Crimes have existed far longer than the laws that are designed to control and punish them. Over the years, communities have refined ways with which to fight crime. With self-awareness came the need for self-protection and the appearance of self defense products, if only to protect oneself from the physical harm associated with certain crimes. Today, personal protection products have come a long way; from the most cleverly disguised tools to gadgets using the latest technology. But can the presence and availability of these items deter crime or at best, discourage it?
Crimes and self defense products
The statistics are sobering enough: every 10 seconds, at least 3 crimes involving property occur. Every 15 to 20 seconds, a home gets burglarized. Dozens of crimes against persons occur every hour, attacks that very often involve physical assault. The fact is that majority of these crimes are preventable, if only the victims had enough knowledge, skills and access to a protection tool.
Self-defense products not only serve to stop an attacker, they are also effective for deterring any attacks. A home with a surveillance and alarm system, for example, is least likely to be considered an easy target for burglars than a house that doesn't have any kind of protection.
Many self defense products have also figured in helping solve crimes. Hidden cameras and other surveillance systems have helped record and monitor criminal activities, identify suspects and victims and help police in stopping and arresting the criminal.
Can self-defense products promote aggression?
Self defense products are designed to empower people and protect themselves, their loved ones and their property. These products are not meant to be used to initiate an attack; only to prevent, parry or deter.
Furthermore, many of these devices are restricted by state or federal laws. The use of tasers, tear gas and pepper sprays, for example, are limited for use by some laws. The stopping power of these products is also designed to ensure that they are used in non-lethal ways.
The Bottom line
Crime can and will exist with or without anyone owning or using self-defense products. The point here is, why bother allowing yourself to be victimized if, through the use of personal protection products, you could minimize the chances that you could be attacked or hurt? A simple defensive gadget can actually even help you survive an attack.
Furthermore, people who own and use self defense products are generally more confident. As a result, they are not viewed by would-be attackers as vulnerable or weak. Knowing that you can protect and defend yourself against an attack is often an effective means to curb crime. Quite simply, self-defense products make it difficult for crime to occur.
Steve Thibeault is an expert in self defense products. His company, TBO-TECH INC, has been providing quality self defense products such as stun guns and pepper sprays since the year 2000.