I had the opportunity of recently receiving SafeGuard Body Armor’s Stealth Vest for review. Based on the fact that the vest I would be reviewing was both ballistic and edged blade protection, I expected something that was a little on the bulky side. This was not the case. My initial impression of the Stealth Body Armor could be summarized as,
An awesome piece of equipment that combines the technologies of ballistic armor with stab protection into one lightweight and comfortable to wear set of body armor.
My experience with body armor is extensive and I have had the opportunity to wear several different models from multiple manufacturers. The Stealth armor exceeded my expectations in every aspect. Some of the notable features of SafeGuard’s Stealth body armor include:
- 100% DuPont Kevlar armor panels.
- CoolMAX outer vest carrier.
- Light weight, just over 5 lbs. (depending on size).
- All SafeGuard Armor comes with a 5 year warranty.
The vest I was sent offers NIJ ballistic level II and HOSDB edged blade protection level 1 with a retail price of $476. So what kind of protection do you get for your money?
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) defines level II protection as:
Type II (9 mm; .357 Magnum)Type II armor that is new and unworn shall be tested with 9 mm FMJ RN bullets with a specified mass of 8.0 g (124 gr) and a velocity of 398 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (1305 ft/s ± 30 ft/s) and with .357 Magnum Jacketed Soft Point (JSP) bullets with a specified mass of 10.2 g (158 gr) and a velocity of 436 m/s ± 9.1 m/ s (1430 ft/s ± 30 ft/s).Type II armor that has been conditioned shall be tested with 9 mm FMJ RN bullets with aspecified mass of 8.0 g (124 gr) and a velocity of 379 m/s ±9.1 m/s (1245 ft/s ± 30 ft/s) and with .357 Magnum JSP bullets with a specified mass of 10.2 g (158 gr) and a velocity of 408 m/s ±9.1 m/s (1340 ft/s ± 30 ft/s).
The edged blade protection standard used by SafeGuard is the Home Office Scientific Development Branch (HOSDB) of the United Kingdom also known as the Center for Applied Science and Technology (CAST). They are considered the leading global authority on testing methods of stab and spike protection for body armor.
Level 1 edged blade protection is defined as:
An E1 Strike Energy of 24 Joules +/- 0.50 or 17.7 FT/LBF +/- 0.36 and an E2 Strike Energy of 36 Joules +/- 0.60 or 26.6 FT/LBF +/- 0.44
So what does this mean?
There are two required levels of testing for stab protection. The first level (E1) is equal to a maximum allowable edged blade penetration of 7mm or 0.28 inches. The E1 level is limited to 7mm or 0.28 inches as a result of research that indicates penetration to the body by edged blades at this depth is unlikely to result in internal injuries to the body’s organs. The second level (E2) is equal to a 50% increase over the energy exerted for the first level. The E2 level is limited to a maximum allowable edged blade penetration of 20mm or 0.79 inches.
SafeGuard Stealth concealable body armor is incredibly comfortable. I followed the easy to use sizing guidelines outlined on SafeGuard’s website and the result was a great fitting vest with little fuss. Following the sizing guide also resulted in a vest that fit well while sitting, standing, driving, and did not interfere with carrying a pistol both concealed and while being openly carried. A major benefit that the SafeGuard armor offers over many other designs is the one piece, t-shirt style collar versus the typical velcro attachment shoulder pieces that tend to either fold up on themselves, dig into the shoulders, or sometimes both.
A note on concealable body armor…it is only as concealable as the accompanying articles of clothing allow it to be. The wearer might need a larger size shirt or overgarment in order to maintain the concealability of body armor. This helps maintain the single greatest advantage of having concealable armor, no one knows you are wearing it!
I will say that the Stealth armor is very effective in terms of protection and comfort regarding concealable armor. However, I was disappointed to see that the Stealth does not have the option of inserting a trauma plate. If this set of armor were to be used for undercover work or the user was in a position where they would be relying on the Stealth to protect them against multiple rounds or maybe rifle rounds, you could end up on the short end of the stick. That point aside, if I were looking for a set of concealable body armor, the Stealth by SafeGuard Armor would be on the top of my list.
*Ensure that you take all local, state, and federal laws into account if you are considering the purchase of body armor for personal or professional use.
**For more information about NIJ ballistic protection standards see the Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor (NIJ Standard-0101.06)
I wholeheartedly believe that history does repeat itself. The only way to prevent this is to alter the course of current events. As it was once said…
If you have doubts, consider this account as it appeared on the Facebook page of ReadyAim Bid.com:
For anyone who doesn’t think that their guns will be next, and that it’s okay for those evil, black “assault rifles” and “95 round clips” that just inflict maximum damage and are designed solely for killing to be banned, here’s a story for you. After World War II, a writer came up to an educated German priest who had spent the end of the war in a death camp but managed to survive, “How could your people have let this happen”?
The man said, “When they came around in 1934 and rounded up the guns and radios with short-wave capability to get international broadcasts, I didn’t complain–I had neither. When they came around in 1936 and rounded up the Jews, I didn’t complain, we’d all been told the Jews were the cause of economic collapse after the first war. When they came around and gathered up the handicapped, Jesuits, homosexuals and intellectuals in 1940, I even agreed with much of what they said. After they banned the Catholic church in 1941 it started to hit close to home. Finally when they came around for me in 1944 it was too late”.
Any of you who have a gun of ANY kind and you want to keep it: if you don’t stand up for people with “assault rifles”, just like in Britain now, there will come a day when you have to get your weapon checked out from the police station on certain days. As the minutemen said, “If we don’t hang together, we all hang separately”.
I do not know if this is true or not. But even if it is just a story, there is a lesson to be learned here.
Will you be a part of the change? Or will you wait until they come for you or your guns?
Just a heads up to anyone that is looking for an AR15 platform rifle in 5.56mm NATO. There is a DPMS Oracle for sale (NEW) over at RAM Armory. This is an optics ready AR15 for only $799.99!
Direct link is - http://www.ramarmory.com/DPMS-Oracle-AR-15-5-56-223-16-p/dprfa3-oc.htm
Have you ever wondered how you might be able to extend the capabilities of your security system? Or if there was a good solution for safeguarding a piece of equipment without incurring obscene costs? The solution is here and it costs less than 30 bucks!
.22 Caliber Mini-Sentry Trip Wire Alarm
Effective 24/7 Security for Preppers and Survivalists
The Mini-Sentry trip wire alarm can be used to protect large areas or individual items. It can be used on pastures, fences, roads, gates, vehicles, equipment, tools, supplies and more. A distinct advantage to a trip wire alarm with the loud crack of a gun shot is the trespasser or thief knows that you are aware of their presence and location, and that you are serious about security.
The Mini-Sentry is tiny, easily concealed, uses a loud, readily available, inexpensive .22 caliber blank, is constructed of machined brass, galvanized and stainless steel and is coated in a flat black finish.
The Mini Sentry can be installed temporarily with a zip tie, string, tape or wire, and more permanently with screws For additional information on protecting your loved ones and property, go to: http://minisentryalarm.wordpress.com
Check out a YouTube video demonstration of the Mini-Sentry:
NOTE: The author in no way was/is being compensated for this article. I just believe this is an awesome and highly effective piece of equipment!
Looking back at 2012 makes me realize that it was quite a great year. While there are always some things that I wish I would have accomplished, I don’t have any complaints (in my personal life). For the country, not everything was a success…the elections I would not consider the highlight of the American dream last year. The United States Olympic team did a great job in London, even though they were forced to wear uniforms that were manufactured in China. I guess the point is that you can’t win at everything. With many thanks to all of the great readers out there, The Prepared Ninja enjoyed quite a successful year as well. Here is the top five posts that TPN had to offer in 2012:
1. 21 Things A Burglar Won’t Tell You - The economic and employment situation in America these days is, well…less than ideal. This is making life increasingly difficult for a growing number of individuals and families as the months tick by every year. To combat their money problems, many have taken the approach of doing whatever it takes from working odd jobs to going on government social programs and some have even gone as far as becoming criminals to make ends meet. This new breed of criminals is in addition to your other run of the mill burglars and crackheads that are out there breaking into houses. The following things you should know in order to protect your home but you won’t ever hear them from them from a burglar.
2. Do You Own Forever Foods? - I recently came across an interesting tidbit on the Mother Nature Network about forever foods which I found to be quite intriguing. The premise of forever foods is that certain foods as long as they are properly stored, can literally last for decades. Even after they have been opened! While they might not literally be foods that last forever, they are likely to last far longer than the average person would ever feel comfortable using them. Like all foods, normal storage practices such as placing items in a cool dark place and in air tight containers should be utilized.
3. “Roughing It”…Overcoming Toilet Paper Shortages - A lesser focused on area of preparing for the end of the world/the apocalypse/zombie invasion often involve things that we as Americans take for granted such as having toilet paper to clean up after…ourselves. There are essentially two options, stock up on so much toilet paper that you never run out or come up with the best possible substitutes. This post will serve to highlight some of the best possible substitutes for T.P. that I was able to identify.
4. 11 More Things A Burglar Will Never Tell You - I was so inspired by the post, 21 Things A Burglar Will Never Tell You, that I decided to come up with 11 more things that a burglar would not like for you to know. There is not a source for these ten items other than my mind and the recollection of certain items from previous training and lessons learned. Hopefully they will prove useful, thought-provoking, and perhaps even a little entertaining.
5. North America’s Top Ten Wild Edibles - Whether it all hits the fan some day or not, food is an everyday necessity. Ideally, as preppers, most of us will be adequately prepared if there is a tough time. Factually speaking though, even if you are prepared with a decent amount of food stores, wild edibles can stretch the amount of time that your stored food will last while also adding fresh vitamins/supplements to your meals. If for some reason you, your loved ones or friends are not prepared with appropriate stores of food, wild edibles may be a primary source of food for you during a food shortage. This makes finding, properly identifying, knowing which parts are edible, and how to prepare wild edible plants a must for anyone who plans on surviving in good times and bad.
Thank you all for taking the time to read the best of 2012 and making last year an outstanding one for The Prepared Ninja!
By Kevin Raposo of SimpliSafe Home Security Systems
Ever wonder what happens to a home burglary victim’s valuables? We all know that burglars aren’t burglarizing homes to furnish their own home. They’re looking to cash in on their new found booty, but how are they turning your valuables into cold hard cash? We previously had the chance to sit down with a real-life burglar who gave us the lowdown on some inside trade secrets and how to ultimately improve your home security. We thought it would be a good idea to bring him back for another Inside The Mind of A Burglar series, and he’s agreed to give us some more information on what happens to your valuables after a burglary.
Hi, it’s Bob again, your local neighborhood burglar!
Sorry for the hiatus, the summer months are my busiest!. You wouldn’t believe the season I’ve had!
When SimpliSafe asked me back for information for this upcoming article, I thought to myself: “Sure, why not? My last article didn’t seem to be bad for business.” So here’s a little insight into what happens to your stuff after a burglar strikes!
Here’s what happens to your valuables after the burglary:
There is one simple reason I’m breaking into your home: to turn your valuables into cash. I mean, I’m not doing this for my health. This is my living and something needs to pay the bills.
So, you’re wondering where a burglar takes your stuff to convert it into cash. There are a couple of options out there, but we’ll start with the obvious:
The Pawn Shop
Usually one of my first stops after successfully breaking into someone’s home is the pawnshop. I will never go to a pawnshop in the same city of the home I broke into. The last thing I need is someone looking around their city’s pawnshops for the stuff I stole from their house.
Depending where I am, I have good connections with a few shop owners. They know the type of stuff I’m bringing in is not legit. Pawn shops are not the same as they used to be. Back in the day, you could walk into pawn shop, hawk your items, collect your money with no questions asked. Nowadays, you need an ID with every sale. Fortunately for me, I’ve found a way around this: a fake ID.
Some of the stolen items I take into a pawn shop are jewelry, electronics, collectibles, musical instruments, and tools.
Craigslist & Ebay
This can be a valuable resource for me at times. Sometimes, I run into items that I’m unable to sell at a pawn shop, so I take to the internet. There’s always a buyer in cyberspace. The best thing about this is that I never have to provide an ID, and the owner of the item never runs into it at a pawn shop. It’s essentially one of the safest and best options out there. It’s worked for me countless times!
Fencing Operation
This one is rarely known to regular folks like you. A fence is someone who knowingly buys stolen property to later resale. Some of the most common fencing operations you see out there are pawn dealers, mom-and-pop shops, and organized crime groups.
Here’s how it works: They give me a grocery list of items they need, I got out and burglarize homes until I have everything checked off their list. I go back with the items they have requested and they pay me. It’s as simple as that. They demand, I supply. The reason why I prefer dealing with a fencing operation is largely due to the fact that I know what items are hot and what I’ll get top dollar for. This eliminates me wasting my time driving around to pawn shops, or posting items online for sale. The fence does all middleman work for me.
Drug Dealers
There are some burglars out there who give us “professionals” a bad name. I’m talking about the thieves who steal to support their drug habit. These guys aren’t very good at what they do, but hey, they do get the job done, most of the time.
These guys have it somewhat easier or harder depending on how you look at it. The drug-seeking burglar is looking to convert your valuables into cash so they can score a high. Sometimes, they don’t even have to find a way to get cash out of an item. They’ll simply barter or trade with their drug dealer for the drugs they need. The dealer in turn uses his large organized crime network to turn the goods into cash.
Bob’s Final Thoughts
So there you have it, that’s what happens to your stuff if your home is ever burglarized. Tons of people are looking to profit from burglary, and that’s not even including me. A lot of people buy stolen goods without even know they are doing it, and many don’t even really try to find out, which just makes my job easier.
There is a wealth of information about home security that is available from Kevin and SimpliSafe Home Security. Make sure that you follow the link to SimpliSafe and get smart on solutions to keep you and your loved ones safe at home!
This article was reprinted with permission from SimpliSafe Home Security Systems.
Safety is a constant concern for almost everyone, especially with the current state of the world. There are places though where most people feel more comfortable. Being at home or at a loved ones house for example. It seems safe to say that a good percentage of people feel most vulnerable while they are traveling or in a foreign environment (which usually goes hand in hand with traveling). I am no different myself and have as a result of this insecurity, developed some practices that have served me well to ensure my safety as I travel. These practices have come from instinct, experience, my military training, and others from personal research that I have conducted. They have been compiled neatly into a checklist so that hopefully they can be of help to you all as well.
Prior To Traveling:
- Clean out your wallet. Remove any items not needed for travel and those that could be used for identity fraud.
- Ensure that you have the correct directions and check local road conditions if driving.
- Double check reservation information if flying, going by train, or other travel means.
- Check the weather at all locations where you will be traveling for the duration of your travel to ensure that you have all of the appropriate clothing that you will need.
- Leave a copy of your itinerary at home. Include your travel arrangements and hotels where you will be staying.
- Check your person and carry-on bag for anything that might be construed as a weapon. For an updated list of prohibited items see www.tsa.dot.gov.
- Have a current emergency contact form left with your supervisor if the travel is work related.
- Arrange to make regularly scheduled check-in calls at home and at work as appropriate.
- Make sure your passport is current and not too close to the expiration date.
- If you are going overseas: Photocopy the contents of your wallet, passport and visa. Include passport-sized photos of yourself in case you need to have it replaced. Make a list of the overseas contact numbers for your credit card company. Make a list of all embassies. Keep copies in your carry-on bag and in your checked luggage.
- Make sure your medical coverage is effective in all areas that you will travel to including overseas. Bring all prescription medication in original containers. Bring copies of any prescriptions you need, this includes glasses or contacts.
General Recommendations:
- Keep a low profile. Dress and behave conservatively.
- Do not wear clothing with American logos.
- Keep $30-50 and one credit card in your wallet or purse when traveling. Store the balance of your credit cards, traveler checks, and cash in a money belt or similar item worn under your clothes.
- Clothing that exhibits expensive labels or brand markings has the potential to make you the target of an assault or robbery.
- If you have military or distinctive identification that could make you a target do not carry it in your wallet.
- Lock all luggage. Do not place anything on your luggage identifying your nationality.
- Vary regular travel routes by changing travel times or using different roads.
- Avoid areas where you are likely to be victimized. These include crowded mass transit stations, tourist attractions, market places, festivals and marginal areas of cities or towns.
- Don’t use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly lit streets. Try not to travel alone at night.
- Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.
- Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers. If it can be avoided, don’t discuss such matters in public either.
- Beware of strangers who approach you, offering bargains or to be your guide.
- Move with purposeful strides. If you are lost, act as if you know where you are going. When possible, ask directions only from individuals in authority. Generally, families or women with children are the safest persons to ask for directions.
- Know how to use local pay telephones and have change to do so. Consider cell phone service that works in the country you are traveling in. Obtain local /international calling cards.
- Learn enough of the local language so you can communicate your need for help, the police, or a doctor. Carry a list of emergency telephone numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
- If you are confronted, don’t fight back. Give up your valuables. Fight only as a last resort.
- In nightclubs and restaurants locate the functional emergency exits before any emergency.
Airline Travel Safety:
- Select an airline with a good safety record. Your travel agent will have this information.
- Try to schedule direct flights.
- Wide-bodied aircraft typically are the preferred airframe to travel on.
- Arrive at the airport early enough to clear security, at least 3 hours prior to flight time for international flights and 2 hours prior to departure for domestic flights.
- Verify that ticket or gate agents have taken the correct coupons of any paper tickets and returned all coupons that you will need for later flights.
- Verify you have received a baggage tag for each piece of checked luggage and that the tag matches your destination.
- Keep your passport and any paper airline ticket in a zippered pouch of your carry on bag. Always return them to the same place.
- Clear the check-in area as quickly as possible and move into the secure part of the terminal.
- Report any suspicious activity to airport security or flight attendants immediately.
- Watch your belongings as they go through the X-ray screening machine. Make sure you watch the bags as they enter the machine and then pass through the metal detector in time to pick up your bag as it clears the machine. If the person in front of you stops or fails the screening test, do not allow your belongings to go through until the path to retrieve them on the other side is clear. Most laptops and purses are stolen at security by teams of thieves.
- Place carry-on bags in overhead storage across the aisle from your seat so you can see if anyone is trying to open them during the flight.
- To speed response time in the event of emergency and to avoid the possibility of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) use of sleep aids and alcohol should be avoided.
- Traveling in natural fiber clothing is more comfortable for some and tends to be more fire resistant.
- Upon arrival use hotel provided transportation where possible. If you take a cab, select your own taxicabs at random. Don’t take a vehicle that is not clearly identified as a taxi. Compare the face of the driver with the one posted on his or her license. Once seated in the cab insure doors are locked, position yourself so you can see the drivers eyes in the rearview mirror should they fall asleep while driving.
- If you are being met at an airport make sure the placard used displays a number of your selection and not your name. When asked, the person holding the number sign must be able to tell you your name. Kidnappers copy names on signs and stand closer to the entrance than legitimate drivers.
Hotel Safety:
- Stay at reputable hotels and motels. The large, western Hotel chains usually have adequate security. Select a hotel that allows you to take different routes to your destination if possible.
- Ask for a second story room at a motel. Ground floor rooms are more susceptible to break in. Staying on the second floor also makes it easier to escape if there is a fire. Try to avoid staying above the third floor in any country without a modern and well-equipped fire department. Never stay above the seventh floor.
- Check the windows and doors to make sure they are secure including the lock on the door of an adjoining room.
- Read the fire safety instructions in your hotel room. Know how to report a fire. Be sure you know where the nearest fire exits and alternate exits are located. Count the doors between your room and the nearest exit. Do the same for an alternate exit. This will allow you to reach the exit if the corridor is dark or filled with smoke. Consider traveling with an emergency escape hood.
- Don’t open the door to anybody unless you are familiar with him or her. Talk through the door without opening it. Hotel door chains are practically useless.
- Keep your hotel door locked at all times. Meet visitors in the lobby.
- Do not leave money and other valuables in your hotel room while you are out. Use the hotel safe. Do not leave business documents, especially proprietary material, in the room unsecured.
- Let someone know when you expect to return if you are out late at night.
- If you are alone, do not get on an elevator if there is a suspicious-looking person inside.
Traveling At Your Destination:
-By Car:
- When renting a car, choose a type commonly available locally. Choose a model with a good safety rating. If possible, ask that markings that identify it as a rental car be removed.
- Get the latest model available, make certain it is in good repair and that it has emergency roadside equipment. Always wear seatbelts.
- Pick a car with power locks and windows.
- Select a car with an air conditioner. This will allow you to drive with windows closed. This prevents items from being snatched from inside your car.
- Check the car every time that you do not have direct eye contact with the car.
- Try not to park your car on the street overnight. If the hotel or municipality does not have a parking garage or other secure area, select a well-lit area.
- Keep all doors locked while driving.
- Don’t leave valuables on your seats while driving or when you park.
- Travel using different roads.
-Choosing The Best Road:
- Drive on a main road.
- Travel roads with more than one lane.
- Prefer roads that are close to a police station.
- When driving use the rearview mirror to detect any cars that may be following you.
- Be aware of the location of safe-havens such as police stations, hotels, and hospitals.
- Pay attention to any unusual objects on the road (road blocks, cars stopped on side roads).
- As much as possible, avoid driving at night.
- Never pick up hitchhikers.
- Don’t exit your car if there are suspicious looking individuals in the area.
-Public Transportation:
- Check the Consular Information Sheets to find out if a country has a pattern of tourists being targeted by criminals on public transportation.
- Only take taxis clearly identified with official markings. Beware of unmarked cabs. Chose them yourself and at random.
- Avoid mass transportation at night. Spend the extra money and take a taxi.
- Robbery of passengers on trains along popular tourists routes is a serious problem. It is more common on overnight trains.
- Do not accept food or drink from strangers. It may be drugged.
- On overnight trains, lock the sleeping compartment.
- Do not be afraid to inform the conductor or other official if you feel threatened. Police are frequently assigned to ride trains that have been targeted before.
- The same type of criminal activity found on trains can be found on public buses used by tourists.
How to Handle Money Safely:
- Separate your cash into two portions. Keep some of the money in your wallet and the rest in a belt or separate place on your person. If you have a purse carry it in front of you, over your shoulder across your chest, hold on to it with your hands and walk with the bag away from the curb to avoid drive-by purse-snatchers.
- Beware of pickpockets. Anyone can be a pickpocket. Generally, a pickpocket will use an accomplice to distract you while your pocket is being picked. A common ploy is to have an accomplice bump into you but anything that will distract you will also be effective.
- To avoid carrying large amounts of cash, change your travelers’ checks or withdraw money from an ATM, as you need currency.
- Do not flash large amounts of money when paying a bill. Make sure your credit card is returned to you after each transaction. Check periodically for unauthorized charges.
- Deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money. Do not change money on the black market.
- If your possessions are lost or stolen, report the loss immediately to the local police. Keep a copy of the police report for insurance claims. After reporting missing items to the police, report the loss or theft of credit cards, traveler’s checks, airline tickets and your passport. This will be much easier to accomplish if you have remembered to photocopy the contents of your wallet and if you have written down the overseas contact numbers of your credit card companies. Contact the local embassy or consulate to replace your passport.
Travel to High-Risk Areas:
If you must travel in an area where there has been a history of terrorist attacks or kidnapping or that is the subject of a State Department traveler alert, be sure you:
- Register with the U.S. embassy or consulate upon arrival.
- Do not discuss personal matters and your itinerary with casual acquaintances or strangers.
- Leave no personal or business papers in your hotel room.
- Watch for people or vehicles following you.
- Remember the golden rule of counter-surveillance; if you see the same person or vehicle two times, separated by time and distance, you are probably being followed. If it happens three times, you are being followed. Contact the local police and the nearest embassy or consulate for guidance.
- Refuse unexpected packages.
- Check for loose wires, packages or other suspicious objects around your car.
- Check under the car when you park. Note the presence of any object under your car when you return.
- Be sure your vehicle is mechanically sound in case you need to resort to high-speed or evasive driving.
- Drive with car windows closed in crowded streets. Bombs can be thrown through open windows and it is easier for an assailant to enter your car if the window is open.
- If you are ever in a situation where somebody starts shooting, drop to the floor or get down as low as possible. Do the same if you are in a building and you hear an explosion outside. Often, people will rush to windows after a blast in order to see what happened and are killed as the pressure wave, moving slower than the speed of sound, blows out the windows. Don’t move until you are sure the danger has passed. Take cover behind or under a solid object. If you must move stay as low as possible.
Hijacking/Hostage Situations:
Generally speaking, the most dangerous parts of a hijacking or hostage situation are the beginning and, if there is a rescue attempt, the end. Terrorists are typically are most volatile during the initial moments of a hijacking. Make every attempt to remain calm and alert. The following recommendations are from the US Department of State. These recommendations are under review in light of the events of 9/11. For the most part it is recommended that these guidelines be adhered to unless and until it becomes apparent that the hijackers intend to use the aircraft as a weapon. In that event, it is necessary to resist at all costs. I would also add that if the hijackers are only using boxcutters and are outnumbered 40 to 1 by the passengers, that overpowering the hijackers by force is likely to be in order but must be decided by the hostages that are in the situation themselves.
- Do not resist. Follow their demands and make no sudden or threatening movements. Do not fight or try to escape unless you are certain of being successful.
- Force yourself to remain calm and prepare yourself mentally, physically and emotionally for the possibility of a long ordeal.
- Do nothing to bring attention upon yourself. Avoid direct eye contact with the hijackers and do not obviously observe their actions.
- Initially, do not attempt to use a cell phone to call for help. Later, a cell phone may prove invaluable.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages. Consume little food and drink.
- Cooperate with the hijackers. Do not complain or be confrontational.
- Expect to be interrogated. Answer questions directly but don’t volunteer information or make unnecessary overtures.
- As the situation becomes less volatile, you can make reasonable requests for personal comforts such as going to the bathroom or getting something to drink.
- If you are taken hostage for a longer period of time, try to establish a rapport with your captors, avoiding confrontational subjects such as politics in favor of universally understood topics like family.
- Try to keep your mind active and try to exercise regularly if possible.
- Eat what they give you, whenever it is given. You have no way of knowing if your food or water will be withheld later on.
- If you are a religious person, pray earnestly and often. Don’t become despondent. People are looking for you and are trying to get you safely returned.
Remember the key point is to make a potential aggressor’s job more difficult. A serious criminal or terrorist will watch his or her target before attempting his crime / terrorist act. If they see that you are not an easy target, they will most likely move on to someone who is.
While I was putting this post together I recalled a piece from earlier this year that Bryan Black and the gang over at ITS Tactical put together about luggage security that definitely applies here and would be worth your time to check out.
Sources: Global Security Group, Rotary International, ITS Tactical
I saw this video from The Daily Prep on YouTube and thought that it would be something that would be valuable to pass along. It seems like a fairly straight forward project and an old hardback book can be acquired at a low cost or free from a friend, library sale, thrift store, university, or school. Besides a solid book, all you need is white glue and a razor knife and you will have an extra hiding place that will fit in almost anywhere. This is a great addition to a home security plan. Check out the video and if you like what Dan has to say make sure you leave a comment for him and subsribe to his YouTube channel.
What is the best homemade hiding place that you can think of or have created?
I just want to start today by saying that I wish I would have thought of some of these ideas first but unfortunately I did not. I am cheating a little bit today by using a few YouTube videos to get my point across but I am not sure that I could do a better job. It is important to highlight the importance of properly storing ammunition as well as stocking up on enough ammo for the firearms that you own. Check out these videos for some great ideas on ammo storage and stockpiling:
An awesome idea to discreetly store ammunition -
Here is a great idea to store ammunition for longer periods of time -
Here are a few thoughts on the philosophy of stockpiling ammunition -
Guns, precious metals, jewelry, important documents, family heirlooms, and cash are all things that are valuable. These are also items that most people have as part of their emergency preparedness plans or every day life. Items that are valuable are also susceptible to being destroyed by disaster, taken by thieves, lost due to negligence or because of some various other reasons. As a result of these risks it is important to be protected and avoid loss, right? So what is the best way to keep your valuable items safe? A safe of course!
There are many different manufacturers of safes out there but not every safe is created equal. Also, keep in mind that not every safe is designed to protect the contents from every potential threat. Because of these factors, ensure that you conduct your due diligence and that any safe that you consider buying will meet your needs and expectations.I will confess here and now that I am a Glenn Beck junkie. Whether this makes me more or less of a person remains to be seen but what I can tell you is that the man uses Liberty Safes which he claims to be amazing. Never one to just take one person at their word, I went to the Liberty Safes website and watched some of the videos as recommended by Glenn and all I can say is, WOW! These safes are incredible. Check out these videos (They will also help with the due diligence process I mentioned.):
Obviously if you have an arsenal of weapons, a stockpile of cash, and one of a kind heirlooms then having a safe is somewhat of a no brainer. But what if that does not describe your situation? The Liberty Safe Company also has the following list of items on their website that some of their customers keep in their safes (it may help you decide if a safe is the right decision for you):
- Birth Certificates
- Cash / Extra Checks
- Video Equipment
- Gold / Silver
- Stamp Collections
- Coin Collections
- Business Records
- Art Collections
- Tools
- Fishing Rods
- Portable Stereos
- Tax Records
- Software
- Book Collections
- Jewelry / Diamonds
- Computer Disks
- Family Silver
- Genealogy Records
- Account Statements
- Baseball Cards
- Firearms
- Stocks & Bonds
- Wedding Photos
- DVDs / CDs
- Diaries & Journals
- Family Heirlooms
- Insurance Papers
- Christmas Gifts
- Family Videos
- Wine
- Fur Coats
- IPODS / Electronics
- Expensive China
- Keys
- Tickets / Passports
- Laptop Computers
- Archery Equipment
- Collectable Figures
- Deeds / Contracts
- Musical Instruments
- Film Negatives
Having a safe itself is not likely enough to ensure the security of your valuables. If you watched the video of the pry test, you likely noticed the fact that when the “thieves” were breaking into the safes that they placed them on their backs to successfully get into them. One way to avoid allowing thieves this option is to bolt safe to the floor. Since most home burglaries are over in seven minutes or less, bolting your safe down also helps prevent it from being carried off during a burglary.
It is also important to keep in mind that if you do have a safe, it might be worth making an effort to disguise it. There is the assumption that if a safe is there, valuables are there. In addition to this assumption, it is widely publicized that there is less faith in the banking system these days which has resulted in more people keeping cash on hand at home. If a person can see a safe in your home or business it might be the temptation that pushes them over the edge and turns them into a thief. Disguising your safe can make you a hard target instead of a soft target as we always called it in the military. The best ways that I can think of hiding larger safes like the Liberty Safes is to keep it in a closet behind some clothes or inside of a large cabinet.
If you have some insight on the best safes for preppers, how to disguise a safe, or anything related please make a comment.
In the event of civil unrest, societal collapse, or times of disaster there will undoubtedly be a number of threats that the population will be forced to deal with. It is absolutely impossible to accurately predict what the threats will be. What I am confident about is that regardless of the cause of unrest or collapse or what the disaster is, the result will be widespread threats to the population and could take the form of utility outages, food shortages, martial law, or bank runs. I am also confident that pain and suffering can be mitigated by prior planning and action. Probably the single greatest advantage to planning now to respond to these threats is that most preparations can be made far in advance of any unrest, collapse, or disaster and that many of the preparations that are made for social unrest or societal collapse can also be used to protect a home during a natural or manmade disaster as well.
Photo Credit: Boston.com
Every area has its own unique elements that must be kept in mind and the best way to approach this is through the use of population zones which are based on the density of the population in the local area. Population density zones are broken down into urban, suburban, rural, mountain, desert, and coastal zones. Special considerations should be given to each zone as follows:
Urban – The urban area is likely to be the one that is most desired to be avoided during the difficult times of unrest and disaster. There is a higher probability of martial law being implemented but at the same time, due to the population density, the urban area is most likely going to be the center of any assistance activity that is available. The obvious question is, I have made preparations so that I do not have to rely on others for assistance so why would I need to put myself in this position? My response to this would be that in difficult times, those are seen never getting any sort of assistance are likely going to be targets because it is obvious they have a great amount of resources at their disposal. Even if getting assistance is a facade, it may be imperative to maintaining the persona of being in the same state of need as everyone else. This brings up another benefit that lends itself nicely to the urban landscape and that is the “grey man” theory or the theory that a person that acts and looks the same as everyone else must not be any different from the rest of the population.
Special planning considerations will need to be kept in mind when evaluating egress routes from urban areas. Some concerns regarding urban routes include tunnels that go under bodies of water or underground, bridges that are part of the route that could be damaged or blocked, and areas where damaged buildings could be blocking the roads.
Suburban – I see suburban areas as being a potentially dangerous area. The reason that I say this is that many suburban residents feel comfortable where they are and will choose to stay right where they are (bug in) if something were to happen. At the same time, those that are trying to get out of the urban areas will be moving into or through the suburban areas. Concurrently, anyone who might be trying to move from the outlying areas to the urban areas to seek assistance or to rendezvous with family will be moving through the suburbs also. It is a result of all this activity that creates such a dangerous suburban environment in my opinion. In such a tumultuous time, it seems reasonable that desperate citizens that are in transition in these areas might target suburban residents as sources of food, shelter, weapons, or other supplies/life support items.
Rural – There are many advantages to a rural environment but there are also some disadvantages. It is advantageous to live in the rural environment in the event of chaos and unrest because there is not often rioting and in fact, this type of activity is almost nonexistent in the rural areas. Rural houses tend to be spread further apart from each other which creates additional stand-off space from each other making rural homes easier to defend and see when people are approaching. Because of this same distance from “civilization” rural homes could be targeted by thieves, murderers, hordes of rogue hungry wanderers, and other generally terrible types which most would consider a disadvantage. The rural environment also generally has fewer law enforcement officers that are required to cover larger territories than their suburban and urban counterparts which makes them more likely to be overwhelmed during tough times. Fire and emergency medical personnel in rural areas are often primarily volunteer forces which may significantly reduce if not completely eliminate their availability in times of unrest or disaster.
Mountain – The mountainous regions can offer a tactical advantage for defending oneself in times of civil unrest. It is much easier to defend yourself from the high ground against an opposing force on the lower ground in comparison to fighting a force on the higher ground from a lower point. There is a concern with bad weather and mountainous terrain. In the event of heavy rain or snowfall, it can be very difficult or even impossible to get up or down mountain roads as a result of mud slides, slippery conditions, or washouts. Fallen trees can also make a mountain road unusable as a result of a complete obstruction. Another concern
Desert – A common characteristic of desert areas is that they are often found in low-lying areas and are therefore prone to flash floods. As a result of this risk, residents in a desert region should consider maintaining a supply of sandbags to facilitate a faster response in the event of a flash flood. The advantage to the desert environment is a lower propensity for the roving band of outlaws AKA “golden horde” in the event of societal collapse because of the lower population density and fewer resources available to sustain life.
Coastal – One of the unique environmental circumstances that residents of a coastal region have to be concerned with is the threat of hurricanes and tsunamis. Sandbags can be placed to protect your home from flooding if it is located in a low-lying area but as part of your evacuation plans you should also know the minimum distance that you will need to move inland in order to evade the dangers of a tsunami. Another concern for coastal residents is if unrest or collapse were to occur and rioters were to move in a manner that would block coastal residents egress from their homes, they may need to plan to escape the region via the water.
Preparations that every person should make for their shelter regardless of where they live:
- Designate a safe room. An ideal location for a safe room will be in the middle of the house and it should not have any exterior doors or windows and will also only ideally have one interior door. If it is not possible to have a safe room on the interior of your home, the second best option is a room along an exterior wall that does not have an exterior door or window. Most people think of a safe room as being a place to go in the event of a storm, which is true, but it is also a good location for a family to fall back to if there is a home invasion and they are all able to make it there.
- Have enough exterior grade plywood on hand to completely cover every exterior window and door in the dwelling. Unless all of your pieces are precut, you should also keep a circular saw handy. The one alibi to keep in mind with this option is that if you lose power you will need a generator in order to make the saw work.
- Keep an ample quantity of exterior grade deck screws on hand to attach the plywood securely to your dwelling outside of the exterior doors and windows.
- Store contractor grade plastic sheeting and duct tape in enough quantity to completely seal around the interior side of all exterior doors, windows, and vents.
- A razor knife or utility blade should also be kept in close proximity to the plastic sheeting and duct tape so that you have an easy way to cut the sheeting and duct tape. Also have plenty of replacement blades for your cutting implement.
- Store at least some sandbags at your home regardless of whether you are in a flood plain or not. While sandbags are excellent for deterring flooding, they are also great for use as a barricade or shielding from ballistic projectiles.
*Disclaimer – Ensure to consult all local laws, codes, and regulations before taking any action to secure, harden, or fortify your home or any other structure whether it be due to civil unrest, societal collapse, natural disaster, or the zombie apocalypse.
Don’t forget to help fill in the blanks or enhance some of the points that were already made by making a comment of your own in the comments section below.
If you feel that you got any value from this post or any others on The Prepared Ninja, go to the homepage and subscribe to our updates on the right hand side of the page.
The following list of reasons why you need an “assault weapon” is written by Evan F. Nappen and was posted today on AmmoLand. I thought it was too good not to share and in an effort to memorialize this great list on the internet forever, I decided to quote it directly.
AmmoLand, 7/26/2012
101 Reasons Why You NEED An “Assault Weapon”
By Evan F. Nappen, Attorney At Law
“When I was Counsel to the NJ Coalition of Sportsman I wrote this piece for the April, 1991 issue of the THE GUARDIAN which was the group’s newsletter.
It was later published by Harper’s magazine. Here is an updated version as the issue is being pushed again by the blood dancing anti-gunners.
A question we are all tired of hearing in the so-called “debate” over so-called “assault weapons” is, “why does anybody need one?” Here is the answer once and for all.
You need an assault weapon—
- 1. to help continue the American tradition of citizen/soldier.
- 2. for recreation.
- 3. to collect military small arms.
- 4. to get quick extra shots at more game while hunting.
- 5. to get quick extra shots at the same game while hunting.
- 6. for more fun plinking.
- 7. to defend yourself against a street gang.
- 8. to defend yourself against mob violence.
- 9. to defend yourself against looters.
- 10. to shoot in a Civilian Marksmanship Program competition.
- 11. to shoot in an “Action Rifle” or “Practical Rifle” target match.
- 12. to assist the police in an emergency (e.g. 1966 Texas Tower Sniper incident, citizens assisted with M1′s).
- 13. to help defend the country from a foreign invasion.
- 14. to help defend the country from an internal takeover.
- 15. to help the firearms industry remain economically strong.
- 16. to pay the federal tax on guns that goes to aid wildlife.
- 17. to encourage further research into new firearm technology.
- 18. to save time while shooting.
- 19. to have increased reliability in functioning.
- 20. to have a longer lasting firearm.
- 21. to have a less costly/ more affordable firearm.
- 22. to have an easier to manufacture firearm.
- 23. to have an easier to repair firearm.
- 24. to have an easier to take apart and clean firearm.
- 25. to have a more versatile firearm.
- 26. to own a highly weather resistant firearm.
- 27. to appreciate the evolution of firearm technology.
- 28. to defend your business.
- 29. to defend your home.
- 30. to defend your boat.
- 31. to defend your camp.
- 32. to defend your ranch.
- 33. to defend your farm.
- 34. to defend your family.
- 35. to have reduced recoil when shooting.
- 36. as an investment.
- 37. as a military souvenir.
- 38. as a hedge against inflation.
- 39. because criminals statistically prefer revolvers over all other firearms.
- 40. to have a more psychologically intimidating firearm. (often the mere presence of a firearm will stop a crime)
- 41. to own a firearm least likely to be used in a crime. (less than 1% are assault firearms.)
- 42. to own a firearm which purposely functions slower than other firearms thereby reducing recoil. (e.g. Remington 1100.)
- 43. to own a firearm used in Olympic competition.
- 44. to appreciate the mechanical genius of firearm designers.
- 45. to have a firearm which uses external magazines.
- 46. to shoot at the National Matches at Camp Perry.
- 47. to reject anti-gun bias.
- 48. to challenge “Big Brotherism”.
- 49. to protect yourself against a pack of feral dogs.
- 50. to own a firearm better for the physically handicapped.
- 51. to save all firearms by not giving in to “salami” tactics.
- 52. to do trick shooting (e.g. multiple aerial targets).
- 53. to shoot military ammunition. (Inexpensive surplus)
- 54. to be part of an armed populous, creating a tactical disadvantage for any potential enemies.
- 55. to familiarize yourself with your country’s military rifle.
- 56. to familiarize yourself with a foreign country’s military rifle.
- 57. because they are interesting.
- 58. to hang on your wall.
- 59. to shoot clay targets.
- 60. to shoot paper targets.
- 61. to shoot Metallic Silhouettes.
- 62. to exercise your constitutional rights.
- 63. to exercise a natural right.
- 64. to exercise a civil right.
- 65. to exercise a fundamental right.
- 66. to exercise an inalienable right.
- 67. to exercise a human right.
- 68. to defend yourself after a New York City-type blackout.
- 69. to defend yourself against a Miami-type riot.
- 70. to defend yourself after a St. Croix-type hurricane in which both officers and escaped prisoners have run amok.
- 71. to avoid a “Tiananmen Square” in the U.S.
- 72. to own a firearm in common use and therefore protected under the Heller decision.
- 73. to protect livestock from predators.
- 74. to show support for political ideals of the founding fathers.
- 75. to own a firearm designed to wound rather than kill (according to the Dir. Of the Wound Ballistics Laboratory).
- 76. to own a firearm not readily convertible to full automatic.
- 77. to own a firearm with that “shoulder thingy that goes up.”
- 78. to own a “state-of-the-art” firearm (e.g. FN SCAR).
- 79. to own a “turn-of-the-century” firearm (e.g. Borchardt).
- 80. which is more pleasant to shoot (lighter and less recoil).
- 81. because all of your other firearms will be banned next.
- 82. to own a firearm which is difficult to conceal.
- 83. to own a firearm which the media glamorizes.
- 84. to own a firearm which might be banned.
- 85. to own a firearm which is banned.
- 86. to own a firearm that is no frills and practical in design.
- 87. to own on of the most mechanically-safe firearms. (e.g. Uzi).
- 88. to own a firearm that is a “work of art”.
- 89. to own a Valmet M-76 which the BATF says has no sporting use.
- 90. to own a Valmet Hunter which the BATF says has sporting use.
- 91. to own a firearm that made history (e.g. M-1 Carbine).
- 92. to shoot a firearm that made history.
- 93. to own a firearm that can be dropped and still function.
- 94. to own a firearm that can be coated in mud and still function.
- 95. to own a firearm that can be dunked in water and function.
- 96. to own a firearm that can be frozen solid and still function.
- 97. to own a firearm that can be buried in sand and still function.
- 98. to be a prepared member of the unorganized militia as defined in the US Code (10 US Code Sect. 311 (a)).
- 99. to distinguish between an object and its misuse.
- 100.because you believe in freedom.
- 101.if YOU say you need one. In America, an individual’s need should not be determined by the state. There are approximately 100 million firearm owners in the country. That’s 100 million more reasons for owning any firearm.”
Read more at Ammoland.com: http://www.ammoland.com/2012/07/26/101-reasons-why-you-need-an-assault-weapon/#ixzz21mh0rNTV
If you can think of any more reasons that you NEED an “assault weapon”, please leave a comment below.
The economic and employment situation in America these days is, well…less than ideal. This is making life increasingly difficult for a growing number of individuals and families as the months tick by every year. To combat their money problems, many have taken the approach of doing whatever it takes from working odd jobs to going on government social programs and some have even gone as far as becoming criminals to make ends meet. This new breed of criminals is in addition to your other run of the mill burglars and crackheads that are out there breaking into houses. The following things you should know in order to protect your home but you won’t ever hear them from them from a burglar.
1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.
2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.
3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste… and taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.
4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it..
5. If it snows while you’re out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.
6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don’t let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it’s set. That makes it too easy.
7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom – and your jewelry. It’s not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.
8. It’s raining, you’re fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door – understandable. But understand this: I don’t take a day off because of bad weather.
9. I always knock first. If you answer, I’ll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don’t take me up on it.)
10. Do you really think I won’t look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.
11. Here’s a helpful hint: I almost never go into kids’ rooms.
12. You’re right: I won’t have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it’s not bolted down, I’ll take it with me.
13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you’re reluctant to leave your TV on while you’re out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. ( Find it at … http://www.faketv.com )
14. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.
15. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.
16. I’ll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he’ll stop what he’s doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn’t hear it again, he’ll just go back to what he was doing. It’s human nature.
17. I’m not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?
18. I love looking in your windows. I’m looking for signs that you’re home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I’d like. I’ll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets.
19. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It’s easier than you think to look up your address.
20. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it’s an invitation.
21. If you don’t answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.
Please leave a comment below if there are any additional tips or tricks that can be added on how to avoid a home burglary. It would be greatly appreciated if you did not add your name to a story of a crime that you committed! : )
Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina, Oregon, California, and Kentucky; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs http://www.crimedoctor.com and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.
Are preparedness minded individuals crazy? The outspoken consensus seems to be yes. Last night I was watching an episode of Doomsday Preppers from National Geographic and every time I see that show it reminds me of why the public perception is the way that it is. I think it is obvious that NatGeo has gone to great lengths to portray preppers in this manner which does not help the situation. However, some of the things that the subjects being filmed are willing to do are certainly not helping the image of the prepper community. Below I have outlined some of the, um…questionable things that are shared on the episode that I watched.
The first gentleman that was profiled on the episode was discussing his food stores and mentioned that he stores dog food for his dog but also for himself to eat. If that wasn’t bad enough they showed a nice shot of him breaking a can open and devouring the tasty morsels. In this case the man who was being profiled was smart enough to not give his full name or
One couple disclosed that they have over $30,000 in precious metals buried in various places on their property. The fact that someone has purchased precious metals in itself is not crazy but the fact that they are willing to share that they have so much and that it is all buried in their yard is super crazy! The show gave this couples first and last names and a general idea of where they live which certainly creates an opportunity for someone to victimize them if they are willing to connect the dots.
The third guy that was profiled blew my mind! He gave his full name, the city and state that he lived in, and the line of work that he is in as well as the fact that he owned his business. In addition to all of this information about who he is and where he lives and works this dude also outlined what seemed to be most of his preps and then mentioned the fact that he keeps most of them at his shop. He even went through his family’s bug out plan and showed how to get to his underground bunker which he mentioned is under his shop. The cherry on top of it all is the fact that out of curiosity I googled this dude and in about 5 seconds knew exactly where his shop was. Once again, someone with bad intentions could exploit this information and use it against him in a variety of manners. This same guy was asked if what he thought of his friends and family asking him if he thought he was wasting his time by being a prepper. He responded by saying, “What if i’m not wasting my time?” He then was asked if he would allow his family and friends into his underground shelter and he said that he would not. He would just kill them. Really? You are going to look your grandma in the eye and shoot her? This is the crap that I am talking about.
Some preppers seem like they might actually be crazy, especially the ones that are willing to shoot their grandmother. The biggest thing that I noticed was that NatGeo is not doing anyone any favors with their Doomsday Preppers show unless it is in terms of making their executives money. The biggest lesson to be learned is that operational security or keeping the information about what you are doing to yourself is paramount. There is really nothing to gain by broadcasting your plans on TV. Share what you are doing with your family and close friends that are in your inner circle but outside of that keep your yapper shut. Take this opportunity to learn from the mistakes of others and avoid making as many mistakes yourself.
I recently stumbled upon a product that I thought was pretty cool. There is a company by the name of TMT Tactical out of Morganton, North Carolina that makes TMT Wallets. Now I will admit that upon first inspection I do not find this product to be a wallet that I would put in my back pocket but I do think it has practical applications for emergency preparedness.
My favorite thing about this wallet is the fact that it is made in the United States! There are plenty of products that are made in Guadalajara these days so it is always great to see something that is actually employing Americans. The TMT Wallet also features RFID protection as part of the polymer material that it is made out of which protects you from having your personal and financial information stolen right out of your wallet via radio frequency ID scanners.
The TMT Wallet is made of a glass filled polymer that makes the wallet ultra-light, weighing in at approximately 2.4 ounces. It is also fairly compact in size with measurements of 4.25 inches by 3.5 inches by 1.15 inches. Some of the features include:
- Glass Breaker
- Pen
- Toothpick
- Tweezers
- Compass
- Lanyard Clip
- Reflector
- Self-Defense Striking Edge
- False compartments in the top and bottom allow for easy concealment of small items.
- Money clips on the top and bottom to securely hold money and cards.
- O-Ring seals the TMT Wallet and protects the contents from moisture, dust, and dirt.
- The TMT Wallet also floats which is extra handy if you spend any time around the water.
The cost for the TMT Wallet is $85.00 plus $15.00 for shipping and handling. This may seem a little steep at first impression but if you consider how much more durable this is compared to a leather or nylon wallet combined with the additional features, it does not really seem like a stretch at all.
The FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program reported that in 2010 there were almost 1.6 million residential property burglaries in the United States. Of these residential burglaries there were 965,670 that involved forcible entry, over 100,550 involved an attempted forced entry, and the remaining burglaries were unlawful entries but were not forced. This is a staggering statistic! I have been fortunate in never having been put in the position of experiencing a home invasion or burglary but it is also important to me that I do everything that I can to avoid ever being in that situation. I think this concern is real for everyone and it made me create this list of the top ways that a home invasion can be deterred.
- Lock doors and windows, constantly and consistently, when gone or even at home.
- Ensure that all exterior doors are solid, sturdy doors with at least two locks and a peephole.
- Keep valuables out of sight/locked in a safe.
- Install a monitored security system and display yard signs and window stickers advertising this fact.
- Have security laminate installed on windows.
- Every exterior door jamb should have a security kit installed.
- Implement adequate security lighting in/around the home.
- Use timers on indoor lighting when you will be away from home.
- Stop mail and newspaper delivery during times of extended absences.
- Make arrangements for yard maintenance, snow removal, etc. as well when you will not be home for long periods of time.
- Establish rapport with your neighbors. A strong relationship with the members of your community will mean that you know who belongs there and also ensure that when you are not around your neighbors can keep an eye on things for you. Make sure that you extend the same courtesy to your community as well.
- Develop a plan to consolidate in a safe room or leave the home during an invasion.
- Stash an appropriate home defense firearm in your safe room.
- Maintain emergency supplies (First Aid Kit, Cell Phone, Flashlights, Etc.) in your safe room.
- Reinforce sliding glass doors and windows with blocking sticks that prevent sliding doors or windows from being forced open.
- A closed circuit television system will greatly deter potential home invaders. Keep the hard drive or device where footage is recorded safely locked up and disguised in a spot where it cannot be found to be taken by the invaders.
- Be aware of what is normal for your neighborhood and notice discrepancies when they occur. Report these strange occurrences to the police so that they can be investigated.
- Safeguard private information. Don’t throw away items like ATM receipts that may show significant balances in bank accounts that may motivate a burglar to commit a crime against you. Using a shredder to dispose of this information will help prevent such leaks from occurring.
- Maintain the exterior of your residence. Keep trees, shrubs, and bushes trimmed back and away from the residence where they could provide concealment for a burglar while they attempt to break in.
- Lock up ladders and other items that are often left outside that could be used as tools to gain illegal access to your home.
At the end of the day preventing a home invasion does not have to be rocket surgery brain science rocket science. Well you get the idea! It merely takes a dedicated commitment to practicing these few simple steps day after day and making sure that your family members also adhere to your family’s plan. Obviously some of these practices can be costly to implement but on the other hand some of these practices can be done for free. The key to remember is that a few simple habits can save you plenty of headaches and maybe some heartache.
Make home security a priority and implement these practices today!
If you have additional suggestions on how a home invasion can be avoided please chime in and make a comment below.
