Recommendations for protection..........

[Kristin]

Can any of you guys/gals recommend something that a lady can legally carry in her purse for protection or deterrance? Something that would be completely safe, easy to use, and that is legal. Obviously, not a firearm.

I'm kinda new to all of this but I am currently taking an Arabic course that extends into when it gets dark and is not exactly in the safest place. Already I have had some strange guy approach me in the parking lot after class. I ask if I could have someone from campus security walk me to my truck but they said that all they can do is wait by my truck and make sure I get there, not walk me there. The guy smarted off to me and said that campus security is not an escort service. Like that does me a whole lot of good.

So any recommendations would be appreciated!!!!!!!

[TheGreatGonzo]

Kristen,
There are many things that will determine what is "legal". First of all, the state where you reside. Then the city, which may have specific ordinances. Finally, you mention a "campus". Many schools have VERY strict prohibitions on any type of weapons.
Gonzo

[Kristin]

Kristen,
There are many things that will determine what is "legal". First of all, the state where you reside. Then the city, which may have specific ordinances. Finally, you mention a "campus". Many schools have VERY strict prohibitions on any type of weapons.
Gonzo
Geez, Gonzo, Do you have to use the term "weapons"???:) But I ask Campus Security about the policies on this and they said no firearms, ammunition, or sharp objects such as knives, pocket knives, etc. inside the buildings or facilities. Which, that is not what I had in mind anyway.

Back when I was in college I heard some girls say that they carried something that made a really loud noise or something to that effect. I can't exactly remember the conversation but it was something that caused more or less a detterance. This is more like what I was asking for.

[NYLSC]

When in doubt.Bust the OC out! :t- up:

[nsedet]

Kristin,
First consider finding a school that has an actual security program that includes providing security escorts, not just waiting by your vehicle. Or if you are so inclined consider at least complaining to the administration about what might be one of the stupidest security practices I've heard of in a long time.

Also look at taking a female self-defense or rape prevention course, which are offered in most areas by either local police, local martial arts instructors, etc. These courses cover using normal items like keys and such to defend yourself, as well as other strategies that seem to be what you are looking for. There are some good books out there as well that offer strategies on how to increase your safety, or just look for safety tips offered on many police websites. Things like OC, a flashlight, kubaton, noise makers, or even a panic alarm on your car are all options. Keep in mind that security is a process that usually comes down more to having a good strategy to keep yourself out of harm's way than it does to carrying a particular tool to respond once you are in it.

[LittleRock1811]

That reminds me of a DEA agent in Atlanta that turned the tables on a serial rapist. She kicked the S%#$ out of him! Messed with the wrong person.

[DelC]

What Nsedet said, but until you can do those things, remember there is always safety in numbers. So, there must be other students in this class, right? Park where they park and ask some of them to walk to the cars together, even if it's only one other person. Most important; while walking to your car be aware of your surroundings – be good to have your head on a swivel.

[Cascade]

Martial Arts. Find an Art that interests you enough that you will study daily (like any other exercise program). Probably have something on campus. Good luck.

[FightinIrish]

"Back when I was in college I heard some girls say that they carried something that made a really loud noise or something to that effect.", I believe they call those their mouths:) Sorry, couldn't resist.

[bosco]

Which ever tool you go with, remember to learn to use it properly because it can always be turned against you. Like they always say...there's always at least one gun when you go into any encounter. Good luck.

[methos_tj]

I second everyone’s advice especially the safety in numbers bit from Delc. Also park in the most well lit lot even if it's a little ways away (just make sure your walk to and from is just as lit and/or safe).

Getting a little more specific… you could look at a surefire e2d flashlight. A little pricey but it'll blind the crap out of any human and plus the "meat tenderizer" head on the flashlight is sure to leave a mark. Only downfall~ requires the user to get up close and personal. If this is not your style look into OC or mace (again your local laws will apply). If you choose this avenue you may want to seek some assistance/training as this stuff will have a tendency to also affect you after you spray said bad guy/gal. I am not sure what the laws on tazer or personal shock devices are but also an option if applicable. One trick I use (and taught my wife) is putting your largest car key in between your middle and ring finger...and strike wherever your heart desires. A little gruesome to think about but it'll do the trick if you need it. (I teach this a good deal in personal self defense classes) Another trick (this requires you to be aware or "head on a swivel" like DelC said)...act certifiably crazy :D If you're being approached and feel uncomfortable, talk loudly to yourself, bang your head, just act crazy--:banger: ;) :mad: :D . People truly want easy targets so dealing with a crazy will be the last thing on their mind. Hell, even the good guys think hard about dealing with crazies :D

Of course…my disclaimer is this is just my .02 cents use it with your best judgment.:D :D

Methos_tj

[Kristin]

NYLSC, Nsdet, Delc, Cascade, Bosco, and Methos,
Thanks everyone for the advice. I am going to call the police dept. and see if they offer one of those Rape Prevention courses. Never heard of that course before. Strange as it may seem, this is not the first place that I have seen adopt this security practice.

But excuse my ignorance.......what is OC? Kubaton? e2d flashlight?

Nsdet mentioned a noise maker..........where do you purchase something like this? Or any of these things that you guys/gals have mentioned?

FightinIrish,
Too funny!!!:D Only problem is that I have a little voice. Even telemarketers mistake me to be underage when they call. Which is a good thing because it gets me out of listening to them.

[DelC]

..........where do you purchase something like this? Or any of these things that you guys/gals have mentioned? . .
See if they have a police supply store in your area or a spy shop. Either should carry them. Or, do a Google search for an on-line store.

[nsedet]

[B]Nsdet mentioned a noise maker..........where do you purchase something like this?

There's a marriage joke in there, but I'll leave that alone...

OC = pepper spray or mace (not exactly the same thing, but you get the idea...there are different kinds and some are better than others depending on your needs)

kubaton = a little baton about the size of a thick pen that can be carried on your keychain and used for self defense (some models also contain OC spray)

As DelC mentioned you can try a gun store. Also some martial arts stores, as well as places like Target or WalMart depending on what you are looking for and maybe what part of the country you live in.

[LearninginMN]

also TASER international just came out with a civilian taser the size of a dollar bill. You can find them on the web. It's a little spendy but it's an alternative to OC.

[Jedi]

Nobody stepped up and suggested getting a truly devoted boyfriend who will wait outside the door for you to come outside and walk you to your car?

In all seriousness though, I'd suggest some type of self defense and/or rape prevention class. I somehow got roped into being a practice dummy for one of those prevention classes while in college, and let me tell you what--even with the pads on I wouldn't want to have done to me again what they taught.

Bottom line though is to always be aware of your surroundings. Head on a swivel, as somebody already mentioned. If something looks out of place, don't dismiss it. Keep your keys in your hand while you're walking--they make excellent weapons, and you don't need to be fumbling in your purse for 30 seconds before you get into your car. And never walk into a situation that you can't walk back out of again if you need to.

[Kristin]

Thank you everyone for the suggestions and answering my questions.

Jedi,
The boyfriend thing would help wouldn't it?