Choose from a wide variety of safety defense
tools based on your own personal comfort level and circumstances.
Keep the following in mind when selecting and applying a safety
defense tool:
| |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
| Tactical Flashlight |
multiple uses; visual safety; striking and temporary
blindness |
expensive; may not be close at hand |
| Kubaton |
inflicts great pain; breaks bones |
requires close contact and extensive training / practice |
| Baton |
inflicts pain; creates distance |
heavy and noticeable; need training |
Stun Gun
|
disables attacker for 2 to 3 minutes |
extremely close contact for extended period of time;
may not work if aggressor is wearing heavy clothing; illegal
in certain cities and states; cost |
Taser
|
disables attacker for 2 to 3 minutes |
requires shooting accuracy; may not work if aggressor
is wearing heavy clothing; illegal in certain cities and
states; cost |
Pepper Spray
|
instant effect; works on animals and drug impaired;
no lasting harmful effects |
must be only 3 to 10 feet from aggressor; limited shelf
life; requires training; some states require permits;
illegal in some cities and states |
| Firearm |
stopping power at a greater distance |
extensive training; knowledge of self- defense laws |
| Objects close at hand |
immediately available tool for self-defense; startle
factor |
may not stop an attack |
| Knife |
multiple purpose self-defense or safety |
requires close encounter; extensive training for self-defense
tool |
| Keys |
should be in your hand as you approach house or car |
requires swift and intense use to be effective |
|
Cellular Phone
|
lightweight; small; portable; may be used to alert authorities;
can be a striking tool; needs no electricity or wired
phone line |
false sense of security; distraction; must be charged |
| Physical Training |
your body may be your only tool available |
ongoing commitment to physical training |
| Personal Alarms |
draw attention |
may be ignored; not heard in a remote area |
