Self Defense Mechanisms

The following tips and techniques are given in the event someone want to do you harm.

• If someone is following you on the street or in a garage or with you in an elevator or stairwell and if you feel they are suspicious, look them in the face and ask them a question, like what time is it, or make general small talk: “I can’t believe it is so cold out here”, You can ask where they shop ” Now you’ve seen their face and could identify them in a lineup, so you lose appeal as a target.
• If someone is coming toward you, hold out your hands in front of you and yell “Stop” or “Stay back!” Most of the rapists said they’d leave a woman alone if she yelled or showed that she would not be afraid to fight back. Again, they are looking for an EASY target. If you carry pepper spray (We are a a huge advocate of it ) yelling “I HAVE PEPPER SPRAY” and holding it out will be a deterrent.
• If someone grabs you, you can’t beat them with strength but you can by outsmarting them. If they grab your wrist, pull your wrist back so your hand is in waving position (palm facing forward) and twist it toward yourself and pull your arm away. It is hard to hold onto wrist bones that are moving in that way. They stumble toward you and you stumble back, so you can use that momentum to backhand them with your knuckles in the forehead, nose or teeth. If you are grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch the attacker either under the arm between the elbow and armpit or in the upper inner thigh HARD. Try pinching yourself in those places as hard as you can stand it; it hurts.
• If grabbed by a stranger, remember the four most sensitive areas on a man’s body are the eyes, knees, groin, and throat. On a woman, there are three: eyes, throat, and knees.
• After the initial hit, always go for the groin. It is extremely painful if you slap a guy’s testicles (do not be afraid, your life may be at stake!). You might think that you’ll make the potential rapist really mad and make him want to hurt you more, but the rapists who were interviewed reported that they want a woman who will not cause a lot of trouble. Start causing trouble, and he’ll take off.
• If he puts his hands up to grab you, grab his first two fingers and bend them back as far as possible with as much pressure pushing down on them as possible. I saw the instructor do this to another man, without using much pressure, and he ended up on his knees and both knuckles cracked audibly. It works!
• You may also wish to try and grab the windpipe itself to inflict enough damage to escape. Submerse your fingers and thumb into windpipe or larynx area and squeeze as if you were trying to make your fingers meet in a fist. During the squeeze, pull with all your might. This maneuver can be performed effectively even if your hand and upper body strength is not very strong.Of course the advice we always hear still applies. Always be aware of your surroundings, take someone with you if you can and if you see any odd behavior, don’t dismiss it, go with your instincts. You may feel a little silly at the time, but you’d feel much worse if the guy really was trouble.

 Victor Swindell
PepperEyes - Personal Protection Products

Don’t be their next victim

Date-Rape Drugs: Protecting Yourself

What they are and the steps to staying safe from becoming a victim
By PepperEyes.com – Personal Protection Devices

For many years a new kind of rape threat has reared it’s ugly head at bars, on college campuses, at house parties, and in various nightclubs – they can be called “predator” or “date rape” drugs. You may have heard of them, but what exactly are date rape drugs? Strictly speaking, any substance that renders a person incapable of saying no or asserting yourself and your needs can be used to commit the act of sexual rape. This can include items such as like alcohol, marijuana or other street drugs, designer or club drugs like ecstasy, over-the-counter sleeping pills and antihistamines, even cold medications. However, the term “date rape drug” usually applies to the drugs like , Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate (GHB) , Rohypnol, and Ketamine Hydrochloride. Listed below are the various types of “Date Rape Drugs” and how they are used.

Alcohol
When people hear the phrase “date rape drug,” alcohol isn’t usually what comes to mind. But, as these statistics show, the link between alcohol and campus sexual assaults is evident:
90% of all campus rapes occur when alcohol has been used by either the assailant or the victim.
55% of female students and 75% of male students involved in acquaintance rape admit to having been drinking or using drugs when the incident occurred.
As many as 70% of college students admit to having engaged in sexual activity primarily as a result of being under the influence of alcohol, or to having sex they wouldn’t have had if they had been sober.

Understanding the effects of alcohol on your body, limiting your alcohol consumption and avoiding drinking games are some of the ways you can decrease the risk of sexual assault. Know what alcohol can do to you can help in you in the following ways:
1. You can make a more informed decision about whether or not to drink.
2. You can recognize the warning signs of dangerous intoxication and call EMS for a friend.
3. You can reduce the risks associated with using alcohol, including injury, unwanted sex and being a victim of crime.
4. If you choose to drink, you can make safer decisions about drinking.
5. You can get help for yourself or for a friend.

GHB
GHB stands for gamma hydroxybutyrate, a central nervous system sedative often referred to by other names such as “Liquid Ecstasy” or “Grievous Bodily Harm.” GHB can produce drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, unconsciousness, seizures, severe respiratory depression, and coma. Overdose of GHB can occur quickly and can be fatal. GHB is typically an odorless, colorless liquid, with a slightly salty taste. It is classified as a sedative and is in the same drug family as Rohypnol and ketamine.

GHB is used as a general anesthetic in Europe; however, the drug is illegal in the US. It has been used in this country as a date rape drug: it can be slipped into a victim’s drink, causing dizziness, confusion, drowsiness and sometimes loss of consciousness. When GHB is combined with alcohol, it is especially dangerous because the combination of two depressants can lead to overdose.

GHB is generally taken in a liquid form, though it is sometimes found in powder, tablet, or capsules. Since in its liquid form the strength of GHB varies, and people’s reactions to it vary, it is very easy to take a dangerous dose of this drug. The effects of the drug begin 10 to 20 minutes after taking it and last up to 4 hours.

Rohypnol
Rohypnol is a brand name for a powerful sedative that is often referred to as “roofies.” Rohypnol is not legally available for prescription in the US and so just having it in your possession signals intent to commit a crime. Rohypnol may cause users to feel intoxicated; they may have slurred speech, impaired judgment, and difficulty walking. The effects are often felt within 10 minutes and can last up to 8 hours. Rohypnol can cause deep sedation, respiratory distress, and blackouts that can last up to 24 hours. Though it has gained popularity as a recreational drug. Colorless and odorless, it has been linked to numerous incidents of sexual assault because it is a fast-acting sleeping pill that can be slipped into a drink and leave the victim with little or no memory of the incident. The drug has been changed to leave telltale blue floating particles when mixed with liquids. If you see these in your drink, do not drink it. Get help and notify Police and Security immediately.

Ketamine
Ketamine is an injectable anesthetic that is intended for veterinary use. It is also known as Special K, K, Vitamin K or Cat Valiums. At high doses, ketamine can cause delirium, amnesia, impaired motor function, high blood pressure, depression, and potentially fatal respiratory problems. Low-dose intoxication from ketamine results in impaired attention, learning ability, and memory. It is most commonly used by veterinarians on large animals today. In the 1980s it began to be used recreationally as an intoxicant.
Ketamine is either sold as a dry white powder or a clear liquid (in its original pharmaceutical packaging). The powder is made by drying the liquid. The residue from this drying process is then crushed and snorted in small doses (called bumps). In rare cases ketamine is injected intramuscularly or smoked with tobacco or marijuana. Whether smoked or snorted, the effects begin in a few minutes and lasts less than an hour.

Why Rohypnol, GHB and Ketamine are used in Date Rapes:
While many sedatives have been used as date-rape drugs, Rohypnol, GHB and Ketamine are the ones you are most likely to encounter.

They are easy to administer. (Stir and dissolve)
When victims feel the effects, they often leave and are caught alone and vulnerable.
If victims ‘come to’ during an assault, the drugs render them totally helpless and unable to do anything.
GHB – is most often administered to victims as a clear liquid with a salty taste, but can also be found in capsule and powder forms.

Ketamine – Administered in liquid, tablet and powder form, Ketamine is a fast-acting general anesthetic often used by veterinarians.

Rohypnol – Often dropped into beverages in tablet form, Rohypnol is a potent and fast-acting sedative that dissolves rapidly, leaving no detectable taste, color or odor.

When victims are raped, they doubt their experience because of the impaired memory of it.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

PepperEyes.com desires that no one falls prey to a data rate drug and we recommend that you take all precautions to not become their next victim.

Whether you are at a bar, the student union or any public situation, keep yourself and your friends safe by doing these simple things:

• Never leave a drink unattended. NEVER.
• Do not accept a drink from anyone you would not “put your life into their hands.” Remember, any stranger or casual acquaintance could be suspect. Even those people who are mixing or pouring drinks.)
• If you are feeling sick or dizzy while out socially, go to someone you KNOW and TRUST. If there is no person you can talk to about your condition, call someone on the phone. Never leave alone or with a strnager. NEVER. (The intent of date rape drugs is to get you isolated and then to assault you.) If you think you have been drugged and cannot tell or call someone, call 911. A blood sample can be collected and appropriate tests run.
• Remember, alcohol greatly increases the effects of these drugs. The mixture could be lethal.
• Attend parties or bars with a group of friends, arranging beforehand to watch each other’s drinks. If you arrive as a group, leave as a group.
• Watch out for your friends. If a friend shows symptoms of date-rape drug ingestion, seek medical attention immediately.
  Signs to look for include: Dizziness and/or nausea, memory loss, breathing or motion difficulties, and acting disproportionately intoxicated relative to the amount of alcohol consumed.
• To prevent yourself and your friends from becoming victims of date-rape drug, you need to know what you are up against.

Don’t come their next victim

How Long Will My Pepper Spray Last?

Most pepper sprays have an expiration date stamped on the canister, usually 2 to 4 years from the time of manufacture. Although the spray life is indefinite it does start to lose potency over time. Any use of the spray beyond the expiration date is highly unadvisable. We strongly suggest that you to replace your pepper spray long before the expiration date! Pick a date like your even birthdays. That way you are always assured of the potency of the spray. Take your old one to a safe place and target practice with it. Become familiar with how far it will spray, how to unlock it, etc. When practicing with your defensive spray, be aware of air movements and wind patterns and be very careful not to contaminate yourself.

General Recommendations
Some People usually recommend that you change your pepper spray every year or two. However, we have had canisters that lasted for four that have still been potent.
Most Pepper spray containers are designed for a one time use. Think of this , if you HAVE to use your spray, be sure you use ALL OF IT on the attacker. There should not be any holding back…if he continues to approach you should be hosing and hosing him. Force him to come through the fog of the spray in order to get you. Use the spray like a chemical shield which allows you the chance to escape.

The fact that the key chain sized units are a trade off on size vs. capacity, I would definitely consider it a one-time use.

Remember This
1. Treat your spray as a life-saving tool. Every couple of years, spend a few bucks with a friend and replace your canisters.

2. If you have to use your spray, don’t be stingy — continue to spray the guy until your canister is empty. There is little use in trying to save it for another time.

I hope this helps. You might want to visit the PepperEyes.com for your best prices on Personal Protection devices and informational blogs.

Tragedy of an Ohio Home Invasion

Man Arrested in Murder of Ohio Mom
Tuesday January 6, 2009

Police have detained a 22-year-old Columbus, Ohio man in connection with the home invasion robbery and murder of a Dayton woman and the abduction of her 4-year-old son. Charlie W. Myers, who lives near Ohio State University, has been charged with aggravated murder. The 4-year-old was abandoned at an Interstate 70 rest stop and led police to his dead mother.

Myers was one of three people police removed from a University District house in connection with the investigation into the death of Jennifer Nelson. The house was searched after a car stolen from the Nelson home was found at a flea market parking lot in Columbus.
Montgomery County Sheriff Phil Plummer said at a press conference that Myers confessed to being involved in the case, but he would give no details.

Home Invasion Robbery
A Maryland couple found William Nelson, 4, Friday night at a rest stop near Dayton. The boy told them a stranger barged into his home, killed his mother and left him at the rest area. Dead is 29-year-old Jennifer Nelson (pictured), a stay-at-home mom, who was found, shot to death in her Harrison Township home near Dayton. Jennifer Nelson’s car was stolen in December when she and her husband Eddie attended a concert on the Ohio State University campus. That car was found near her home after she was found shot. Her mother’s Oldsmobile was stolen at the time of the robbery. That car was found in Columbus in the Westland Flea Market parking lot. The flea market is located on the west side of Columbus, about nine miles from the McMillen Avenue house where Myers was arrested.

It’s no secret that crime is increasing every year and is invading what once were considered “safe communities.” FBI report shows, crime is on the rise. Criminals are looking for any opportunity you can give them to get what they want it just might cost you your life. Crime against property occurs on the average of 20 times a minute with an estimated $1,000 loss for each occurrence. Burglary is a crime of opportunity where entry is gained due to the carelessness of homeowners. PepperEyes.com – Personal Protection Devices doesn’t want you to become their next victim. There are a few things you can do to make you home more secure to reduce the chance to be the victim of a home break in.

Single family homes are twice as likely to be burglarized as apartments. While receiving a lot of publicity when it happens, hotels and motels account for less than 3% of all burglaries. The most likely things to be stolen in a burglary are cash, small electronic equipment, home computers, cameras, jewelry, furs, tools and hand guns.

GENERAL HOME SECURITY TIPS

• Have you arranged to have member of a law enforcement agency do a professional survey?
• Are all trees and shrubs pruned and well maintained to prevent anyone from hiding unseen?
• Do any trees, down pipes, lattice work provide easy access to upper floors?
• If you have skylights can they be removed from the outside or easily broken?
• Any ladders, tools kept outside assisting any potential intruder?
• Are you guilty of keeping a hidden house key outside the house where it’s sure to be found? Try a Good Key Hider.
• Is your home well lighted with particular attention to exterior doors?
• Can your main entrance be seen from the street?
• Are exterior doors at least 1-3/4 inch thick and made from solid wood or reinforced with metal? Try a Strike Master II or a similar device.
• Do all exterior doors have heavy duty dead bolts and reinforced door jams?
• Can anyone gain easy access through a mail slot, dryer vent, or pet entrance?
• If doors have glass panels can someone break through and defeat the locking mechanism?
• Have all sliding glass doors been protected from being easily lifted out from their frames?
• Are all exterior lights and security devices in good working order and protected from breakage?
• Does the door from the attached garage leading to the house have a dead bolt?
• Does you garage door have an inside lock on the garge door lock?
• Does your overhead door have a working electronic door opener?
• Does your overhead door have any loose, broken or missing door panels or hardware?
• Do you keep the overhead doors closed, and your car locked inside the garage?
• Do all windows have reinforced locking devices that can be secured in the open position?
• Do all screens and storm windows have reinforced locks?
• Do ground level windows have guards or grates?
• Are basement windows glass block or protected by grates or security devices?
• All irreplaceable items kept in high quality fire resistant safe or in off-site safety deposit box?
• Do you do a recently home inventory?
• Do you have a complete and current video tape or pictures of all your valuables off-site?
• Are all firearms kept secured and apart from ammunition?
• If you can’t afford a Security System you can get signs to make the would be criminal think twice. Even the Beware of Dog sign gives them pause.

The Stun Setting

It’s sad but true that nowadays it seems that the criminals have more rights than the victim. You mother, grand mother or sister can do time in prison for protecting herself from a would-be rapist who breaks into her home or apartment and even makes it all the way into her bedroom! She can be sued by the perpetrator if he survives or sued by the perpetrator’s family if he dies. The distressing part is that, in many cases, she will lose and go to the jail or pay compensation for protecting herself or her home

A great number of private citizens are turning to non lethal self defense products as effective interventions that can stop a crime in the making without killing the bad guy. Stun guns, pepper spray, personal Alarms are examples of products for which the private citizen does not need a license to carry, in most states. While restrictions apply in roughly 8 states and several municipalities, as well as airports, schools, hospitals, etc., non lethal self defense products are allowed in most areas in the United States.

Stun guns are effective for several reasons.
1. Stun guns come in a huge range of sizes. They can be a real big surprise to would-be perpetrators. One little model can deliver a million volts of stopping power even though it is a little smaller than a cell phone.

2. Stun guns are now available in an incredibly broad price range. This means that virtually anyone can purchase peace of mind in whatever price point the budget will bear.

3. Another surprise is that some serious stopping power can be had for a very reasonable price. The natural result is that protection is not only a good idea, but it is also doable for the average citizen.

4. Stun guns come in an amazing array of sizes, shapes, and colors! While the vast majority of them are standard issue black, some models are also available in pink, red, silver, animal prints, and even camouflage. That means safety can also be fashionable. There are some that look like lip gloss, some that look like pens, and some that look like cell phones.

5. Choosing a non lethal self defense product tends to alleviate the fear of legal reprisals which are so often the case when firearms are used, even in self defense. The American legal system can no longer be counted on to convict the guilty and protect the victims of violent crime.

What’s the best solution? Don’t be their next victim. Protect yourself to the best of your ability while minimizing the likelihood of harm to yourself, your family, your property, and your financial statement.

PepperEyes.com – Personal Protection Devices
“Don’t be their next victim”