Stun guns, pepper spray, car keys and even martial arts can be great tools in protecting yourself from potential assailants. However, all of those tools can potentially be turned against you. They also have the potential to cause harm to either yourself or your assailant, and in today’s world, causing harm to a potential assailant can result in unfortunate legal battles.

Another alternative means for self defense is the whistle, but a whistle still requires that you can get the whistle out and blow it loud enough for someone else to hear. A better option is the personal alarm. A personal alarm can be carried on a keychain and emits a sound that is incredibly loud.

If you’re worried about your safety or the safety of a loved one, especially an elderly relative or a child, these personal alarms are an inexpensive, lightweight, and effective means of self defense. If you plan to use one of these devices for self defense, keep these tips in mind:

1) Keep the device accessible. No personal safety device is effective if you can’t get to it when you need it. Attaching the alarm to car keys is a great idea, since you can carry your keys in your hand, and can use those keys as a second line of defense against an assailant. Don’t throw the personal alarm into a desk drawer, the bottom of your backpack, or the center console of your car. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself fumbling for it or unable to reach it when you truly need it.

2) Know how to operate the device. Though personal alarms are designed to be as easy to use as possible, you won’t have time to examine the device when you’re being attacked, so you should take some time now to familiarize yourself with its features. Most of these alarms have one button that emits the alarm when depressed, as well as a safety feature that prevents the alarm from going off accidentally. Know how loud the device is and familiarize yourself with any safety features that may prevent the alarm from going off when you need it. If you know what the alarm sounds like you’ll be ready for the sound when you depress the button.

3) Use the element of surprise to your advantage. The idea of personal alarms is that they will surprise a potential assailant and knock them off their guard, providing you with the element of surprise. A personal alarm is also a great way to alert bystanders to the problem. You may need to catch the attacker off guard in order to reach for the alarm. Once you depress the button, use the time to get away from the assailant. Take advantage of the time to get into your car, run away, or get to a more populated location. If others are around try to get their attention, since bystanders may be encouraged to help you once they hear the alarm.

It’s hard to formulate a plan for every emergency situation, since there are a great number of variables. In addition, the incredible spike in your adrenaline while in emergency situations may prevent you from thinking clearly. For this reason, it is crucial that you know how to use your keychain alarm and keep it handy.

Author Bio: Resist Attack has a full range of TASER devices to keep you and your family safe. Also check our hidden camera specials

Category: Advice
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