Do You Help The Guy In Need When He Asks For Money?

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Times are really tough right now. The economy sucks and many people are out of work. If you are lucky enough to have a job, good for you! When companies are closing their doors and laying off people, desperate people tend to do desperate things - like rob innocent people. Of course, there are those people who are too darn lazy to even try to work because it is easier to rob and steal from others.

You read in the paper and hear on the news each day about people who are being attacked on the street, as they leave the restaurant, local pub, or shopping mall. Too many people are lax about their personal safety never even considering that a personal assault or attack may happen to them.

Today I read in the paper that a man was robbed and hit in the head with a beer bottle as he is pumping gas at a local gas station. He said that while he was pumping gas at 11 p.m. three men asked him for money. He told them he didn’t have any and the men knocked him down, assaulted him and robbed things from his truck. I’m sure this guy had not considered that this situation would be imminent.

My husband and I stopped at a McDonald’s on the Chicago toll way the other night and as we approached our car, I could see a guy coming towards my husband. My first thought was to avoid him and get inside my car. He asked my husband for money because his car had crapped out on him. First of all, if you are in dire straights like that wouldn’t you call someone you know instead hitting up a complete stranger for money - unless you have a scam on your mind? I motioned for my husband and we went straight to our car trying to avoid the man.

It really is sad that you have to react that way but these type of criminal assaults are happening regularly. It is hard to tell a real situation when someone may desperately need help from a scam where someone is trying to rob you of your cash or valuables. It is important that we all become more proactive in our personal security and safety - and know what to do to keep ourselves and our family safe wherever we are.

Here are some simple strategies to keep yourself safe when you are out and about.

1. Take a local self-defense training class. One that I highly recommend is the RAD Self-Defense Training. Check with your local law enforcement agency for any training they sponsor. Knowing self-defense techniques, strategies, and how to defend yourself against an attacker is a must especially in our trying times. I have always recommended self-defense classes for women but men are being attacked quite a bit lately. Where men think they can handle themselves, many of the attackers are coming in groups of 2-3 attackers on one. If you are at least trained in self-defense awareness, you stand a better chance of defending yourself even if it against 2-3 attackers.

2. Carry some type of personal protection when out on the street, especially if you are out by yourself late at night. Excellent non-lethal protection like Pepper Spray, Mace, TASER C2, Stun Gun, or a loud personal alarm are easy to carry in your purse or pocket and can be very effective if personally attacked or assaulted. Make sure you are well aware how to use these personal protection devices. More and more individuals are opting to carry a concealed lethal weapon like a firearm. Once again be sure to take the necessary training when you carry a firearm. This is a deadly weapon and you want to make sure you are totally in command of your weapon should an attack/assault situation happen to you.

Personal awareness is key here. Be aware of your surroundings and try not to be out late at night by yourself. Criminals are looking for individuals who look weak and vulnerable. Be sure to carry yourself with confidence and make sure you speak in a commanding voice if a stranger approaches you in a confrontational manner.

Consider your personal safety a priority at all times. There are way too many people who will have no problem assaulting you for whatever valuables or cash you may be carrying.

Stay Aware…Stay Alert…Stay Alive!

Checkout a complete list of non-lethal Personal Protection Products at my website: http://www.ThePersonalSecurityStore.com

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Michael Bane, Downrange.TV, Guest On Let’s Talk Home Security, 03-18-09

Let’s Talk Home Security Radio, Wednesday, March 18, 2009, 6:00 p.m. EST/3:00 p.m. PST. Listen Online @ http://www.blogtalkradio.com/letstalkhomesecurity or via telephone call-in number (646) 727-3396. Join us as we talk to Michael Bane, Downrange.TV.

Michael Bane, Radio Host/Editor of Downrange.TV talks with Let’s Talk Home Security host Cheryl Watterson about guns, personal protection, safety, and how to keep your home and family safe.

Bane has an amazing website that all gun enthusiasts, outdoorsmen, sportsmen, and those seeking additional information on personal protection and safety will benefit from.

Michael hosts his own weekly radio show on Downrange.TV called "Down Range Radio with Michael Bane." He is also Host and Producer for the following shows, "Shooting Gallery", "The Best Defense", and "Cowboys." You can go to www.downrange.tv and access these shows.

I came across Michael Bane a few weeks ago as I was writing an article on Home Invasion Prevention for my website www.homesecurity911.com. The video Michael had put together on Home Invasion Prevention was perfect and went right along with my blog article. You can see the video by clicking here.

The video was so well put together that I contacted Michael to see if he would agree to talk with me on my radio show Let’s Talk Home Security radio. He agreed. The valuable security information and knowledge he will impart about personal home protection using a firearm, the best defense in personal safety, and how to avoid a home invasion will certainly be of great benefit to everyone who listens.

Be sure to listen to the interview with Michael Bane on Let’s Talk Home Security radio show Wednesday, March 18, 2009, 6:00 p.m. EST/3:00 p.m. PST. The radio call-in number is (646) 727-3396 or listen online at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/letstalkhomesecurity.

Protect Your Home with a FREE ADT home security system ($850 Value). You pay only $99 Installation Fee plus the 24-Hour Monitoring Services. Call 866-755-6137 or go to http://www.isecureyourhome.com. Sign up and get a Free Bonus Personal Protection Package.

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Cheryl Watterson Interviews Security Expert Robert Siciliano on Radio Show

Robert Siciliano Is Interviewed By Cheryl Watterson Host Of Let’s Talk Home Security

Robert Siciliano is a Security Expert and Author of the book The Security Minute. He focuses on over 14 categories of security; however, our discussions will center primarily on Personal Security and Safety, Home Security, Home Invasions, Identity Theft Security, and how individuals can stay safe from crime 24/7.

The real estate industry is considered a high-risk type profession and Robert provides real estate agent safety training all across the country. In his training he reminds professional agents of the need to make their security and safety a high priority and reviews tips and strategies that will help them avoid becoming a victim of a violent criminal attack.

The video below is an excellent example of the safety awareness training he presents to real estate agents.

Be sure to catch the interview with Robert Siciliano on Let’s Talk Home Security radio show Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. EST/3:00 p.m. PST. You can listen via your cell/home phone at (646) 727-3396 or online at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/letstalkhomesecurity.

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ALERT WARNING: Carjacking/Abduction The Latest Violent Crime

Ladies - Be Alert And Aware Of Your Surroundings When You Are Shopping At The Local Grocery Store - Shopping Mall, Restaurant - Or Whenever You Are Out By Yourself! There are criminals waiting to catch those who are not paying attention — those who have let their guard down — to attack at the right opportune time! Don’t become a victim of this type of crime!

As if there isn’t enough for law-abiding citizens to be concerned with - a crazy economy, job losses, home burglaries on the rise and home invasion robberies increasing. Now when you go to the grocery store or even the local Target store you have to be more alert and aware of everything around you because there could be someone waiting in the parking lot to carjack your vehicle or worse yet, abduct you!!!

Make your personal safety and security a habit, especially when you are away from home and by yourself. Watch this video as it shows that Carjacking and Abduction crimes are happening more than many of us realize. (If no video appears, go to www.selfdefensewithanattitude.com to watch).

Courtesy of KMBCTV

There have been several abduction attempts and carjacking crimes that have occurred in our small city within the last few weeks. In a city of less than 100,000 people this is definately not a common crime, but it is one that has many people very concerned. Here is one of the recent headlines:

Courtesy of the South Bend Tribune

In wake of abduction attempts, how can shoppers protect themselves?

By Beth Boehne - Story Created: Feb 27, 2009 at 5:57 PM EST

MISHAWAKA — In addition to the abduction of a 19-year-old girl on Tuesday, police want to know if Michael Lindsey is connected to two other attempted abductions earlier in the day. All three of incidents happened in broad daylight, in parking lots.

So we headed to Meijer with Mishawaka police Lt. Tim Williams to see what women were doing right and wrong.

One woman was watching at all times and had her purse by her side.

"It’s next to her, so she has it … she’s not worried about her cart, where it’s going; but she has her purse on her, she’s keeping her purse with her … when she came out she was looking around," Lt. Williams observed.

"Don’t roll your window down," he continued. "If you’re not in your car try and get in your car as quick as possible.

Read the rest of full story at - http://www.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=In+wake+of+abduction+attempts%2C+how+can+shoppers+protect+themselves%3F&expire=&urlID=34459013&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wsbt.com%2Fnews%2Flocal%2F40446242.html&partnerID=181031

It Can Happen Anywhere And To Anyone

• Though carjackings can occur anytime, a sizeable share appear to take place during the late night hours.
• Carjacking isn’t just a problem in large cities – it happens in suburbs, small towns, and rural areas.
• Carjackers look for opportunity. They don’t choose victims by sex, race, or age.

What Do Carjackers Look For And What Should You Do To Avoid Being A Victim?

Areas that carjackers target are: intersections controlled by traffic lights or stops lights, parking garages, shopping malls, grocery stores, gas stations, car washes, ATM machines, residential driveways, highway exit and entry ramps.

Be alert to your surroundings, even when you feel rushed.
When approaching your car, have your key in your hand, and check the back seat before you get in.
If someone is loitering near your unoccupied car as you approach it, keep walking until the person leaves.
Be wary of people asking for directions or handing out flyers. Trust your instincts – if something makes you feel uneasy, get into your car quickly, lock the doors and drive away.
Avoid driving alone. Have someone with you especially at night.
When you come to a stop, leave enough space to maneuver around other cars.
In extreme situations you might even consider going through a traffic light, as long as you can do so without causing an accident.
Don’t stop to assist a stranger whose car has broken down. Instead, drive to the nearest phone or use your cell phone to call the police for help.
If you are driving home and notice someone you don’t recognize loitering, drive around the block and come back after the person has left.
Avoid parking near anything that limits your visibility.
Most importantly – If a carjacker threatens you with a gun or other weapon, give up your car. Don’t’ argue. Your life is worth far more than a car!
If someone takes your car, get away from the areas as quickly as you can. Try to remember what the carjacker looked like and report the crime immediately to the police. You might consider carrying some type of personal protection on your keychain like pepper spray or mace spray, or even a stun gun or TASER C2. As I have mentioned in many of my articles, taking a self-defense or safety awareness training class can teach you what to do and how to protect and defend yourself against these types of criminal attacks. Check with your local law enforcement to see if they have self-defense training classes available.

Stay Aware…Stay Alert…Stay Alive!!

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Self-Defense WAA - Have A Safe, Happy & Prosperous 2009!!

The new year is finally here and luckily 2008 is in the rearview mirrow! Today we have been celebrating the first day of 2009. I hope this day has been a positive start and your outlook for the entire year is optimistic. This has been a day of being grateful and excited about the future. If there are some things we did not accomplish in 2008 - both business and personal, we now have a fresh start to make them happen in 2009.

For me that starts with setting yearly goals and a plan for my personal and business life. By looking at what I set the year before I can see what I accomplished and what I didn’t. Maybe the ones I didn’t aren’t really that important now. If that’s the case, I scratch it and move on. If I have a written set of goals, I am more likely to achieve them. If I have to try to remember my goals, forget it!!

What are your goals for 2009? Do you have personal and home security goals? Is one of your goals to provide better protection for your home making it a safer place for you and your family? Have you been considering a security system for your home - but have just been procrastinating? How about your personal security and safety? Having a plan of action to keep yourself safe whether at home, traveling, or wherever you are is an excellent goal to have. Carry some type of personal protection if you are a "woman at risk" - whether due to your job or your domestic life. Your personal security should be a high priority the same as your home security.

Now is the best time to set your goals and take action. By focusing on one goal at a time and being proactive, you can accomplish your 2009 goals. And what a great feeling you’ll have knowing you have taken care of protecting the things that matter the most - your family, your home, and YOU!

Good luck. May 2009 be the best year ever for you and your family!!!

Cheryl & Ken - Self-Defense With An Attitude

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Pepper Spray Self-Defense Protection - Don’t Leave Home Without It!

Tri-Pack Pepper Spray - Protection On Your keychain - In Your Car - In Your Home!

Pepper Sprays are just one form of non-lethal personal protection that you can carry for self-defense. If you are in a high risk job where you meet with strangers, work a late night shift, are a college student, or just want to know you have a way to protect yourself if you are ever attacked, then carrying some type of protection like Pepper Spray may be a good choice.

When you read the daily newspaper or watch the nightly news, you see more and more personal and home robberies, people being attacked when walking alone - especially during the holiday season - and violent carjackings. All of these crimes are becoming more prevalent. What is a person to do to protect themselves? You cannot totally rely upon the police to be there to protect you or even rely on other people who may be nearby. The responsibility for protecting yourself is up to YOU!

If you are going to carry some type of defense spray like the Pepper Spray or Mace Spray, you need to do a couple of things:

Believe it or not the right to protect ourselves with non-lethal protection devices is not always a RIGHT in some states, counties, or jurisdictions. You will need to check with local law enforcement officials to find out what the laws are in your area. I know it sounds crazy that a law-abiding person wants to protect themselves with only non-lethal protection against a violent attacker who may possess a lethal weapon, but that is how the law is set up. (And you wonder who the law is designed to protect).
When you purchase your pepper spray, you will want to do a few practice drills to make sure you know how to spray the device and how NOT to accidentally spray yourself. You’ll receive information with your unit that discusses how to use the product, but it is very minor information. My recommendation would be to get a very informative 32-page booklet entitled "The Facts About Defense Sprays And How To Use Them…" This booklet will give you precise information about how to use the device and if attacked - dropping an attacker to his knees. You can get this booklet and all types of personal protection at www.thepersonalsecuritystore.com.

The Tri-Pack Pepper Spray is an excellent package because it allows you to carry one of the spray units on your keychain. As you are walking to your car with keychain in hand, you are prepared. Always be alert and aware of your surroundings. Because this is the holiday season, we have a tendency is to be preoccupied on things other than our personal safety. For example, as you are leaving the mall with a bundle of Christmas packages trying to find your car in the parking lot, take a moment to look around and make sure no one is following you or that there aren’t strangers hanging around your car. Have your pepper spray in hand along with your keys and know what to do if attacked. Read more

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GPS Personal Tracking System-GPS Personal Locator For Personal Security

GPS Personal Tracking System, GPS Personal Locator From Valor System Gives You Personal Security And Peace Of Mind

The Valor System utilizes the latest in GPS tracking technology, wireless communication technology and the Internet to provide Automatic Vehicle Location System (AVLS) for most anywhere within the US and Canada. This innovative tool will protect your vehicle and the ones you love.

The Personal Tracking Device is an exceptional small unit, a portable tracking device unlike anything else available. The Personal Tracking Unit (PTU) allows consumers to remotely track the position of a loved one (teenagers, elderly parents), a pet, assets, or any other important item in real-time through the Internet or by placing a phone call. The PTU combines the technology of global positioning satellites (GPS), cellular phone communication, and the Internet in a compact device that upon request can transmit its exact location in seconds to give the end-user a complete solution.

In our effort to provide personal security solutions, we believe The Valor System will provide a way to stay in touch if you have an emergency situation but aren’t able to verify your exact location by providing an “SOS” feature, 2-way communication, one way listing, 24/7 tracking, and more.

Click the link below to learn more about how you can safely monitor elderly parents, teens, personal assets, fleet solutions, and so much more.

Personal Safety in the palm of your hand.

Remember, Stay Aware…Stay Alert…Stay Alive!!

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7-Holiday Safety Tips To Know When Leaving The Mall

This article was written back in April 2008 but I thought it was worth bringing back for the holiday shopping season. With all the excitement and holiday festivities it is easy to become unconscious to what is going on around us. The criminal perpetrator is looking for that one person who is not paying attention to either steal their purse or wallet, rip off their holiday packages, or violently attack them. Staying alert and aware this holiday season will help you maintain your overall safety - whether shopping, at home, or wherever you are.

Have you noticed how unconscious some people are (especially women - and young women) when they leave the shopping mall or even the grocery store? This holiday season - like none other - we should be especially observant and aware of all the people we come into contact with - especially at the malls, shopping center, and the parking lot areas with our holiday packages in hand.

Here are some quick safety tips for staying aware, alert, and safe when leaving the shopping mall and making your way out into the big parking lot areas where criminal types can hangout and just wait for their victims. I have highlighted in red additional information that a friend reader, Larry Kaminer, passed on to me. Thanks Larry. Please pass this information on to other women.

7-Safety Tips To Know When Leaving The Shopping Mall

1. Ladies don’t be talking away on your cell phone not paying attention to what’s around you. If you have your cell phone, ipod or mp3 player hooked to your head, you’re not really paying attention to what’s going on around you. And that really is important, especially if you are going to your car way in the middle of the parking area by yourself. This is exactly the type of person the predator is looking to attack. Be fully aware and totally alert as you walk to your car. Read more

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Black Friday-Holiday Shopping Safety Awareness Tips

The Holiday Shopping Season officially begins on Friday, 11-28-08 and is known as BLACK FRIDAY. That name alone should cause you to be a little more cautious as you make your way to the mall or favorite shopping area. Although most people are heading to the mall with the thought of being thankful for what they have and the ability to buy gifts for those they love, there are criminals lurking in and around the mall aiming to take what you have.

Here are a few Holiday Shopping Safety Awareness Tips to keep in mind as you do your shopping and enjoy the holiday festivities over the next twenty-eight days until Christmas. Keep your personal safety and security a priority whether you are at home, shopping, or traveling.

Stay Aware Of Your Surroundings At The Malls, Stores & Shopping Centers

If using an ATM at the mall, be especially vigilant and aware who may be around you. Try not to make large cash withdrawals. Remember the malls may be extremely crowded and this would be an excellent time for a criminal to catch you off-guard and grab your cash.
Shop during the daylight hours whenever you can. If shopping at night, try to go with another person. If shopping alone and leaving the mall late at night, ask a security officer to accompany you to your car.
Always choose a bank with an ATM located in a highly visible, well-lit area. If you notice anyone suspicious approaching, cancel your transaction and leave.
Avoid using ATM’s where you must go inside the ATM area unless you are with others. This leaves you highly vulnerable to a criminal attack. Use the drive-up ATM whenever possible.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Don’t advertise large rolls of money in public. You don’t know who may be watching.
Be sure when you leave your vehicle that you lock your doors and keep windows closed. If you have an alarm on your vehicle, use it.
Even though you may be rushed and have a thousand things on your mind, stay alert to your surroundings.
Don’t leave valuable items inside your car that are visible to others. Place packages in the trunk of your car.
Avoid carrying too many packages that may make you a target. Make regular trips to your car to drop off packages.
Keep your purse tucked close to your body at all times. Don’t let it dangle from your shoulder as this may be a perfect setup for a purse-snatcher.
For men – carry wallets in front pocket rather than back pocket or jacket. Thieves are looking for easy targets as they move through the crowded malls.
Park only in well-lit parking areas and as close to a mall or store entrance as you can. Don’t settle for an isolated parking spot just because you’re in a hurry. Hold out for a safe spot to open up.
As you walk through parking lots, make sure you are aware of your surroundings and walk with authority. Don’t look like a victim.
Don’t be talking on your cell phone as you leave the mall walking to your car. You need to pay close attention to your surroundings and anyone who looks suspicious.
Approach your car with car keys in hand and survey the exterior and interior of your vehicle before entering. Place your packages in the trunk all the while aware of anyone who may be nearby or approaching you.
Don’t get into your car if you are being followed or are suspicious of anyone standing near your car. If so, return to the mall or store or where there are other people. Ask for store security assistance.
Beware alert and aware of strangers who may be approaching you for whatever reason. At this time of year there are “scammers” trying various methods to distract you with the intention of taking your money and belongings.
Carry some type of personal protection device like a Taser C2, Pepper Spray, Mace, or a Stun Gun. Your safety and those of your family members should be a priority. If a criminal attacks you for your purse or packages, give him your belongings. Your life is more important! If he tries to hurt you or a loved one, use your personal protection to protect yourself and those with you.

Have a wonderful Holiday Season and remember, Stay Aware…Stay Alert…Stay Alive!!

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Warning - Criminals Advocate Gun Control - For You Only!!

HERE’S TO THE HOME INVADER-RAPIST-ATTACKER WHO WANTS GUN CONTROL

I received this video today and it is pretty clear that criminals are all in favor of GunControl — FOR EVERYONE EXCEPT THEMSELVES. This video will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up.

As a law-abiding citizen, if the Government took your gun(s) away, the only ones who would still have guns are the violent criminals. And the last thing we need is to let these criminals take charge.

Criminals will always have some kind of lethal firearm/weapon to do their dirty criminal deeds with. Everyday citizens needs to be able to protect themselves, their family, and their homes.

Courtesy of Antiprise-Criminals 4 Gun Control 1-Home Invasion

Protect your home and family by having an impenetrable home perimeter and security system, keep non-lethal personal protection like Taser C2, Stun Guns, Pepper Spray, or Mace in your home, in your purse, in your car, on your keychain, and develope and maintain a strong self-defense attitude and awareness so you know how to protect and defend yourself.

If circumstances warrant and you decide to purchase and carry a firearm for protection - be sure to get thoroughly trained and be well-prepared to use it if attacked by some low-life punk as seen in this video.

Remember, Stay Aware…Stay Alert…Stay Alive!!

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