We get communication on a regular basis from women who allege that they are victims of domestic violence or abuse. Some call, others fax, but most send email looking for help protecting themselves from their attackers. Reports against husbands, boy friends, ex-lovers include physical and mental abuse.

Most recently we received an email from a young woman seeking self defense products for use against her boy friend. She went on to explain that when he drinks he is often violent. Pushing, punching and verbal abuse are the norm after the boy friend has too much alcohol. Other examples involve ex-husbands who can’t seem to move on. Instead they stalk and terrorize the woman they once loved.

Most, but not all victims of domestic violence are women and the abuse occurs for one main reason: the need to totally control them. The abusive party may use guilt, fear, intimidation, or shame to break you physically and emotionally.

Are you or someone you love involved in an abuse relationship? Do you:

• are you afraid of your partner most of the time
• during conversation do you avoid talking about certain topics because you are afraid to make them mad
• have a feeling that nothing you do is right for your significant other
• feel depressed, emotionally drained, and/or think you are going crazy

Does your partner:

The above are some common signs that you are involved in an abusive relationship. If this hits too close to home you need to get yourself the help you need immediately. Of course if you need help right away call 911. If you need to speak with a confidential professional for help and advice contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE).

If you are afraid for your physical safety consider purchasing a self defense device. Learn how it works and what to expect should you need to use it. Once you’ve chosen the personal security device that works best for you, it is now time to practice over and over again.

Pepper spray does no good at the bottom of your purse when needed. If you can get in the habit of carrying pepper spray with you everywhere and learning how to utilize it effectively, your “piece of mind” will grow dramatically. It really doesn’t matter what your defense weapon is, the key is being able to properly use. No matter what the product is, practice is essential to improving your overall safety and self defense.

The holidays are here, Thanksgiving is only a week away and before we know it Christmas Day will be here. If your anything like me finding a unique, thoughtful and useful gift can be challenging to say the least. I have enough ties to start a small Ebay store! This year consider giving the gift of self defense and personal security.

Just this week a 5 year girl from North Carolina was sexually abused and killed. It is alleged that the mother sold or prostituted this little girl to grown men. Earlier this month a Ohio man was arrested after law enforcement, working off of a tip found the remains of at least 10 women in and around the alleged killers home. Everyone remembers the tragic story of Jaycee Dugard who was abducted at age 11 and held captive as a sex slave for 19 years. Dugard was forced to bear two children from her rapist. Thousands of girls and women are abducted and abused or even killed.

It scares me to death to think that my own daughter is at risk, but the reality is we all are. Self defense products such as tasers or pepper spray are proven to deter and even prevent crime. So why not make sure everyone you care about carries with them some form of personal defense.

Home security is also becoming essential to all of us. Our homes should be a safe haven. A place that you and your family feel most comfortable and safe. Just do the math regarding burglary in the US. Every 15 seconds a home is burglarized! There are many affordable home security products that you can use to vastly improve the chances that the ‘bad guys’ decide it’s to risky at your house. Portable door and window alarms are extremely effective, yet require on installation or technical skills to operate. Wireless motion sensors and complete security alarms are attractive alternatives to expensive monitored systems.

Do you have a daughter? If you do and you are like me; you need to figure out ways to channel your love in positive ways through education, awareness and trust. Think of each day as a new opportunity to teach and to educate. A new day to practice awareness skills and how to use a self defense product. Time to build strong bonds based on love and trust.

The Mace family of defense sprays are nothing short of impressive. No matter what your non-lethal self defense needs are Mace has you covered. For decades Mace has stood for premium quality self defense and security products. Mace has earned the trust of millions of consumers and businesses for decades. Investing heavily in research and development, Mace delivers with cutting edge defense product that you can count on.

One of their newest products is the Mace pepper gun. It is styled after a handgun revolver, but this gun is totally non-lethal and shoots a steam of pepper spray up to 25 feet. Mace calls it the most accurate pepper spray product on the market. It is equipped with an LED laser light, which is used to accurately aim the gun. The Mace Pepper Gun comes in four different colors and refill cartridges are easy to load and unload.

Mace pepper gel sticks like glue on an attackers face. Any attempt to remove it just grinds the active resin deeper into the eyes, nose and mouth. Gel has several benefits, increased range, stronger pepper spray, 1.4% capsaicinoid concentration, and less chance for cross contamination. Gel is perfect for use indoors or in close quarters where risk of cross contamination is high. The gel does not splatter and because the resin is suspended in gel inhalation is limited to the intended target.

Pepper Mace, tear gas, and a UV marking dye come together in one extremely potent self defense spray. Mace Triple action is exactly that! Available in 6 different sizes and 2 different spray patterns. This is a premium law enforcement grade chemical spray that can be counted on when you need it most.

These are just a few examples of Mace family of defense sprays. For all models and detailed information visit us today!

It is a fact that disproportionate levels of fear are reported by women related to falling victim to crime. Specifically, women experience much higher incidences of anxiety and stress related to fears associated with being raped or sexually assaulted. As unemployment rates reach record levels of over 10%, history reminds us that crime increases will follow.

Now more than ever many females report that, fear, stress and anxiety are at there highest levels. Most women want “piece of mind” and the increased self confidence that comes with the ability to protect themselves.

Today there are literally hundreds of great non-lethal self defense products that provide safety and home security for men and women alike. A product that has the potential to prevent or deter many of the sex crimes that women fear most is pepper spray disguised as lipstick. The concept is simple but the end result could be a rape prevented or a life saved!

Lipstick pepper spray provides discrete, effective and reliable protection in almost any situation. A self defense product designed by women and for women, it can be carried with confidence because it looks like real lipstick. With the cap on no one would ever suspect you were carrying pepper spray in disguise. If needed simply remove the cap, point and spray. The potent pepper spray will take effect immediately on an attacker and give the victim time to get to safety.

Some situations where disguised pepper spray could be invaluable; imagine your college aged daughter was going on a first date. At the end of the evening Mr. Wrong walks your daughter up to her apartment door. As she says good night and opens the door he forces his way in and begins acting sexually aggressive. Your daughter reaches into her purse grabs her “lipstick” and sprays. She will now have plenty of time to get herself to safety.

Your wife or daughter enjoy walking around the neighborhood each evening. It’s a great way to exercise and relieve stress. One evening while walking your wife and daughter are approached by a man who asks for money. They give him a couple dollars, but instead of going away, he begins following them. He begins demanding more money and violating there space. Your wife pops the cap off of her “lipstick” points and sprays him right in the face. You loved ones are able to get home safely.

Crime presents itself in many, many forms, the key to increasing your chances of a safe outcome depend on awareness and preparation. Whatever situation presents itself, if you practice awareness and preparation your chances of overcoming or even preventing an attack are much better. Carrying a product such as pepper spray is a form of preparation. Learning how to use it, what to expect, and then practicing is also preparation. Practicing common sense, trusting your gut, being alert as to what is going on around you is part of developing your awareness skills. If you are a female that fears being victimized by crime, take a proactive approach today that involves awareness and preparation. You will feel better about yourself and more importantly be much more prepared to protect yourself against criminals.

Home security should be a top priority in our lives, unfortunately most of us pay little attention until it’s too late. We live in a society were most of us are overworked, underpaid, and sleep deprived. How could we possibly have the time to worry out home security? Here are some eye opening statistics that emphasize why we can’t afford not to take some security seriously.

• A home not equipped with a security system or products is nearly three times more likely to be burglarized
• A home burglary occurs about every fifteen seconds or over 5700 times each day!
• The majority of home break-ins take place during the day (63%).
• The average loss per burglary or robbery in 2007 was nearly $2000

If you don’t take measures to protect your home you are asking for trouble. The good news is there are home security products that are affordable, reliable, and extremely effective. Until recently consumers had little to choose from when it came to protecting their residences. Now the products are plentiful and excellent alternatives to expensive wired security systems.

You can purchase a wireless security system with new emergency automatic dialing built in. This feature takes the place of expensive monthly monitoring fees. With automatic dialing, once the alarm is activated the system begins calling your pre-programmed emergency numbers. When the phone is answered on the other end they hear your pre-recorded emergency message. Most systems allow for up to five phone numbers and you can choose up to five different messages. You can customize your system by adding extra motion sensors and/or door and window sensors.

Many of us live in apartments, town homes, dorms, or small homes and really don’t need a large security system. In that case you should take a look at door and window alarms, mini motion sensors, glass breakage or vibration alarms, and steel door braces. These products are cost effective ways to secure smaller residences or even a small business. The technology they utilize is simple, but the bottom line is these products work to alert you of potential trouble while making the noise necessary to scare off most attackers.

Take time today to secure the widows and doors within your home with a home security device. You will provide yourself and family with added peace of mind and greatly improve your chances of deterring a would be burglar.

Don’t look now but Christmas is right around the corner. It is Sunday, November 8th and I’m asking myself where has the year gone? Just finished a grocery trip to Wal-Mart and was surprised to see all of their Christmas trees displayed and a line of people buying them up.

Over the last few weeks we’ve started receiving gift wrapping requests from some of our customers. Everything combined has me thinking about our holiday specials at Guardian Self Defense! Recently I put together our first self defense package special and the customer response was and still is tremendous. The name I gave this package was the Hot Shot Self Defense Package, because it featured one our Hot Shot mini stun gun.

This is a three inch tall stun gun that produces almost a million volts of real stopping power. It is powered by 3 volt lithium batteries and comes with a free holster and lifetime warranty. I mixed in a personal alarm, which is the electronic pocket whistle, you don’t blow it; instead you just push a button and sound the 120 decibel whistle alarm. Perfect for attracting attention in an emergency. To complete the package I threw in a 2 ounce pepper spray fogger, a great and dependable first line of defense, also great for dog and crowd control. There you have it that is our Hot Shot Self Defense Package and our customers love it!

To build on this for the holiday season, I created what we are calling The Vital Package, this has all of the essentials you need for complete non lethal protection.

I think our packages are awesome gift ideas for almost any occasion. What better way to say you care than to provide someone with products proven time and time again to prevent and even deter criminal attacks. The Vital security package provides you with cell stun gun, The Pretender; a key chain alarm with flashlight, our pepper spray triple pack and a book that teaches you how to effectively utilize.

Finally, I put together a complete self defense, home security and automotive safety package that is perfect for anyone but put together with college students in mind, hence the name College Self Defense and Home Security Package.

The College Safety Package includes the Runt 950K rechargeable stun gun, a dual function door brace, a motion sensor with alarm and emergency auto dial feature, the pepper spray triple pack, the four in one automotive emergency tool, and Mace brand Hot Walkers, which are pepper spray walking weights. Again, this was put together with the college student in mind but is an excellent package for just about anyone.

So there you have it, three self defense and home security products that are make perfect gift ideas for just about anyone . At Guardian Self Defense we wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas.

Expandable steel batons are affordable, dependable, and effective self defense weapons. Some people refer to them as telescopic , others as friction lock steel batons; in either case they have replaced the “billy club” in most law enforcement circles. For good reason, expandable steel batons are nearly indestructible; they last forever. In the closed position they are compact, only seven to ten inches; so they are easy to take just about anywhere. With the flip of the wrist they expand and lock into place (hence friction lock). The smallest model is 16″ in its expanded position, other models measure 21 and 26 inches respectively.

As a self defense weapon you want something that allows you to defend yourself from a distance. This is the main reason law enforcement has adopted the expandable baton. The length of my extended arm is approximately 27 inches, if I am holding the baton in its extended position then I have the ability to defend myself from a minimum of 42 inches (four feet) away. The further you can remain from an attacker the better off you’ll be. With the steel baton not only can you keep your distance but you can disable an attacker from a safe distance. Aggressive dogs present a very real problem to walker, joggers, and bikers. With a telescopic baton you can easily keep a dog at bay.

In addition to a very effective self defense weapon, the baton allows for an LED light attachment. The LED attachment screws right on the back of the baton. The attachment is very durable and has a 6,000 hour life.

Several months ago you heard the story of Jaycee Duggard; she was kidnapped and held captive for over 18 years by convicted sexual predator Phillip Garrido. Duggard was taken at the age of 11 and forced to be a sex slave to this “animal”. He also made her bore two of his children; Jacycee nor her children were not even allowed to see a physician. Garrido, tortured and abused Duggard and the children for years, all from the comfort of his home. He hid them in a large, fenced backyard where they lived in a series of tent like rooms that didn’t even have plumbing. Over the years law enforcement officers visited Garrido’s home many, many times. Because he was a convicted sexual predator, police were required to keep tabs on him. During the 11 year stretch no one had a clue as to what Jaycee and those kids had to endure daily.

This week another convicted sexual predator is making the news. Anthony Sowell, a convicted sex offender was arrested by Ohio police on rape and at least four counts of murder. As of late today the body count ten corpses have been found in and around Sowell’s home. The Cleveland Chief of Police made the following comment to the press “It appears that this man had an insatiable appetite that he had to fill.” It appears that Sowell, raped, killed, decapitated or cut up the victims, and buried or hid the bodies throughout his basement and backyard. Again, officers were required to keep tabs on him because he had been convicted of sex crimes in the past.

These are just two examples of convicted sexual predators who re-offended over and over again. Both committing truly heinous crimes. How many other sexual predators are out there offending time and time again? Many researchers feel that rehabilitation is not useful and that the majority of predators will re-offend. I agree with this assessment 100% and believe that we must take action to remove these criminals from society.

How do we prepare to provide our family and community with the self defense and home security necessary to minimize the chances of becoming a victim. In most states, unless you get lucky you won’t know how truly dangerous these people are. As a parent, grandparent, or caring citizen what are our choices when it comes to protecting our families and providing them with the necessary security?

SVP’s as they are referred to, Sexual Violent Predators, are the worst of the worst. Examples of SVP’s are those that abuse children, some as young as two years old; and serial rapists. These people cannot be allowed back into society but they are, time and time again. Both Garrido and Sowell were SVP’s prior to re-committing. There are options, castration, life in prison, and death by lethal injection. For me that’s it.

Most Psychiatrist’s will tell you that these people suffer from a mental disorder that can’t be cured. Some do say it can be “managed” but would you want an offender trying to “manage” in your neighborhood? Some of the program’s that attempt to help offenders “manage” take upwards of six years to complete. Even with this long term attempt at rehab the recidivism rates can be as high as 71%! I can’t afford to take that chance can you? It is time we demand a “zero tolerance” stance on sexual predators. Anything less is unacceptable.

How safe are our kids on college and University campuses today? There is no doubt that the great majority of our higher education institutions are some of the safest places to be. The problem or concern is that typically a kids time on campus is only a few hours daily. They go to class, maybe go eat lunch and the rest of the day is spent off campus.

When a student leaves for college it can be a very difficult and emotional time for both the parents and the kid. For eighteen years they’ve lived under their parents roof and care. Though most have planned for this day it can still be very hard for parents to “let go”. The biggest fear for most parents relates to the overall safety of their kid.

Dangers off campus are real and unfortunately there are criminals who target college apartments and communities. Fortunately there are self defense products that are affordable, dependable, and very effective; when used properly these products have the ability to deter or prevent crime.

As a parent or guardian take the opportunity to communicate with your children about common sense safety and awareness. If you need a reference or talking points visit our safety tips page. Make sure your kid knows that you are there for them no matter what. Consider providing them with self defense and home security products that will help keep them safe and give you extra “piece of mind”. Our College Safety Pack is the perfect gift for any college age student or young adult.

The College Safety Pack includes the Runt 950,000 volt rechargeable stun gun, the Pepper Shot Triple Pack Defense Sprays, Hot Walkers Exercise Weights with pepper spray defense, a Dual Function Door Brace, Home Safe Auto Dialer Security and Safety Alarm, and the 4 in 1 Auto Emergency Tool.

At Guardian Self Defense, we are dedicated to increasing the awareness and education related to all aspects of child safety. Occasionally, there is a product or products that we investigate and feel has the potential to make a difference as it relates to child safety. Currently, one of the most prevalent dangers to our children is the internet. Children have the ability to communicate with friends and explore the world through so many mediums. At the same time, the internet presents extreme danger to our young people in the form of complete strangers, many of who prey on our youth.

INTELLISPY computer tracking software is a breakthrough in technology that gives parents and guardians the ability to see and track everything that your child does online. Now I can hear some of you now saying, “Isn’t this crossing the line? Are we invading our childrens’ privacy.” As a father I understand your thinking, but let me show you why you can’t afford NOT to keep close tabs on your children and their internet habits.

Do you realize how many children go missing in the U.S. each year? Over 800,000 children are reported missing each and every year, more than 2,000 per day. In addition, 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 10 boys will be sexually victimized before they tun 18. It is important for parents and guardians to be aware and alert. With this computer tracking software you can do just that.

Some of the excellent benefits of running this internet tracking software is:

• This is key logging software, meaning you get to see everything typed onto the keyboard; including but not limited to emails, instant messages, social networking activity, chat, etc.
• Screen shots are captured at one minute intervals, so you see snapshots of what your kids are seeing.
• You can choose to block certain website access; if you feel a web site is inappropriate for your child you can easily disable it.
• INTELLISPY software is completely stealth. If someone closes the program or shuts down the computer, it is programed to restart automatically. Basically, you are the only one who can turn it off.

This internet tracking software will increase your piece of mind as a parent or guardian, it is also likely to give you many opportunities to communicate with your children. Use this time to teach and coach them on what is right and wrong, normal and not normal and the very real dangers that the internet presents. The object is not to scare them, but rather to educate and guide.

I’m sure you’ve heard the recent stories of child abductions. In some cases the children are held hostage and sexually abused over time. In the high profile story of Jaycee Dugard, she was abducted is 1991 and held hostage in the home of her abductor for over a decade. She was forced to be a sex slave which resulted in the birth of two children.

Then there was young Haleigh Cummings, the five year old supposedly was taken from her bed in the middle of the night while sleeping in the same room with a seventeen year old caretaker. Most recently, the body of Somer Thompson was found discarded like a piece of trash in a landfill about 50 miles from her home. The young seven year old was abducted while walking home from school. Her killer is still at large.

These are the most disturbing of violent crimes as they target our innocent youth. Tragic, disturbing, sickening and outrage would be a few of the words used to describe the feelings of most parents towards a person capable of taking a child, raping them, assaulting them and killing them. Even more disturbing is that the threat of child abduction is very real and the prevalence is increasing at startling rates.

It is up to us, parents, guardians, and caretakers, to ensure the safety, self defense, security and well being of our children. Providing a safe haven for our children is our responsibility, as a result we all need to start today with a plan to accomplish this. I encourage you to consider teaching your children the following safety rules. Your kids should be able to answer yes to each of these questions.

I always check first with my parents or the person in charge before I go anywhere or get into a car, even with someone I know.

Simple, basic, easy to teach and learn, but absolutely crucial that your child understands this. If you think your youngster understands rule number one then test them. Have a family friend attempt pick them up from school, or try to take them to the game room at the mall or maybe for some candy.

Many of you will be shocked to find out how easy it is to get your child into someone’s car without your knowledge. This is not a time to get angry and scold or discipline your kids. Instead, use that time and energy to communicate effectively with your children, then practice over and over and over again.

I always check first with my parents or a trusted adult before I accept anything from anyone, even from someone I know.

Same is true here. Child abductors will often attempt to gain the trust and acceptance of your youth by buying gifts for them. Over time the hope is that they will become a trusted friend and this is when tragedy can strike.

I always take a friend with me when I go places or play outside.

The “buddy system” is a very good idea and both children should understand the importance of mastering these safety rules.

I know my name, address, telephone number, and my parents’ names.

Can your kids recite there full name, phone number and parents’ names.

I say no if someone tries to touch me or treat me in a way that makes me feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused.

Children need to know that it is ok to say NO to an adult or anyone if things don’t feel right.

I know that I can tell my parents or a trusted adult if I feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused.
It’s OK to say no, and I know that there will always be someone who can help me.
I am strong, smart, and have the right to be safe.

To summarize:

• CHECK FIRST
• TAKE A FRIEND
• TELL SOMEONE I TRUST IF SOMETHING IS WRONG

These are simple safety rules. Use them today to begin the process of educating your youngster against the dangers present in society.

• STAY STRONG, SMART, AND SAFE

As the father of a young girl, it is priority number one to make sure she is always safe with or without me. I can’t be with her 24/7, though I wish I could. What I can do is provide her with the awareness needed to deter and hopefully prevent any crime against her. Encourage your friends and neighbors with children to get involved. It is time for us as parents to step up and provide the security and safe haven our kids depend on.

Our prayers go out to the family of Somer Thompson. What kind of animal would perpetrate this type of crime against a seven year old girl? I woke up Thursday morning to hear the national news reporting on this story and it made me sick to my stomach. As the father of two young children, this hit all to close to home.

As I understand it the body of Somer Thompson was found in a landfill about 50 miles from her home. Police followed garbage trucks on a route near her home to the landfill dumping ground. After shifting through hundreds of pounds of trash police found the young girls body. The death was ruled a homicide and autopsy reports are pending.

What we know is that Somer was on her way home from school when she vanished. Somer, her sister and another child were making the mile long walk from their school in Orange Park. Evidently, Somer and the other child had an argument and Somer ran ahead of the others never to be seen again. Over 70 registered sex offenders live within a five mile radius of her home.

The person or persons responsible for this crime must be brought to justice. In my opinion they don’t deserve to live. We are dealing with a very sick individual here and until the suspect is brought to justice there will be sleepless nights.

Surveillance equipment used to be reserved for large businesses because of the cost, setup and expertise needed to operate and maintain. Less than five years ago when you heard the term surveillance or security camera you would probably think about shoplifting. That’s because most surveillance systems were owned by large brick and mortar retailers and mall chains. The major use to prevent external and internal theft, as well as various forms of fraud. The investment made in surveillance equipment was and is returned numerous times over in the form decreased inventory loss.

Today, due to enhanced technology, small businesses and consumers can easily afford the investment in a surveillance system. In fact, a growing trend in neighborhood and even personal home security involves the use of surveillance systems to monitor and record going-ons. Many neighborhood watch organizations are wisely investing in surveillance cameras to monitor the main entry ways into subdivisions. In addition to being a huge crime deterrent, these security cameras record everything that goes on 24/7. This can provide police with the visual evidence needed to prosecute or the lead needed to break a case.

Homeowners are also making investments in surveillance systems to add security and piece of mind. The options are many but a top quality complete 4 camera system is less than $1500. A basic system runs about $500. If you are serious about your home and/or business security, then surveillance is a no-brainer. Consider the fact that a violent crime takes place every 23 seconds and property crime every 16 seconds. This coupled with the fact that over 1 in 4 of us will be the victim of crime at some point in our lifetime, should be enough to get you excited about the benefits of surveillance.

Self defense products, personal protection and home security alarms are prevalent in most households throughout the US. To complete your self defense plan, surveillance is the next logical step. Consider what would happen today if someone invaded your home, what if a young child was abducted while playing in your front yard, or what if vandals decided to break into your vehicle. Most of us would have to be extremely lucky in order to have justice served. With a surveillance system chances are very good that the crime event would be recorded and captured.

I challenge you to research the many benefits of security cameras for your personal residence as well as business needs. It would also to be beneficial to your neighborhood watch or homeowners association to present the idea of installing surveillance cameras at the main entry ways into and out of your subdivision. You will be surprised at the number of individuals who would be willing to pay a fee to pay for this type of security service.

Each year the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) releases detailed crime statistics for the United States. As you might imagine the time necessary to “crunch the numbers” takes awhile. As a result the most up-to-date US crime statistics have just been released for 2008. If you don’t realize or believe that crime is a major problem everywhere in the United States, then you are about to be enlightened. It is amazing to me how so many of us just are not aware of the major problems that crime and drugs present in our communities daily. We get up and go about our daily routine “blind” to the fact of just how dangerous the society we live in is. Typically, when we realize the danger it is too late and a tragedy just took place.

Some real crime statistics to consider are:

• Every half hour a murder takes place somewhere in the U.S.! That means nearly 48 people are murdered daily.
• Rape and sexual assault are at epidemic levels and nearly half of all cases go unreported! Every six minutes a forced rape takes place in the United States. That is 10 victims per hour and 240 a day!
• Every 23 seconds a violent crime takes place. Nearly three per minute. Almost 180 per hour! Over 4200 per day!

Hopefully, this got your attention. If not take a minute and do some research at fbi.gov to confirm the accuracy of what I’m telling you. Think about this analogy for a moment. Most of us get up each and everyday prepared and ready to go to work. The motivation is to provide for yourself and family. The check you bring home helps provide basic needs such as food, shelter and clothing. Now consider that nearly one in four of us will be the victim of crime at some point in our lives. If you don’t make personal safety and home security a top priority in your life right now you are doing yourself and family an injustice.

So what can you do to make sure security is your top priority?

We recommend taking a real world, no nonsense approach to home security, personal safety and self defense. Don’t try to do too much and don’t do it alone. Remember the old saying about power in numbers? Well it is a fact, that there IS power in numbers, so use it to your advantage.

• Many local law enforcement agencies offer home security consultations free of charge. This means someone from the police department will come out evaluate your home and property. They will identify potential safety vulnerabilities and offer advice on how to add the needed security.
• Most communities have numerous non-profit agencies focused in some sense on community safety. Do a bit of research and you will likely find self defense training classes either free of charge or for a nominal charge. The benefits of this type of training are many. First, they are taught by licensed professionals and the focus is on awareness. Just mastering the valuable skill of awareness can be enough to deter and even prevent crime! The people you will meet and the relationships you will cultivate and make a real difference. It is amazing at what can be accomplished when a group of people come together with a common goal.
• Check into Neighborhood Watch organizations if one is present join, if not consider starting one up. The police can’t be everywhere and they welcome this type of crime support.
• Form partnerships within your neighborhood and plan to ensure that everyone is looking out for each other. If you can secure a handful of neighbors in a small neighborhood and maybe ten if you live in a larger area. These are safety partnerships, you literally look out for each other. Exchange important contact information and discuss what to look for and how to handle
• Consider investing in home security products. Portable and wireless alarm systems are dependable and cost effective alternatives available. You can easily secure doors and windows with alarms that will alert you of a problem, while deterring a would be criminal.
• Self defense products, such as pepper spray, can save your life. Purchase a good pepper spray, learn how to use it and practice, practice, practice.

Violent crime is prevalent in our society. Unfortunately, this is not going to change, in fact in all likelihood it will get worse as our economy continues to struggle. Millions are unemployed and drug abuse is at it’s highest level. You can be a difference maker, you can bring much needed awareness and attention to our crime problem. By following our “power in numbers” strategy and the no nonsense safety tips we listed you will have made home security and personal safety a top priority.

Do you know someone who has been victimized by domestic violence. Do you have a friend of loved who is a victim of domestic violence. The truth is that approximately 1.3 million women and 835,000 men annually are victims of some form of domestic violence in the U.S. Though it is very prevalent, domestic violence is wrong on every level, it is unacceptable and if you are a victim and reading this remember IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT.

You are not alone, your safety and well being are the most important thing. If you find yourself in a situation where you need immediate assistance call 911 or HAVEN 877.922.1274

Abusive relationships are so very dangerous and often lead to progressively worse injuries and even death. If you are in an abusive relationship you have several things to consider and think about. It is very easy and somewhat naive for me to say GET OUT NOW! In many cases, it is much more complicated. So let me say this, if you are in a relationship with an abuser they will not change. Do not think for a second that there behavior toward you will change for the better, because it won’t, in fact in most cases it will get worse.

Should you find yourself in a situation where you feel as if you can’t or won’t be able to get out, then you need to have a safety plan.

1. Gather all important and emergency telephone numbers and program them into your phone(s). Ask them to call the police if they hear angry or violent noises. Children should be taught about the importance of 911, how to dial it and what to say.

2. Make sure someone knows about the abuse. Wether it is a neighbor, friend or family member. Think of these people as your personal “neighborhood watch” They should know to contact police if they hear yelling or angry noises.
3. Consider purchasing aself defense product that you can learn to use effectively to protect yourself from attack. You will be amazed at the improved self esteem and confidence that comes with knowing you can and will protect yourself if need be. Purchase a good pepper spray, take time to practice, and educate yourself on the effects and what to expect should you need to use the pepper spray in a certain situation.
4. Self defense classes are offered in many communities at the YMCA, police departments, and even local colleges. In most cases you will find emotional support from others in the classes and in many cases these self defense classes are very cheap or even free.
5. Think about ways to get into and out of your home or apartment safely. Now practice these routes over and over.

If you are considering leaving an abuser you have more things to think through.

• Where would you go. Try to think of 4 safe havens you could get to, should you decide to leave for good.
• Identify the person(s) who could lend you money, clothing, and food. Communication with these people is essential as they are the ones you are closest to and trust the most.
• If you don’t have your own credit card, bank account and cell phone you need to work toward getting them.
• How would you leave? How would you get out? Now practice, practice. If you are thinking of taking the dog for a walk and not coming back then you should work through the logistics until you are confident that you can get out and get to safety.
• If children are involved, then you have to protect yourself without putting your kids in harms way. Domestic violence with children involved is so very complicated and dangerous. When kids are involved, then the urgency to get out and to get everyone to a safe house is all that matters. Consider contacting Haven for assistance and training 877.922.1274

For more help and resources contact the U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800.799.7233

Guardian Self Defense & Security Products is happy to announce two new professional pepper spray products by Defense Technology. Those of us in the industry know the name Defense Technology (DT) or First Defense and that it stands for exceptional quality self defense products. Specifically, DT specializes in aerosol and chemical defense sprays as well as tactical and police equipment and training.

We are happy to be carrying the latest from DT called First Defense 360º. The major benefit is you can spray this pepper spray from any angle and be assured of a consistent stream pattern. With new First Defense® 360º you could literally be standing on your head while spraying it and it will work in just the same manner as if you were standing upright.

The pepper spray is still the same premium OC formula. The propellant is compressed air with a technology called barrier separation. Simply put the there is a barrier between the compressed air and the OC pepper spray. No additional training or education is necessary and it is available for civilian use.

Features of First Defense 360º:

• Stream pepper spray pattern
• 360º sprays from any angle.
• Non-flammable, can be used with Taser devices
• Non-vaporizing
• Four-year shelf life
• Available in 1.47 or 3.00 ounces

Product specification sheet is linked below.

This just in…The Orleans Parish Prison in New Orleans was found to be in violation of the prisoners civil rights. The justice department found that the conditions within the prison were unconstitutional.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME! This is jail a place where convicted criminals are sent to do their time. This is not a high class hotel with wonderful amenities. The convicts inside the Orleans Parish Prison have been sentenced for crimes such as burglary, rape, assault, homicide, molestation, car jacking, robbery, drug crimes and much more. They are not what you would call model citizens by any means. Most are repeat offenders who have found there way in and out of the criminal justice system most of their lives.

The U.S. Department of Justice released a report last week that focused on lack of inmate safety and mental health care. How about the Justice Department concentrate on providing the free citizens of America a safe environment to live and raise a family. The mission of the Department is as follows:

To enforce the law and defend the interests of the United States according to the law; to ensure public safety against threats foreign and domestic; to provide federal leadership in preventing and controlling crime; to seek just punishment for those guilty of unlawful behavior; and to ensure fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans.

In this report it was noted that inmates at the New Orleans jail are not sufficiently protected from violence inflicted by other inmates or from “excessive use of force” by prison staff. This has got to be one of the most ridiculous statements I’ve ever heard and millions of our tax dollars went into producing the statement. Lets think about this for a moment, we take and put convicted killers, drug addicts, rapists, and other violent offenders in a place we call prison to pay for their crimes. These criminals come are from rival gangs and of different races. Do we really expect them to be on there best behavior and not kill each other? Then you have the prison guards, when violence breaks out should they just sit around and act like nothing is happening or would you rather them use the force necessary to regain order?

The report also criticized the prison staff for using restraints on the mentally ill inmates. Are you serious? In my opinion, most potentially dangerous population in the prison would have to be the mentally ill. Everyone of them should be restrained unless they were confined to a cell or under one on one guard supervision.

Don’t get me wrong, I believe these people are entitled to shelter, food, clothing, personal hygiene, etc. There are basic needs should be met, but anything above that is up for debate. Many of our homeless population are starving but they are not entitled to the three hot meals of a convicted rapist or murderer. Something is wrong with that picture.

If your like most of us we have been taught to fear electricity. We think about the killing power of lightning or touching a live wire and being electrocuted. The truth is those types of electricity can indeed lead to death. But in smaller amounts, electricity is harmless. In fact, our bodies need electricity to function. Everything we do requires electrical currents and communication between nerve cells and the brain.

If you want to tie your shoe, your brain has to send an electrical current down to a nerve cell toward the muscles in your hands and fingers. The electrical signal tells the nerve cell to release a neurotransmitter, the bodies communication chemical, to the muscle cells. The message tells the muscles in the hand and fingers to expand and contract in just the right way to tie your shoes. When you touch your shoe strings an electrical current is sent from the hand to the brain, telling you what the strings feel like. Think of the bodies electrical communication system kind of like that of a telephone network. Your brain is the main hub or network with communication lines going to and from every part of the body. Specific electrical currents are transmitted over the communication lines to deliver messages.

The stun gun works by disrupting this communication system. A stun gun generates a high voltage, low amperage electrical shock or charge. Think of voltage as pressure and amperage as intensity. So when you pull the trigger on a stun gun and make contact with an assailant the stun gun releases an electrical charge that passes into the attackers body. The high voltage, high pressure charge gives it the ability to pass through thick clothing and into the skin. Yet the low amperage usually about 3-5 milliamps, does not have the intensity to do permanent damage to an attacker unless it is applied for extended time periods.

In less than a second the stun gun begins dumping confusing electrical communication into the attackers central nervous system. The result is one of the following:

• The incoming charge combines with the bodies natural electrical signals in the brain. The original signal gets mixed with this outside electricity from the stun gun, which makes it nearly impossible for the brain to decipher the electrical messages. In essence the communication lines go down, causing confusion, loss of balance and temporary paralysis.
• Some stun guns and tasers use an electrical current with combined with a pulse frequency that mimics the bodies own electrical signals. This type of charge tricks the attackers muscles into doing a great deal of work very quickly and inefficiently. In a matter of seconds the attackers energy reserves are depleted leaving them too weak and fatigued to move for several minutes.

Simply put this his exactly how stun guns do what they do. All in a matter of seconds, they can incapacitate an attacker for several minutes; giving you time to get to safety. Unlike a handgun, stun guns won’t cause any permanent damage and are termed non-lethal self defense weapons. In general, a higher voltage stun gun requires less contact time to get the desired effect. For example, a 200,000 volt stun gun may take three seconds to fully incapacitate someone; a 650,000 volt unit may do the same thing in half that time.

Today’s stun devices are affordable and reliable. Most come with a true life time warranty. If they break, stop working, or won’t hold a charge you can send them back for replacement. Retailers would not be able to offer these type of warranties unless the products were made well.

Stun guns continue to gain popularity and believe it or not consumers are now using stun guns for both human self defense and animal control. Stun guns work extremely well against aggressive dogs and other animals.

Everyone should have a folding pocket knife. It’s one of those necessary tools that you should not leave home without. If you fish there is always a need for a cutting tool, something to help cut through fishing line. Hunters always have a need for pocket knives. Whether they need to cut through rope or to open canned food, knives come in handy.

At Guardian Self Defense we offer a nice selection of twenty affordable, quality pocket knives. Our new lineup offers something for everyone. All of our knives are .420 stainless steel and made to last. We offer two premium Damascus steel models, these are as good as it gets. You will be impressed with the quality and the prices.

Personal alarms serve one major self defense product role; to direct attention toward you. Finally, a multi-function alarm that is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and versatile enough to protect the doors and windows within your home.
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The next generation of wireless personal alarms is here. It’s called the UFO Alarm and it is a 7 in 1 total security alarm. They are available in 6 different colors. You are going to fall in love with this product!

The features include:

• A personal security alarm: You have two powerful personal alarm options. Should you find yourself in a “sticky” situation press the “panic” button to activate a loud siren alarm. You can also pull the wrist strap out activating a flashing strobe light as well as the siren alarm.
• Purse snatch alarm prevents “grab and go’s”. Put the included wrist strap around your wrist, then attach the snap hook to your purse, handbag, or backpack. If someone tries to grab it, the UFO alarm and strobe light will sound instantly, getting you the help and attention needed.
• A bright and handy flashlight. Hold down the light button to activate. Great added feature for night safety while walking or exercising.
• The UFO alarm can protect your home by turning into a door handle alarm. Just hang the included door knob strap on the door handle. Next, insert the closed alligator clip into the gap between the door and frame. When the door is opened, the alarm siren and strobe light will be activated immediately.
• Secure your windows with this multi-purpose alarm. Hang the door knob strap on the hook next to the window. Insert the closed alligator clip into the gap between the window and frame. Once the window is opened, the alarm siren and strobe light are activated.
• Protect your main entry way with the patented burglar alarm feature when you plan to be out or away. Works on any entry way door. If entry is attempted the strobe light and siren will sound.
• Protect the security of your office and desktop with the UFO alarm. The alarm function for drawers is effective for protecting private documents and valuables. If entry is attempted the multi-function alarm and strobe will be activated immediately.

This is a quality security alarm product that combines the functionality of 7 different alarms all in one. This is a must have product for college students as well as the elderly. The UFO alarms make unique and thoughtful gifts.

Pepper spray equipped ATM machines are here and here to stay. Pepper spray is currently being used in select ATM machines in South Africa. As part of a pilot program Absa Bank of South Africa has developed a pepper spray module that fits inside the ATM machine.

ATM technology currently uses the surveillance camera and a high tech software program. If the camera on the machine detects tampering with the card slot in an attempt to install a skimming device or explosives, the software kicks in and the ATM kiosk releases a debilitating cloud of pepper spray.

This comes after numerous Absa Bank ATM machines were bombed last year and another 40 were found to have skimming software installed. The thought process is that the unsuspecting criminals will be sprayed and become incapacitated long enough for law enforcement to arrive and make the arrest. The concept is a great one, but Absa is still working out the “kinks”. Three of its own maintenance workers were mistakenly sprayed while working on one of the units. Paramedics had to be called to the scene.

This is only the beginning of what I’m calling the tech generation of self defense and security products. Criminals soon won’t know what hit them! Technology is such that surveillance cameras can capture images of your vehicle including the license plate number of people running through red lights. A ticket with the surveillance proof is then mailed to the offenders home. In just the same way that the surveillance camera captures the license plate number; surveillance and software will deploy the defense products of the near future.

In the next few years the emphasis that will be put on home and personal security is going to be extraordinary. If I sent most of you a survey and asked you to list what you considered to be your top five priorities in life chances are security would rank right up there. As unemployment rates continue to skyrocket so to will crime rates. Terrorism will become a very real concern that will demand our attention and resolve.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Chances are you’ve been affected by breast cancer in some form or fashion. You’ve either been diagnosed or you know someone or a friend of a friend of a person who is fighting breast cancer. Well the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is a tremendous organization who actively fight to extend women’s lives through education and early detection. The NBCF provides support and caring to those diagnosed with breast cancer as well as their family members. The goal is to provide cancer victims with fulfilling lives during their treatment and beyond. The survival rates continue to steadily increase and a cure may not be far away. You know as we do how expensive it is to conduct clinical tests and promising studies; with the hope of developing a cure or vaccine that would literally save hundreds of thousands of lives each year. To do that the foundation needs monetary support.

This year Guardian Self Defense & Security Products has partnered with Sabre Red, a leading manufacturer of high quality self defense products. We will begin offering the Sabre Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Pepper Spray keychain. A portion of all proceeds will go directly to the NBCF to help find a cure.

A donation to the NBCF is made for each pink pepper spray unit sold through Guardian-self-defense.com. The Quick Release PINK PEPPER SPRAY with detachable key chain allows immediate access to your defense spray when unlocking a door or driving an automobile. The most popular SABRE style, the NBCF PINK PEPPER SPRAY Quick Release, is a powerful 0.54 oz container delivering a ballistic stream which reduces wind blow-back about 8-10 feet. Approximately 25 shots are contained in the compact canister.

I challenge you to go out and buy one of these pepper spray units for everyone you truly care about. You will be providing real self defense and personal protection. In addition, you will be helping to be able to donate much needed money to breast cancer research.

If there is one group of professionals who are under paid and under appreciated it has to be law enforcement officers. Most civilians have absolutely no idea what these ladies and gentlemen do all in a days work. I have family and several friends who are dedicated officers and will do anything in their power to keep their community’s safe and secure. Almost daily you can turn on the local news or pick up a newspaper and find a negative “cop story” but very seldom do we hear about all the good they do.

Each and everyday they put their lives on the line for us. Every time a vehicle is pulled over, a domestic dispute is called in, or a robbery is in progress, these first responders are there. They don’t have the luxury of knowing what they are about to walk into. These men and women have parents, wives and children, just like we do. Yet while we go to the office each day these “heroes” go out to fight drugs, crime and violence.

We are starting a series of blogs titled Top Cops. Each week we will highlight at least one officer for their extraordinary service. Today it is San Antonio Officer Pedro Garcia, who saved the life of a critically wounded officer and helped rescue another during a shootout on the south side of San Antonio.

Last September Garcia and his partner responded to a call of shots fired. During a domestic violence situation to offender opened fire on three other officers as they attempted to arrest him.
September. Garcia arrived on the scene of a gun fight. He was able to provide cover for a fellow officer, enough cover to get him out of harms way and to safety.

In the gunfire rookie cop Brandy Roell was shot in the back. The rookie had only been on the force for one month. Garcia found Roell in critical condition, bleeding badly form the stomach and exposed intestines. Officer Garcia new he needed to get her medical attention right away. The problem he faced was he and the other officers were inside a area with a locked perimeter security fence. Garcia radioed to another officer and instructed them to “ram” through the fence with their patrol car which he did.

Garcia put Roell over his shoulder and ran her to the waiting patrol car. The run toward the waiting patrol car left him open and exposed to gun fire. He could have easily been shot and killed. Because of his willingness to put everything on the line for his fellow officer Roell survived and thankfully Garcia was unharmed.

It is officers like this that go out and take on the “war on crime” and help provide us all with the self defense and security we are accustomed to.

One of the questions I get asked the most is, “What is the best stun gun for women”? Though there are many different models to choose from and each has it’s own set of benefits, my choice is the Pink Pretender Cell Phone Stun Gun!

The Pretender is the ideal non-lethal self defense weapon for most females. It really looks like a cell phone, so it can be worn on the belt, carried in the hand or purse. You can safely take it anywhere you go, so you’ll always have it when it may be needed most. The Pretender is a very powerful stun gun, producing nearly 1,000,000 volts. It is also mega small and compact at only 3.8 inches tall.

This pretty in pink cell stun gun comes equipped with a 12 LED flashlight, which is an excellent feature and added bonus on the Pretender.

Features include:

• 950,000 volt Stun Gun
• Built in 12 LED Flashlight
• Two levels of protection to prevent accidental discharge.
• Safety switch must be in “on” position and “trigger” pressed to emit high voltage shock.
• FREE Batteries ($12.00 value) Three CR2 long life lithium batteries.
• FREE Leatherette Holster with Belt Clip ($10.00 value)
• Only 3.8 inches tall.

If you are a carrying husband or boyfriend, maybe a father or grandfather; one of the best gifts you can give a daughter, granddaughter, wife or friend is the gift of safety. What better way to say “I love you” then to provide them with a self defense product proven to deter and prevent crime?

Do you have a security system protecting your home, apartment or office? If not, the question I’d ask you is “Why don’t you?” Every 15 seconds in America a burglary is taking place. That’s nearly 6000 burglary’s per day. The odds of you becoming the next statistic are increasing daily. If you don’t take proactive steps to deter criminals your chances are become much greater.

Criminals don’t like obstacles, they don’t like things that seem difficult, most are looking for an easy place to get in, rob, and get out. Those of us who take steps to secure and protect our home and businesses are much less likely to fall victim. So if you have a home security alarm use it. If you don’t it’s probably time to purchase one.

Today’s home security systems are wireless, require no setup, installation is really easy, and the cost is very affordable. Consider the Mace Wireless Home Security System and you can quickly and easily provide high quality security to your home or small business.

With the Mace system you get a base or main control unit. Housed inside the base unit is the 105 deicbal alarm. The standard system is equipped with a door/window sensor, a motion detector and a remote control which allows you to arm and disarm remotely or push the “panic” button in an emergency. The most attractive part of the Mace home security system is that it can be customized to meet the needs of a home or business owner.

If you live in a small home or apartment then the base unit is probably all you need. If you live in a larger home or need to secure a business or warehouse then you are going to need more than one motion detector and window/door sensor. You can add up to 14 additional wireless sensors to the Mace security system.

You also have the ability to pre-program up to five emergency numbers into this security system. No more monitoring fees, when the alarm is triggered you can have the unit call 911, when the operator picks up they will here your pre-programmed message! This is an excellent wireless home security system and unlike wired units, if you move you can take it with you.