Emergency Preparedness Security

In the wake of hurricane Harvey and its devastation I am thinking about emergency preparedness.
We all know that emergency preparedness means stockpiling long term food storage, water, and other survival supplies, but your planning should also include having a self defense strategy. This may be an uncomfortable topic for some, but that discomfort could prove dangerous for you without preparation.
Tension quickly escalates in the aftermath of a disaster. There is often confusion and disorder that follows, leading to looting and other criminal activities. The point is not to become paralyzed by fear, but to be aware of your surroundings and how you would react if confronted by an aggressor. Multiple choices for self defense exist, and you should pursue several. You should have training on all of these by a competent instructor.
Self Defense Options
Self defense classes: You may not always have access to a weapon, so learning how to protect yourself with just your body is the best place to start. Search the internet for classes in your area. Check with your local community college or university, as they often hold self defense classes, or the police department will be able to point you toward classes. Practice the techniques once the class has ended to stay ready.
Pepper Spray/Mace: You may need to protect yourself from other people, dogs, or wild animals. The spray comes in a variety of sizes, from small containers that attach to your key chain to large canisters that spray bigger volume at greater distances. Practice using the spray so that you are able to trigger and aim it if needed.
Baton: Compact and light, batons can be carried in a purse or in a pocket. Some are expandable with the flick of a wrist, and some contain an electrical charge to stun the attacker. Batons require some technique that should be taught by an expert.
Knife: Also compact and light, and you already know how to use it.
Taser/stun gun: Devices that stop the aggressor with an electrical charge, these are potentially lethal and require training and practice. Check local laws that regulate these weapons. Be sure to stock extra batteries, and in the case of a taser, carry extra cartridges.
Firearm: With the ability to inflict substantial bodily harm, not everyone is willing to carry a firearm. Concealed weapons permits are required, along with training and practice. Schools exist to teach tactical firearms use for protection. Gun safety courses are strongly recommended. Do not advertise the fact that you are carrying a firearm, and remember to stock extra ammunition.
Steps You Can Take
You never know when you may have to protect yourself, so keep some method of self defense in your car, your home, and in your emergency preparedness kit. Try to place them so that they are always within reach.
There are some simple ways you can alert others and call for help if you are attacked. Carry a whistle or an alarm on your key chain so it is always close at hand. Some alarms even have an LED light to help draw attention or use as a flashlight. Of course hitting, kicking and screaming are always effective deterrents as well.
Secure your home. Check the reliability of locks at each entry point. Make sure that you have both dead bolts and handle locks on each door, and that the doors themselves are either sturdy metal or solid wood. Place inexpensive intruder alarms on doors and windows that alert you if motion is detected. Keep a self defense device close at hand in case your home is breached.
Kid proof your self defense devices. Be sure that your children are educated on the safe handling, or not handling, of each device. Curiosity often leads to accidents, so explain the dangers, and then secure the items. It is important that their safety education is part of your emergency preparedness.
Conclusion
There are laws surrounding what you can or cannot do to protect yourself. Learn the restrictions in your city and state and operate within the law. There may be legal ramifications to the methods you choose to employ. Practice your chosen techniques so that you are always ready to protect yourself and your family. Being educated and prepared will give you the confidence to handle aggressive situations effectively.

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