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Pepper spray is one of the most effective and powerful non-lethal forms of self-defense. But is pepper spray legal in NY? What are the regulations surrounding pepper spray and is it safe to use?

Questions like these are extremely important and they're worth answering before you go out and purchase a canister of pepper spray yourself. So continue reading and we'll walk you through what pepper spray, how to use it, and what are its legal restrictions.

What Is Pepper Spray?

Pepper spray is a self-defense tool that can be used to ward off attackers. It's extremely powerful and can debilitate a person for as long as one hour. But how does it work?

The active ingredient in pepper spray capsaicin, which comes from peppers. Capsaicin is extracted from finely ground peppers which have been mixed with ethanol. It's then mixed with water and propylene glycol. 

The solution is then packaged into a spray can and thus gives us pepper spray. 

How Pepper Spray Works

When pepper spray comes into contact with mucus membranes in the mouth, nose, or eyes, it creates a significant amount of pain. The more capsaicin a person is exposed to, the more paint they will feel. 

Once a person is sprayed, distress signals are immediately sent to the brain. The body forces the eyes to shut as it produces large amounts of mucus and tears. This is to protect against more injury and flush out the capsaicin. 

While this is happening, the capsaicin is causing inflammation in the eyes and on the skin. It also causes spasms in the larynx and nerve endings in the throat. This makes it very difficult to talk. 

People have compared the pain to have shards of glass shoot into your eyes. 

What to Do if You Get Pepper Sprayed

The most important rule when you get pepper sprayed is to not touch your face. This will only spread the capsaicin around. You're going to need a sterile solution that contains magnesium hydroxide.

Magnesium hydroxide is able to break down the capsaicin and make it easier to rinse away. Just make sure that there's no menthol in the solution, as this can lead to more pain. 

Is Pepper Spray Legal in NY?

Believe it or not, pepper spray is legal in all 50 states. But it is still regulated. For someone to buy pepper spray in New York, they have to be at least 18 years old.

The purchaser also cannot have a record of assault or felony convictions in any state. You can also only purchase pepper spray from a permitted pharmacist or a licensed firearms dealer. Before completing your purchase, you have to fill out a document that states you don't have any convictions and you're of legal age. 

You're also only allowed to purchase two canisters of pepper spray at a time. 

Instructions

Any canisters of pepper spray that are sold in New York need to come included with directions for correct use. The instructions also need to contain information about storage and safety. Plus, it must have information regarding to first-aid. 

Each canister needs to come with a toll-free phone number that leads you to local self-defense safety and training courses for using pepper spray. And lastly, the canister must state that it's a criminal offense to use pepper in any instance other than self-defense. 

Limits

You're only legally allowed to carry pepper spray on you in New York if it's a pocket-size canister. A canister needs to have a clear label on it that states that the spray can only be used for self-defense. You also need to purchase pepper spray in New York if you intend to carry it in the state. 

If you live in New York, it's illegal to have pepper spray mailed to you from anywhere outside of New York. 

With that said, there are some exceptions to shipping pepper spray. Dog pepper spray, bear pepper spray, and personal alarms are allowed to be shipped into New York from out of state. 

People in wildlife areas, as well as urban ones in New York, have the threat of being attacked by wild animals. By using an animal pepper spray, you can humanely and temporarily stun a wild animal and safely escape the situation.

How to Use Pepper Spray 

If you're faced with an attacker, you want to establish a stable standing position. Present your pepper spray with authority and try to stand around 10 feet away from the attacker. 

Aim for the person's eyes and spray ear to ear, going across the eyes. If you miss the reverse, reverse the movement and do it again. While you spray, you want to move to the side so that you can get out of the line of the attacker. 

Once you see the pepper spray taking effect, you can either drop the spray or take it with you as run away to safety. 

The Importance of Knowing the Legalities of Pepper Spray

Hopefully, after reading the above, you feel that you understand the answer to the question "is pepper spray legal in NY?" By educating yourself more about pepper spray, such as its legality and how it works, you'll be able to use it more safely and effectively. Owning a canister of pepper spray is a great way to feel more confident and protected when walking around the great state of New York.

Are you looking to better protect yourself and your family? Contact us today and see how we can help you!

Many people like to use the terms stun gun and taser interchangeably. However, these are two distinct types of self-defense products and it's worth knowing their differences. 

One of the biggest differences between these two items is range. With a stun gun, you have to be right next to your target. This is opposed to a taser, which can allow more distance. 

Interested in learning more? Continue reading our stun gun vs taser guide and learn everything you need to know!

What Is a Stun Gun

A stun gun is a self-defense device that utilizes high voltage in order to impair a target. When you touch a person with the device's electrical prongs, you will immediately immobilize that person. Due to the stun gun's very low amperage, you won't be inflicting any permanent or serious injury to them. 

A stun gun works by attacking the target's nervous system. It unloads its energy straight to the muscles at a high pulse frequency. This kind of reaction will make a person's muscles work very quickly but not properly. 

In a matter of seconds, the target's blood sugar will be depleted as it is turned into lactic acid. The loss of energy from this will mean that the target will have a very tough time functioning or moving at all. Also during this process, the neurological impulses that are in charge of muscle movement will be interrupted. 

What this all really means is that when your target makes contact with the stun gun's prongs, they will become disoriented and even lose their balance. This should give you a few solid minutes to get safely away from the situation. 

It's important to point out that a stun gun is a direct contact weapon. You need to be holding your stun gun and press it directly against the skin of your target in order for it to be effective. 

How Long Until It Takes Effect?

Experts generally recommend that simply pressing the prongs against your target for half of a second will be enough to startle them. If your attacker appears disoriented, then you should use that opportunity to leave immediately. 

If you hold the stun gun against your attacker for one to two seconds, they will enter a dazed mental state and their muscles will spasm. Hold it against them for more than three seconds and they should lose their balance and become completely disoriented. However, three seconds can feel like a long time during a physical struggle. 

You should only hold the stun gun against your attacker until you feel that you're safe to run away. 

Also, it's worth noting that you will not feel the effects of the stun gun when you use it against your attacker. The effect is localized only to the part where contact is made. So even if your attacker is holding you or you're both standing in water, you won't get stunned. 

What Is a TASER?

Many people don't realize this but TASER is actually a brand. Similar to how you might refer to an adhesive bandage as a Band-Aid. 

As we said earlier, the main difference between a stun gun and a TASER device is the distance you need between you and the attacker. With a stun gun, you need to be right next to your attacker. With a TASER, you can be up to fifteen feet away. 

Why does a TASER allow you to have more distance? A TASER resembles more of an actual gun than a stun gun. It's even barrel-shaped and comes with a trigger. 

When you pull on a TASER's trigger, it will shoot out electric probes. These probes are attached to your device with wires. 

These probes are also extremely powerful. They're designed to be able to break through clothing after making contact. When a TASER's probes make contact with a target, the device then deliver a powerful electric shock to the target. 

The electric shock affects the muscles of your target. This will stop from moving correctly. It's also a very painful feeling, as you might be able to imagine. 

This is going to stop your attacker and bring them crashing to the ground. They're so effective that many police officers use them too. 

Other Differences

Another big difference between stun guns and TASERs are how easy they are to use. Many people find TASERs easier to use because it's comfortable to hold them and they can stay a safe distance from their attacker. 

However, you only get once chance with a TASER. With a stun gun, you can keep trying if you miss the first time. 

There's also the case of legality. TASERs and stun guns aren't legal for all citizens of every state.  

You also have to consider the price. A TASER will almost always be more expensive than a stun gun. But when it comes to your own safety, price is just one of many factors worth considering. 

When It Comes to Stun Gun Vs Taser, Which One Should You Get?

When it comes to the stun gun vs taser debate, there's a lot of different factors to consider. If you don't feel like someone who's going to be able to aim well when you're under pressure, then a stun gun might be the better option. 

But if you don't like the idea of having to get up close and personal with your attacker in order to subdue them, then you may want to go with the taser. 

Are you currently looking for a self-defense weapon to keep you safe? Contact us today and see how we can help you!

The statistics surrounding violence against women are alarming. According to the World Bank, 35% of women have been the victim of physical or sexual assault, and this only accounts for attacks that have been reported.

Our goal, however, is not to inspire fear. Instead, we want to talk about one of the many ways that women can protect themselves against attackers.

There are many tools women can use for protection. An important thing to note is that when you don't know how to use these tools properly, you can cause harm to yourself.

Let's discuss how to use pepper spray. Read on to find out more about this effective method of self-defense.

What is Pepper Spray?

Pepper spray is a combination of inert ingredients and Oleoresin Capsicum (or OC). OC comes from hot cayenne peppers with at least two million Scoville heat units. 

OC works as an inflammatory agent and produces results immediately. The spray must come into contact with a person's mucous membranes in the nose, throat, eyes, or lungs. It can cause temporary blindness and difficulty breathing. 

The effects of pepper spray are not permanent or lethal. There have been reported deaths that were linked to the use of pepper spray. However, the pepper spray in question was both stronger than commercially available products and contained abnormal ingredients, such as alcohol and hydrocarbons. 

How to Use Pepper Spray the Right Way

If you're not careful with pepper spray, you can end up spraying yourself or innocent bystanders. Read on to learn more about the right way to use it.

Get to Know Your Pepper Spray

Pepper spray comes in canisters that often vary from brand to brand. It's important that you make sure you know how to use your pepper spray (and that it isn't defective) before you're in an emergency situation.

First, get used to how the spray feels in your hands. Make sure you know how to remove the safety and practice with it until you never find that you are pointing it at yourself. 

To test your pepper spray, head to a deserted outdoor area on a low-wind day. If there is any wind, make sure you're spraying with the wind and not against it. Point the mouth away from you and hold down the trigger for five seconds.

Take note of how far the stream reaches. This will give you an indication of how close you'll need to be to an attacker in order to spray their face.

Finally, find a place on your person to store the pepper spray that is accessible. Outer jacket pockets or a holster on the hip is best. Placing it in your purse or wearing it as a keychain may inhibit your ability to get to it quickly. 

Proper Posture and Defensive Moves

Practice heightened awareness when you are in vulnerable positions. This includes times when you are out by yourself or in dark, secluded areas. When you are hyper-aware of your surroundings, you are less likely to be caught off guard by an attacker.

If you are approached, get out your pepper spray and remove the safety. At the same time, take a step or two away from your attacker and bend at the knees. Lift both hands in front of your face and avoid extending your arms all the way out in front of you. 

You will want to use your thumb to hold down the trigger of your pepper spray. This gives you a firm grip on the canister and allows you to keep your other hand free in the event that you must punch or shove the attacker. 

Once you have sprayed the attacker, move away from the area. This will give you more distance from any residual spray in the air. It will also confuse your attacker, who is now temporarily blinded but may lunge toward the location where they last saw you standing. 

How to Spray Pepper Spray  

Most pepper sprays release a stream and tend to have the highest range. They are most effective when sprayed across the eyes and nose in a horizontal motion.

Some pepper sprays release a mist. These should be sprayed vertically, from the forehead area to the chin and back again.

Finally, there are some pepper sprays that release foam and have the lowest range. These you will need to spray in a circular motion as the foam directly hits the attacker's face.

When to Use Pepper Spray

The use of pepper spray is regulated by law. Unlawful use of pepper spray can lead to court cases and fines.

The lawful use of pepper spray is in self-defense. For example, if an attacker is threatening harm, wielding a weapon, or is larger or stronger than you, you can use pepper spray to protect yourself. 

The use of pepper spray is considered unlawful when it involves excessive force or is sprayed recklessly in a crowded area, causing harm to innocent bystanders. It is also unlawful to use pepper spray offensively rather than defensively. 

In other words, you may use pepper spray against someone who is clearly trying to cause you harm. While you want to practice hyper-awareness, you do not want to overreact when you are startled by someone who is merely passing by.

Where to Purchase Pepper Spray

Now that you know how to use pepper spray, it's important that you purchase yours from a reputable seller. 

At Women on Guard, we specialize in self-defense tools that are designed to fit legal regulations and increase the security of women across the nation. For more information about our products, contact us today. 

The world is a dangerous place to be a woman. One in three women will experience sexual violence in her life, and one in five will be raped. With those kinds of numbers working against us, we have to be able to defend ourselves.

Having a knife is a great way to help you stay safe without dealing with the lethality and legal issues of a gun. Read on to discover the best disguised knives and other knife styles to help keep you safe.

Brush Knife

If you want to be able to defend yourself without carrying around something as obvious as a giant knife, a brush knife could be a great option for you. Not only is it functional, but it gives you the element of surprise in the event of an attack. And it keeps you from slicing your hand open every time you reach into your purse.

In the case of a brush knife, the blade extends up into the back of the brush. You can use it just like a regular brush and then pull the knife out of the top of the brush in case you have to defend yourself. We offer brushes and combs in a few different colors to suit your style so it blends in.

Pen Knife

A pen knife works on the same basic concept as a brush knife. You have a knife concealed inside an object that you can actually use for regular tasks. You can sign your name with a pen knife and then defend yourself in the parking lot of you have to.

One of the big advantages of using a disguised knife is that you can take it almost anywhere with you. Even in areas where you wouldn’t normally be allowed to have a knife, security guards likely won’t spot that you still have a means of self-defense. The exception, of course, is anywhere with an x-ray; your knife will still show up on those scans.

Folding Knife 

If you want a knife that’s less sneaky, a folding knife can be a great option. These knives work well for usual tasks like cutting open packages or trimming plants. And because they fold into themselves, they’re perfectly safe to keep in a pocket or a purse.

If you’re the outdoorsy sort, you may want to look into getting a military folding knife that comes equipped with a belt clip and paracord. You can get spring-assisted knives that will snap open to make it easier for you to access the blade when you need it. You can also get tactical rescue folding knives designed to help you cut through seatbelts and break windows in case of an emergency.

Hunting Knife

If you’re wanting something a little more intimidating still, a hunting knife is a good option. These knives don’t fold, so you’ll have to get a sheath for it no matter whether you want to put it in your pocket or purse or on your belt. But they’re also much sturdier and dangerous in case of a fight.

If you’re in a fight with a folding knife, there’s a chance it could fold on you, rendering it useless at best and hurting you at worst. A hunting knife won’t budge and is designed to rip through skin, sinew, and muscle. They’re also a good tool to have along with you in case you find yourself in a survival sort of situation.

Butterfly Knife

You may have seen butterfly knives show up in popular media, and it’s easy to see why. The profile of these knives in entrancing, a knife that flips out of a sheath that doubles as a handle. The right person can flip these knives open one-handed without hurting themselves, but we don’t recommend starting with that move. 

Butterfly knives can also be very practical for self-defense. Because their handle folds down to create a sheath, you don’t have to worry about pulling them out of a sheath. But they also don’t fold up, making them a little safer for you to use in a fight.

Rescue Knife

If you’re wanting a knife that can get you out of a variety of bad situations, a rescue knife might be a good choice. These knives are a variation of a folding knife that has a few extra survival-focused tweaks. They’re popular among EMTs, firefighters, police, and other first responders.

Rescue knives flip open with a flick of the finger and have a serrated edge at the base of a curved blade. They can be used to cut away a seatbelt, and the knife has a glass breaking tip on the end of the handle. And, of course, it can be used in a pinch to fight off an attacker.

Throwing Knife

Throwing knives take a lot more skill and dedication to self-defense than the other weapons we’ve mentioned here. You’ll need to spend a lot of time training with these weapons if you want to have a prayer of fighting off an attacker, and they’re no good in close quarters. But use properly, they can help you make sure an attacker never gets close enough to get a hand on you.

Throwing knives are specially weighted to help you hit the target you’re aiming at. They have double-edged blades and no hilt to speak of. If you plan to carry them with you, you’ll need a special sheath since these are simple straight blades.

Get the Best Disguised Knives

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle or lethality of a gun but you still want a way to defend yourself, a knife is a great option. You can take them to a variety of places where guns aren’t allowed, and you can take disguised knives with you almost anywhere. Find the right knife for you and stay safer today.

If you’d like to discover more self-defense tools, check out the rest of our site at Women on Guard. We have everything from stun guns to pepper spray to help you stay safe. Check out what’s new in knives and start defending yourself better today.

As a woman, it's essential to keep yourself on the defense at all times. It's unfortunate, but women are seen as easy targets for many attackers. These attackers believe that a woman won't be able to defend herself or fight back as a man would.

However, that belief is put to rest today. One of the best ways to win in a battle is to use the element of surprise. So, instead of interpreting your gender as a weakness factor, think of it as a hidden weapon of surprise.

Your gender would suggest to attackers that you're easy prey. They don't expect you to fight back or know how to defend yourself, so when you do, it's an element of surprise. Attackers won't expect you to have self defense weapons for women on you. 

It's time to keep yourself safe and keep attackers at bay. Here are 7 self-defense weapons all women should consider purchasing!

1. Pen Knife 

A pen knife is one of the most convenient and best self-defense tools for a woman to own. The pen works well as a functioning pen. You can take it to work with you and use it in your office as you would any other normal pen. 

It's a perfect disguise and when suddenly attacked, you can use it as a weapon. A simple pulling of the pen apart exposes the knife, which is used to defend yourself. Because of the fact that the knife is inside a real pen, it's easy to carry on you. 

You can keep this knife in your purse, clipped on your jacket, and more. The ink for the pen is easily replaceable after running out. You would replace it just like you would any other pen, making it even more convenient. 

2. Lipstick Stun Gun 

A lipstick stun gun won't come with an actual lipstick piece to put on your lips, but it looks exactly like one. No one will even notice that it's a fake lipstick container. The lipstick stun gun can easily be placed inside your purse, pocket, or any other type of bag. 

This stun gun also comes equipped with a flashlight, which comes in handy when you're traveling during the evening hours. The stun gun comes with two different buttons on it, one for the flashlight and one for the stun gun. The stun gun also comes with a power charging cord for recharging the device when needed. 

3. Spike Stun Gun 

If you don't need a lipstick stun gun as a disguise, then consider purchasing a spike stun gun instead. The spike stun gun is just as compact and easy to carry as the lipstick stun gun is. This is the perfect self-defense weapon when put into a close range of your attacker. 

The spike stun gun comes with two spikes at the end of it that you can use to jab your attacker with. Hit your attacker in the eyes or throat with these spikes and trigger the gun. It's small enough to hold in one hand and is triggered when the palm of your hand grabs the handle. 

4. Flashlight Stun Gun

Everyone should keep a flashlight on them at all times. You never know when you might need one in your car or in your purse. The flashlight comes with a handle strap that fits around your wrist, keeping it from falling out of your hands. 

It works just like a normal flashlight would, but when activated, it releases a powerful stun gun. The flashlight also works as a baton, so don't hesitate to take it with you while going for a walk, hike, or other activities. 

5. Pepper Spray 

Pepper is another great self-defense tool to have on you at all times. However, why settle or any average pepper spray? Instead, consider purchasing a pepper spray that comes with an alarm and strobe light as well. 

Having all of these tools built into pepper spray is the best way to increase your chances of getting away from your attacker. It's also super simple to use. When placed in a situation to use your pepper spray, the other features will activate when you activate the pepper spray itself. 

This means your attacker will be greeted with pepper spray, a loud-sounding alarm, and a strobe light. 

6. Stun Gun, Flashlight, Power Bank Combo

Another wonderful combo tool to keep by your side is the stun gun, flashlight, and power bank combo. Power banks are becoming quite popular. This is due to the fact that just about everyone has a mobile phone and other mobile devices that they keep with them at all times. 

A power bank comes in handy when needing a quick charge. Not only will the power bank charge up your cellphone and other mobile devices, but it'll act as a flashlight and stun gun as well. This gives you three useful tools all in one compact device!

7. Keychain Alarms

Keychain alarms are convenient because they come with keyrings, making it easy to attach to your car keys, office keys, and others. The alarm comes with a built-in flashlight as well. 

Aside from keeping attackers away, this tool also acts as a great tool for any emergency. The alarm that sounds is a 130-decibel alarm, which can come in handy for several different situations. 

Purchase Your Own Self Defense Weapons for Women Today!

If you don't own at least one of these self-defense weapons, then it's time to purchase your own self defense weapons for women! As a woman, it's essential that you're always on the lookout for dangerous situations. Carrying these items on you is the best way to keep yourself safe!

Need home security safety tools as well? Click here to browse through our products. 

Over 50% of American women report that they've suffered from physical violence at some point in their life. That's a high number made even higher once you think of all the violence gone unreported over the years.

That's why it's so important for women to learn how to keep themselves safe. While learning self-defense moves is a good start, sometimes we need something more threatening. Something with flexibility in the way it aids you.

Tasers are such a tool. There are many different ways a taser can keep you safe. Sometimes all it takes is pulling out a taser in order to turn a dangerous situation around.

Keep reading to learn more about how these self-defense tools become a great asset in your day-to-day life.

1. Stopping an Incoming Attack

Tasers are best used for those moments where you feel as though you have no other choice. It's a type of weapon and shouldn't be used lightly. Sometimes, however, it's the best defense when nothing else works.

If someone threatens you and you're afraid for your life, pull this out right away. Shoot the attacker with the taser to stop them from coming any closer to you. Then, get away from the area and call the local authorities.

Tasers are a great asset for self-defense because you're able to stop the offender from several feet away. There's no reason to let someone get any closer to you when you're able to stop them without putting yourself in any more danger.

2. Close Range Stun

If you happen to miss while trying to stop an attacker, don't panic. Tasers function as a close-range stun gun as well.

Make solid contact with the end of your taser against the attacker's body. You'll need to maintain that contact for several seconds to get the best effect.

You should always practice using your taser so that you're ready whenever the worst should happen. Accidents still happen, even more so during a panicked moment. Remember that the taser is multifunctional and you'll have a good backup plan to help keep you safe.

3. Warding Off Potential Attacks

Tasers are more than a means to stop an actual attack. They're also a great way to stop attacks from ever happening to begin with.

If someone is following you or making you uncomfortable, let them know you have a taser. That you're armed and ready to protect yourself.

If they persist, visibly display the taser as an extra deterrent. Show them that you're not bluffing. Sometimes all it takes to keep yourself safe is the display of a self-defense tool like this.

Any time you're in an area that feels dangerous, have the taser out and in your hand. It does you no good if it's stashed away in your bag when an emergency happens.

4. Keeping Distance From Any Threats

Tasers are bulkier than stun guns but they're also great for keeping yourself away from dangers. Instead of needing close-range contact with the threat, you're able to defend yourself at a distance.

A civilian's taser reaches up to 15 feet in front of you. While that's not a vast distance, it's still enough to provide ample protection in many situations.

Make sure to practice with your taser in a safe manner until you know the taser in and out. This way, you'll have an instinctual feel for how far it fires.

With a taser in hand, you'll always have the option of staying away from those threats without putting yourself in more danger.

5. Safety At Every Turn

Carry a taser with you everywhere you go. They're portable and small enough to fit in a purse or bag without any trouble at all.

No matter if you're going to work or a club, you'll have the comfort of a taser's help in every single situation. Remember to take it out whenever you feel like you're going to a dangerous place. Even if you feel only a little uncomfortable, take it out.

It's better to have the taser out and ready but never need it, than to have it hidden away when you do need it.

6. Protecting Someone Else

Using tasers for self-defense is the most common application, but sometimes we need to protect someone else as well. Throwing ourselves into a dangerous situation isn't the safest way to help another person. We want to do something, but how to do that without turning the threat onto ourselves?

That's why a taser is a good tool for this kind of situation. You'll keep your distance while still providing help for someone else in their time of need.

Having a taser at your disposal makes all kinds of situations far easier to deal with.

7. Provides Extra Confidence

Despite all of the depressing news stories we all hear about every day, you have no reason to fear. With the help of the right tools and training, you'll feel far safer than ever before. No one wants to live in fear.

Tasers are perfect for gaining confidence. They're easy to carry with you and easy to use. You'll never need to fear going home alone at night because you've got something to help keep you safe.

Tasers are also multifunctional, making them a versatile tool for any occasion. When it comes to self-defense, you need to be ready for anything and everything. Tasers help in that kind of mentality.

You'll know that, no matter what, you're ready to face anything that seeks to do you harm. 

Remember These Vital Ways a Taser Can Keep You Safe

Having a taser available is only the beginning. You'll need to learn how best to use your new self-defense tool as well. Ask professionals for help or find some classes to help make sure your usage is perfect.

The nice thing is that a taser doesn't have a steep learning curve. As long as you keep in mind all the different ways a taser can keep you safe, you'll have no trouble incorporating a taser into your everyday life.

Start feeling safer today with the help of one of our own tasers! Don't wait to have that kind of security with you everywhere you go.

You've worked late but it's finally time to go home. By this time the parking lot is vacant and there isn't a person in sight. You're just trying to make it to your car while your mind is thinking about a warm dinner and going to bed.

Then someone grabs you from behind! What are you going to do?

Have you ever considered taking a self-defense class? You may have thought about it a few times and maybe backed out. But what if one day this scenario happens to you?

You don't want to take any chances when you need to defend yourself. 

Self-defense is a way for you to protect your health and well-being from harm. These classes are becoming more and more popular in today's society for men and women.

Keep reading for seven important reasons why you should take a self-defense class right away and get serious about your safety.

1. Help You Stay Safe

The most obvious reason to take a self-defense class is that it will help you stay safe. But if this is obvious, then why haven't you done it yet?

Taking a self-defense class will help to build your skills in keeping you and others safe. A bad situation that you may find yourself in will be highly stressful and you may not be thinking correctly. With self-defense skills, you won't even have to think at all and these movements will become natural to you. 

You will also start to feel less anxious and nervous about walking alone in public. Learning self-defense can also help you spot possible threats and avoid a bad situation from happening in the first place.

2. New Levels of Physical Fitness

There are many different types of self-defense classes with most of them being based around martial arts such as krav maga, jiujitsu, tae kwon do, or karate. Many people also use a kickboxing style to train you in self-defense. Regardless of which method you choose, you will definitely be getting a workout when you work on improving your skills. 

Training in self-defense is a great way to keep your body physically and mentally healthy. By taking these classes you can tone and strengthen your muscles but also lose weight. Partaking in physical exercises, such as self-defense, will put you in a better mood and help you sleep better at night. 

3. Reduces Stress in Many Ways

Self-defense classes are a great way to keep your stress under control. This is because physical activities help you to be less stressed in general. But these classes can also help you to manage your anxiety in high-stress situations. 

Besides keeping your stress under control with exercise, you will also feel less stressed in dangerous situations. Self-defense classes will teach you how to handle yourself so the answer becomes obvious to you. You will also feel calmer in possibly bad situations by developing better situation awareness. 

4. Gain More Self-Confidence

Confidence isn't the only thing you're going to gain when learning to defend yourself but it does play a major role in why you should look into taking these classes. You may unlock feelings of confidence that you had all along but just needed a little push. 

Just knowing that you can defend yourself and loved ones in any situation and at any time of the day should bring you a lot of self-worth. It is very rare for a person to know how to defend themselves in dangerous situations so you should be proud that you've taken the time and initiative to do so. 

Knowing how to defend yourself gives you the freedom to explore the world in any way possible. Right now you may be limiting yourself and not even realizing it. Taking a self-defense class will unlock many doors to the world that you did not even know existed. 

5. Learn Self-Discipline

Self-discipline might be something you find difficult when it comes to many aspects of your life. But if you want to learn more self-discipline, then taking a self-defense course is the right move for you. 

When taking a self-defense class you need to be motivated and dedicated to the practice. You will also need to make sure to show up to each and every class. These few examples are great ways to teach yourself self-discipline while also learning to defend yourself in any situation. 

Self-defense requires a lot of practice to master. You will need to show self-discipline skills when it comes to mastering defending yourself. This will also help to improve other areas in your life that you need discipline in such as your career.  

6. Become a Leader

Before you even realize it, self-defense classes will be bringing out the leader in you. This skill can be learned with dedication and practice. Not everyone is born a leader, but with what you learn from self-defense classes, you will be a leader in no time. 

On your first day of class, you will learn values like respect, discipline, goal-setting and working hard. In a self-defense class, you will also learn how to accept failure if need be. These are important skills that a leader must possess.  

7. Respect Yourself and Others

The final reason why you should start taking self-defense classes today is that you will learn how to respect yourself and others. Some people become busy and too caught up in their own lives to respect the other people around them. With a self-defense class, you can learn a great value in why you should always respect others. 

As we've talked about, self-defense will teach you many great skills you need to know that isn't just physical. All of these skills lead to treating yourself and others with the respect that they deserve. 

You Should Defend Yourself

Learning to defend yourself will not only teach you the best physical ways to defend yourself but will also help to teach you valuable life skills. In turn, learning self-defense and everything that goes along with it can bring immense satisfaction and happiness to your life. 

Now that you've read the seven reasons on why you should take a self-defense class, check out Women On Guard for more information as well as products you can purchase that will help you with self-defense. 

The rate of assault in the United States is frighteningly high.

For example, someone is sexually assaulted in this country every 92 seconds!

Of course, assaults come in different forms and severities. Regardless, they’re inevitably traumatic for the victim. Even worse, they frequently have significant negative implications long after the event itself.

Unfortunately, you never know when an assault is going to happen.

However, it’s possible to take preventative steps beforehand. Learning simple self-defense techniques, for example, can help you handle the situation, and avoid more serious harm, if and when something happens. They can increase self-confidence and may well avert any attempted assaults.

Sound worthwhile?

Keep reading to discover 5 top self-defense moves that every woman should know how to do.

1. Go for the Groin

Everyone knows how sensitive the groin area is for guys.

That’s why targeting the groin is often a go-to recommendation against would-be attackers.

Sometimes, a swift, sharp kick to this region can be enough to incapacitate them. It may buy you enough time to make your escape and get to safety.

Chances are you don’t need to be taught how to kick! However, a few pointers on your form can make a difference. After all, you want to generate enough force to debilitate the attacker. This isn’t the time for a miskick.

Start in a stable position. From there, lift your strong ‘kicking’ leg from the ground and drive it up and forwards towards the groin of your attacker. Next, extend your lower leg outwards (effectively straightening it) while driving your hip forward to generate power. Leaning backward slightly will help produce extra power.

In close quarters, simply drive upwards with your knee.

2. Go for the Ears

The ears are another sensitive area of any person’s head/face.

Any sharp, forceful contact with them can cause significant injury and/or pain.

One ear-related option at your disposal is exceptionally simple. All that’s required is hitting the attacker’s ears with an open palm. Imagine holding a pair of cymbals, and clashing them together with the attacker’s head in the middle.

Of course, you almost definitely won’t have the cymbals with you! However, you can have a similar effect with just your palms. Having your ears struck in this way can be incredibly disorientating.

Be sure to slap firmly and sharply to cause maximum pain. Remember, you’re trying to escape harm. This isn’t the time to go easy on someone. Hit hard and move away fast.

3. Face Strike with Palm

The palm of your hand can be a great weapon at your disposal.

Specifically, the bottom section (otherwise referred to as the ‘heel’) of your hand can help thwart attackers’ attempts. Striking someone with the heel of your palm will hurt. That’s especially true if you’re able to target the most vulnerable parts of their facial anatomy.

Your form will be important. Expose the heel by flexing your hand backward (imagine pushing a large flat item upwards). Keep your fingers slightly bent. Your dominant/strong hand will deliver the most force.

Simply punch your arm outwards and upwards (keeping your hand flexed) and connect with the attacker.

Aim for their nose or throat. Drive the heel into their nostrils or under their chin. Driving upwards and swiftly bring your hand back into a starting position will cause maximum impact.

4. Use Your Elbows

Your elbows are some of the hardest parts of your body.

They can also be maneuvered at high speed.

That makes them prime weapons in your self-defense arsenal. You should aim to use them when you’re at close quarters with a potential attacker.

Imagine they’re in close proximity and facing towards you. Have your hands up at face height, with arms bent and tucked into your side. Keep your strongest arm bent, shift your weight towards the attacker and strike them with your elbow as hard as you can.

Always aim for their facial area. The nose, chin, temple, neck, and jaw are specific areas to strike.

What if the attacker approaches from behind? Get yourself into the same starting position as before. This time, though, you’re obviously facing away from them. Next, lift your strong arm (bent at the elbow) to shoulder height, swivel backward 180 degrees towards the attacker, and strike (as best you can) in their face.

5. Rear Hug Escape

Imagine an attacker approaching from behind and clasping their arms around your shoulders.

Picture a ‘hug’ from behind.

This is obviously a troubling situation to find yourself in (these tips on situational awareness can prevent it from happening). There’s a danger that they might raise their arms and begin choking you. Try to respond as quickly as possible to stop that from happening.

Your instinctive reaction is likely to have raised your hands to their arms. Start your escape by shifting your hips to one side. This exposes their groin. Bring your hand down and strike it with an open hand. Remember, strike hard.

Next up, you want to turn into the attacker. Do that by raising your opposite elbow to the one you struck them with. Bring the elbow up (lifting their arm from your shoulders), turn inwards, and move away from them.

This is an aggressive move to be performed rapidly. As you extract yourself from their hold, strike them with your knee, palms, and elbows, etc, to ensure your escape.

Time to Master These Self Defense Moves

There you have it: 5 top self-defense moves that every woman should know how to perform.

Unfortunately, assaults (including sexual assault) are all too common in the US. Women, in particular, are often subject to them. The assault itself can be traumatic enough. The troubling aftereffects can add insult to the injury.

Having a set of practiced self-defense techniques can be a useful tool to call upon in these situations. They may make all the difference when trying to evade and fight off an attacker.

Hopefully, this post has provided a selection of moves to start your self-defense journey.

Are you looking for additional ways to protect yourself from harm? Check out our Personal Safety section now to browse the items that can help.

Women as young as 12 years old are part of a growing number of women who are victims of assault. That number exceeds over half a million.

The threat of assault is terrifying. Many women walking alone suffer in fear, as they cling to their belongings and frantically glance over their shoulder. 

Thankfully there are a variety of ways to practice self-defense. One of the most popular ways is carrying pepper spray. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of pepper spray.

What is Pepper Spray?

It's common in movies to see women grabbing pepper spray and spraying it in their attacker's face, rendering the attacker hunched over, clutching his reddening face, and staggering to the ground, helpless. 

Pepper spray is also known as oleoresin capsicum, an oil that produces tears when sprayed in the face. The element responsible for the heat, pain, and momentary blindness is the capsicum, which is a chemical commonly found in peppers.

Members of the police force also carry pepper spray to ward off dangerous criminals if they do not cooperate. 

Is Pepper Spray Different From Mace?

It's possible that you've heard of pepper spray and mace. While the two are similar, the names are not interchangeable. 

Pepper spray delivers a powerful inflammatory spray that irritates the eyes by dilating capillaries. Chemical mace is also a spray but works more like tear gas, and does not produce the same results as pepper spray. Mace and pepper spray are two separate formulas and products. 

Results of Being Sprayed With Pepper Spray

Being sprayed with pepper spray is no picnic for the victim. Because the spray is highly concentrated with capsicum, the person may experience:

• Pain in the eyes
• Excessive watering of the eyes
• Reddening of the skin around the eyes
• Trouble breathing
• Coughing
• Unable to speak

These symptoms can last anywhere from 30 minutes or longer. In rare cases, pepper spray can also cause symptoms that could lead to a heart attack or stroke in some people. 

7 Reasons to Keep Pepper Spray Handy

As you can see, pepper spray can be an invaluable self-defense tool for women. Here are seven reasons why you should keep pepper spray with you.

1. Use it on Multiple Attackers

Sometimes women will be attacked by more than one person. Using a pepper spray allows you to fight back against all of them at once. Cone and fog pepper sprays are designed to spray at a wide range, some even spraying up to 20 feet.

2. Economical

Some self-defense tools might be hard to come by, and require training or a license to carry them, but not pepper spray. 

Pepper spray is an affordable and accessible option for the woman who wants to feel protected without carrying a lethal weapon. Most pepper sprays will run around or under $15. 

3. Easy to Carry

When you're carrying a self-defense tool, you want to make sure it's light to carry so you can grab it when you need it. Pepper spray fits the bill!

Most cans are small enough to carry in a bag or in your purse. However, you don't want to be rummaging around for it before it's too late. Before you head out alone, slip the pepper spray under your sleeve, so you're prepared if need be. 

There's a variety of ways pepper spray is concealed, and some even come with alarms for extra protection, clips, or as a key ring to make it easy to grab and use.

4. It's Legal (Mostly)

Pepper spray is legal to purchase and carry in most states. But every state will have its stipulations and limitations. Check with your state's law and make sure you abide by them to avoid any trouble. 

5. No Permanent Damage

Pepper spray is considered nonlethal, though that doesn't dimish its painful effects! Even though the victim may suffer tremendously, after the 30 minutes or more, the results have subsided with no permanent damage. 

As mentioned before, in rare cases, pepper spray can cause one to have complications. For example, people with asthma will have more trouble breathing and recovering than the average person. 

6. Easy to Use

Because pepper spray is light and doesn't require weeks of training, it's simple to use. Using pepper spray requires very little training. Just point and spray, and in some cases merely spraying it into the air is enough to cause a reaction.

7. It Could Save Your Life

As much as women try to stay together as a group for protection, sometimes it's just not possible. A small can of pepper spray could save your life if you become a target of attack. It truly can offer you peace of mind. 

Where to Buy Pepper Spray?

Many online and brick-and-mortar stores sell pepper spray, so it's easy to come by. When you're shopping for spray, make sure you decide on what size you'd like (consider where you're going to store it, in or on your bag), type of stream, and how easy it is for you to use.

Also, be thinking about how you're going to use it. Is it for when you're out jogging alone or leaving work late at night? This will determine the size and type that will work best for you. 

Protect Yourself With Pepper Spray!

Pepper spray is an excellent choice as a self-defense tool. It's easy to carry and use, rendering the assailant powerless so that any woman can feel protected and powerful. 

Are you thinking about using pepper spray for self-defense? We have a complete line to choose from, so you're bound to find something you love. Check out our page today! 

Prevention Comes First

Prevention comes first when it comes down to self-defense for the elderly. Actually this is true for everyone. It's hard to avoid your regular places where you spend time, but sometimes you have to. If you're getting bullied or picked on it's clear you are spending time in the wrong places that you should definitely avoid. Pick your stuff up, domino's, checkers, chess game, friends, and move to a different location.

Protecting Yourself

Most attackers search for the most vulnerable individuals to go after. Usually, this is the elderly in our society who may not know any kind of self- defense. You could be getting picked on by someone younger and stronger than you. You have to find something to protect yourself with and show them. Using a weapon is the best way to do that. The best and most popular 1st choice weapon is pepper spray. Pepper spray or Mace is ideal for an elderly person with no prior training of physically defending themselves.

Psychological & Preventative

There is a distinction between men and women when it comes to attacks or threats. A man may attack a woman differently than a man. Regardless, you have to know how to recognize and avoid dangerous people and places. Maintain your distance from people in public you don't know. Self-Defense for the Elderly is important in our society and must be addressed.

Self-Defense for Everyone

Again, awareness and prevention is first and the key to a happy healthy life. Always be aware of your surroundings. Even is you have traveled that road before or all the time. You just never know when someone may be around that has bad intentions towards you or anyone else. The best self-defense including awareness and prevention is to carry pepper spray. It's the #1 choice of self-defense. If you want to go further, you could invest in a stun gun. They are easy to work and come in all sizes and strengths. Be safe!