING PARANOID WHEN YOU TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM VIOLENT CRIME! Open the metro section of your paper. Go to your local news affiliates crime tracker database. Go to the daily booking sheet for the Oklahoma County Jail. In each publication you will read about the various crimes that happen every single day in our cities, counties or state, many of which you would have never heard about on your local news. Like it or not, violent crime is an issue in our society! However, you don't have to be a victim! You can take steps ahead of time to protect yourself and your family.

MAKE YOURSELF A TOUGH TARGET

Moral of the story is the tough target doesn't get picked and if the tough target is selected they know exactly how they will respond to the situation. You don't have to take a martial arts class and learn 100 different moves to protect yourself. Having a personal defense strategy is also not about being fearful. By becoming more fearful you are not helping yourself and you may actually be sending the wrong message to someone who may target you. The purpose of this information is to empower you with the tools and education needed to defend yourself. If you have two people walking down the street, one of which is walking with their head down texting; the other person is walking with their head up, aware of what's going on and carrying their keys in hand with pepper spray attached which one do you think the guy is going to pick?

BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS

One of the best things you can do to protect yourself from violent crime is to be aware of whom and what is going on around you at all times. This is especially important when you are walking alone. Criminals are looking for someone who is distracted and not aware of their environment. You stand a much better chance of successfully defending yourself if you can see the threat coming.

AVOID DANGEROUS SITUATIONS

Having a pepper spray, stun gun or Taser with you doesn't mean its acceptable to place yourself in dangerous situations. It is sometimes common for someone with a new found level of self confidence to tell themselves "It's ok to jog in a secluded area at dark because I have a means of self defense." This is not the right attitude! Do not place yourself in any potentially dangerous situation. For example, if you are driving down to Dallas and need to stop for a bathroom break don't stop at a secluded rest stop. Instead drive to the next available well lit gas station or fast food place. If you are getting ready to leave the mall and don't feel right about someone, find the nearest security officer, police officer or go to the information booth and ask if you can receive an escort to your car. By avoiding dangerous situations you are helping prevent the likelihood that you will be targeted.

KNOW THE THREE STEPS TO AN ASSAULT

The classic Modus Operandi of an opportunistic assailant is almost always the same. Your attacker is likely to TARGET, TEST and then ASSAULT you. The assailant may or may not commit all three of the steps. For example, an assailant may target someone and then strike without testing them.

TARGETING

An assailant is looking for someone who is not aware of their surroundings. Some of the common characteristics the attacker will look for include:

• Leaving a store with your arms filled with packages.
• Being preoccupied with a cell phone or text messaging.
• Wearing clothing or shoes that restrict movement or the ability to flee quickly.
• Wearing an iPod or headphones.
• Having a distracted demeanor.
• Walking without confidence.

Do you look someone in the eye when you pass them on the street? Or do you look downward as you pass someone on the street? Many women will not look a man directly in the eye because they are afraid it will invite a comment or attention. This is actually the worst thing you can do! Never walk with your head down or look away from someone when passing them.

WALK WITH CONFIDENCE, HEAD UP, SHARP EYES, WITH KEYS AND TASER OR PEPPER SPRAY IN HAND. WALK LIKE YOU WOULD CAUSE AN UPROAR IF MESSED WITH!

TESTING

Let's say you have been targeted by a predator. If he is like most, he will now decide to test you in order to see how you react when someone you don't know approaches. He may say the following:

• "Excuse me, can you tell me what time it is?"
• "Ma'am or sir, I just need to use your cell phone. I was in a wreck and I need to call for help."
• "Can you tell me how to get to the mall?'

Or the attacker may make suggestive or vulgar comments like:

• "Nice ass!"
• "Great legs!"

What many don't realize is when someone is testing you they are closing the distance between themselves and you. Many people will actually look down at their watch as the assailant is approaching and that's when he will strike. The attacker wants to see if you will in fact let them in your space. The attacker may also look around just before striking.

IT TAKES LESS THAN 10 SECONDS FOR SOMEONE TO TAKE YOU TO A SECONDARY CRIME SCENE OR DRAG YOU INTO A CAR! NEVER EVER ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE TAKEN TO A SECOND LOCATION! NEVER GET IN THE CAR WITH SOMEONE EVEN IF THEY HAVE A GUN! ITS BETTER TO BE HURT IN A PARKING LOT WHERE PEOPLE CAN HELP YOU THEN BE DRIVEN TO A SECLUDED AREA!

The moment someone tests you turn around or face the person, look them straight in the eye and shout BACK OFF! STOP! or STAY BACK! Surprisingly many assailants will be intimidated by such a show of force from an individual. Shouting also helps you by opening up your lungs and it forces you to breathe which helps prevent you from freezing up.

THE FINAL STEP IS THE ASSAULT

If you have been targeted and tested the assailant may decide to continue to the third step. A grown man can close a distance of 20 feet in a second. This is not enough time to fish out your pepper spray or decide how you will react. Whichever non lethal tool you choose to carry it must be in your hand at the time the attack occurs. THIS IS WHY I STRONGLY RECOMMEND YOU CARRY YOUR A TASER C2 PERSONAL DEFENSE DEVICE. You can carry your TASER C2 in your hand when walking alone or in any potentially dangerous situation.

Know how to use effective self defense techniques that incapacitate a threat. Going to a gym and learning 100 different moves is not going to help you during an attack. Focus on a couple of different moves that don't require a lot of strength to work.

Eye Gouge

Gouging an assailant in the eyes is one of the most effective techniques. I said GOUGE not POKE! Make your fingers straight and rigid and hit the attacker full force in the eyes. The eyes are one of the most sensitive parts of the body. You don't even have to touch a person's eyes to create a reflexive movement. Keep striking the eyes and digging into the eyes until the attacker stops. If this does not work move on to the next step and CRUSH THE TRACHEA!

Trachea Strike

If you are truly in danger of grave bodily harm or sexual assault go for the attacker's throat! Reach up just under the chin and squeeze the throat as hard as you can. This can crush the windpipe and cause serious injury and or death to an attacker. This should only be done if your life is in danger.

IF THE ATTACKER CAN'T SEE OR BREATHE IT WILL BE HARD FOR HIM TO FIGHT!

FOCUS ON ESCAPE

If you are in a parking lot and an attacker comes up to you with a firearm and says "Get In!" YOU CAN'T GET IN! IF YOU GET IN THAT CAR YOU WON'T BE SEEN AGAIN! Now let's say the guy shoots at you while you run away. You may be asking yourself what are my chances of escaping without being killed? They are actually pretty good. If you break and run and the attacker shoots at you there is a 50% chance he will fire, a 50% chance he will hit you with the bullet, another 50% chance the bullet will hit a vital organ and another 50% chance that it will kill you. If you get in the car with the guy there is a near 100% chance you will not be seen again. DON'T GET IN THE CAR!

The purpose of this article is to help you better protect yourself from violent crime. It does not matter if you live in a one stop light town or a large metroplex. Violent crime knows no boundaries. It can happen to anyone, anyplace and at anytime. By taking steps to protect yourself and having a plan in place you can significantly reduce the chances of becoming a target. It starts with mind setting or mental preparation and then selecting personal defense hardware. OC SPRAY is an effective self defense option. Put yourself in the attacker's shoes. He had a plan in place of what he was going to do and you just disrupted it by using a TASER Device or Pepper Spray. Always know who and what is around you and stay alert. It's your best weapon for guarding your personal safety and your personal safety is Paramount.