Self Defense Options Proven To Stop Violent Crime

Bourbon Street is synonymous with fun, partying, and good times. Unfortunately, in recent weeks, this tourist magnet is making news for all the wrong reasons. Violent crime has locals and tourists alike taking notice. According to crimemappings.com the French Quarter has been a dangerous place to party, citing 13 assaults, 12 armed robberies in and around Bourbon Street during the second week of December. Throughout the month of December 2014, the area within a one-mile radius of Bourbon Street saw 61 Assaults and 36 Robberies! Residents and workers are on alert because of the violent crime increase in the French Quarter. A group of locals are spreading awareness by hanging signs throughout the Quarter that read "Caution Walk in Large Groups - We Love NOPD - We Just Need More." The signs are designed to warn of potential crime and to encourage people to enjoy the Quarter in the safety of a large group. This is excellent advice, as statistics show the likelihood of becoming a violent crime victim is drastically reduced when you’re accompanied by a group of 3 or more. Unfortunately, many residents and workers don’t have the luxury of congregating in groups. A highly effective alternative includes personal protection items like Mace and Pepper spray. When used correctly, these non-lethal devices are proven to stop an aggressive attacker almost immediately. A blast of pepper spray to the face of an assailant goes to work within seconds. First, it causes the capillaries in the eyes to swell – this causes temporary blindness. The threat posed by an attacker who can’t see is greatly reduced. Respiratory inflammation and difficulty breathing help to take the “fight” out of a potential attacker. Mace or pepper spray hurts. The pain to the eyes has been described as “excruciating” and left untreated the effects last about 30 minutes. Self-defense sprays allow users the ability to stop a potential threat quickly and safely from a distance of 8 feet or more.