Crime can happen anytime, anywhere, and to anyone.  Just because you don't live in a bad section of town doesn't mean you are safe.  You are at risk of becoming a victim no matter where you live or who you are.  And you can become that victim inside your own home.  That's why thinking ahead and preparing for the worst can save your life.

          The very best prevention against a burglary, home invasion, or attack is a 24 hour home alarm surveillance system, but what if you do have that alarm system and the criminal gets it anyway?  Worst, what if you are at home and you are about to be attacked?  Experts say you should be prepared with some self defense products for the home. 

          First off, guns have become a very controversial line of defense and will not be covered extensively.  I'm going to look more at non-lethal weapons (though now some will argue that the taser gun is lethal.)  When it comes to guns the first question to ask yourself is, “Would I or could I shoot someone in defense of myself or others?”  If the answer is no, then do not buy a gun for self defense, look to other weapons.  If the answer is yes, then you should act within the law to obtain and keep a gun.  Still, even with owning a gun, you need other forms of protection to complete a self defense plan. 

          Tasers 

          A taser is pistol like weapon that utilizes compressed nitrogen to shoot two small probes usually up to 15 feet.  These probes are connected to the weapon by high voltage insulated wire.  When the probe makes contact with the target the taser sends powerful electric pulses along the wires and into the body.  This works with up to two inches of clothing on the target.  Tasers can be costly and usually begin around $300.  Tasers have been know to lead to death.  Some people who have had pre-existing conditions like severe drug abuse, heart disease, or a pacemaker have died when tased.

          Stun Guns

          A stun gun is a direct contact weapon that is great for self defense against a larger attacker.  Many have found that just the threat of being hit with a stun gun is enough to stop an attacker from pursuing further.  If a situation does escalate, the defender should press the prongs of the stun gun up against the attacker sending a high voltage of electricity.  This will shut down an attacker’s muscular system allowing you time to escape or take control.  Although the stun gun quickly immobilizes the attacker, the amperage is very low therefore no serious or permanent injury is inflicted.  There are many different types of stun guns including, stun batons, stun flashlights, stun cell phones, and the double trouble stun gun.

          Pepper Spray

          Pepper spray is a chemical compound that irritates the eyes that causes tears, pain, and even temporary blindness.  You should aim the pepper spray at the attacker's eye and then dodge away so you can avoid any back spray from hitting you.  Milk, sour cream, baking soda paste, or honey are pepper spray antidotes.  Pepper Spray is different than mace, though there is a Mace brand name associated with pepper spray products.  Experts say, most of the time mace has no affect on an attacker under the influence of drugs or alcohol, while pepper spray does.  There are pepper spray lipstick cases, pens, key chains, and rings.

          Personal Security Alarm

           This alarm can be a hand held device that is easily attached to your wrist or key chain.  If attacked you can set off the alarm drawing attention to you and possibly stopping an attack.  You can find many different personal security alarms at many different prices usually beginning at $6.00.   

          Knives

          Whether it's a folder knife or fixed-blade knife, having one can be a good line of defense.  But you better be ready to use a knife, otherwise you may just be giving the attacker a weapon with which he can take away from you and kill you.  Experts say if you can find a school of formal knife combat training then enroll in it before you buy an expensive knife.  It's also a good idea to research your state's laws on knives.  The most important factors in buying a knife are it should be made of tough steel and have a sturdy handle.  There are many hunting and sporting good stores that sell knives, as well as on-line and there are many knives to choose from including machetes, fighter knives, boot knives, and pen knives.

          It is of course a good idea to keep all these weapons in strategic positions throughout the house.  It's also important to educate your children about the various weapon so they can treat the weapons with respect, only using them if forced.