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    <title>Non-Lethal Self Defense and Personal Security</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/" />
    <link rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/atom.xml" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008-03-15:/blog//1</id>
    <updated>2008-05-24T01:35:53Z</updated>
    <subtitle>News, Events, Education, Tips and Reviews on Non-Lethal Self Defense.</subtitle>
    <generator uri="http://www.sixapart.com/movabletype/">Movable Type Personal 4.1</generator>

<entry>
    <title>Carjacking Tips</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/carjacking-tips.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.17</id>

    <published>2008-05-24T01:07:05Z</published>
    <updated>2008-05-24T01:35:53Z</updated>

    <summary><![CDATA[ Carjacking of parked vehicles depends on the car owner being inattentive to their surroundings. Carjackers, like street robbers, prefer the element of surprise.&nbsp; Most victims say they never saw the carjacker until they appeared at their car door. To...]]></summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
    <category term="carjacking" label="carjacking" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[

<span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><img alt="carjacking.jpg" src="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/23/carjacking.jpg" class="mt-image-left" style="margin: 0pt 20px 20px 0pt; float: left;" height="261" width="400" /></span><p class="MsoPlainText"><br /></p><p class="MsoPlainText"><br /></p><p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Carjacking
of parked vehicles depends on the car owner being inattentive to their
surroundings. <br /></span></p><p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Carjackers, like street robbers, prefer the element of
surprise.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Most victims say they never
saw the carjacker until they appeared at their car door. To reduce your risk of
being carjacked, we have listed some common sense steps below: <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p><p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Always
park in well-lighted areas, if you plan to arrive/leave after dark <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Don't
park in isolated or visually obstructed areas near walls or heavy foliage <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Use
valet parking or an attended garage, if you're a woman driving alone <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">As
you walk to your car be alert to suspicious persons sitting in cars <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Ask
for a security escort if you are alone at a shopping center <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Watch
out for young males loitering in the area (handing out flyers, etc) <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
someone tries to approach, change direction or run to a busy store <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Follow
your instincts if they tell you to walk/run away to a busy place <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">As
you approach your vehicle, look under, around, and inside your car <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
safe, open the door, enter quickly, and lock the doors <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Don't
be a target by turning your back while loading packages into the car <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Make
it your habit to always start your car and drive away immediately <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Teach
and practice with your children to enter and exit the car quickly <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">In
the city, always drive with your car doors locked and windows rolled up <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">When
stopped in traffic, leave room to maneuver and escape, if necessary <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you are bumped in traffic, by young males, be suspicious of the accident <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Wave
to follow, and drive to a gas station or busy place before getting out <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you are ever confronted by an armed carjacker don't resist <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Give
up your keys or money if demanded without resistance <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Don't
argue, fight or chase the robber.<span style="">&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>You
can be seriously injured <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Never
agree to be kidnapped.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Drop the cars
keys and run and scream for help <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you are forced to drive, consider crashing your car near a busy intersection so
bystanders can come to your aid and call the police <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Call
the police immediately to report the crime and provide detailed information.&nbsp; Be sure to carry&nbsp; a <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/">Stun Gun</a>, <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser">TASER</a> or <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/pepper-spray">Pepper Spray</a> to make sure you have a first line of <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=2">self defense</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

 ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>ATM Security</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/atm-security.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.16</id>

    <published>2008-05-18T21:32:39Z</published>
    <updated>2008-05-18T21:42:16Z</updated>

    <summary><![CDATA[ ATM cash machines have been incorporated in our way of life.&nbsp; They offer a real convenience to those on the run but at the same time offer an element of risk.&nbsp; Using an ATM machine safely requires awareness and...]]></summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Safety &amp; Security" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="atm" label="ATM" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[

<span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><img alt="atm_robbers.jpg" src="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/18/negro_atm_robbers.jpg" class="mt-image-left" style="margin: 0pt 20px 20px 0pt; float: left;" height="171" width="227" /></span><p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">ATM
cash machines have been incorporated in our way of life.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>They offer a real convenience to those on the
run but at the same time offer an element of risk.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Using an ATM machine safely requires
awareness and a little planning.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Just
because an ATM machine is open and available 24-hours a day doesn't mean it is
safe to use it.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Most ATM robberies occur
at night between <st1:time hour="20" minute="0" w:st="on">8:00 PM</st1:time>
and <st1:time hour="0" minute="0" w:st="on">midnight</st1:time>.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>ATM robbers are usually males under 25 years
of age and most work alone.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>ATM robbers
usually position themselves nearby waiting for a victim to approach and
withdraw cash.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Most ATM robbery victims
are women and were alone when robbed.<span style="">&nbsp;
</span>Most claim that they never saw the robber coming.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Most ATM robbers used a gun or claimed to
have a concealed weapon when confronting the victim and demanding their cash.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you or your family members use ATM cash machines on a regular basis, here are
some tips that can make the process a little safer: <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Use
only ATM machines in well-lighted, high-traffic areas.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Don't use ATM machines that are remote or
hidden such as being located behind buildings, behind pillars, walls, or away
from public view.<span style="">&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Beware of obvious
hiding places like shrubbery or overgrown trees.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>ATM robbers like to have the element of
surprise and no witnesses.<span style="">&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Robbers like
good escape routes like nearby freeway on-ramps or high speed thoroughfares.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Choose
an ATM that looks and 'feels' safer, even if it is a couple of miles out of the
way.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Try and limit your use to daylight
hours.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Take someone with you after
hours, if you can.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>When you drive up to
an ATM location, scan the area for any suspicious persons.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>If you see anyone suspicious standing nearby
or sitting in a car, drive away.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>When
you approach an ATM on foot be prepared and have your access card ready.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Memorize your personal PIN number to prevent
loss and speed the transaction.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>After
inserting your card and your PIN number keep an eye out behind you.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Never accept an offer to help or request for
help from a suspicious male ahead of you at the machine.<span style="">&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>If anyone suspicious or seemingly dangerous
approaches terminate your transaction and leave immediately, even if it means
running away and leaving your ATM card in the machine.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>First, tell the suspicious male in a loud,
firm voice to "back-off" and leave you alone.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>This is designed to startle the person and
give you time to flee, if appropriate.<span style="">&nbsp;
</span>When you receive cash from the machine put it away immediately, extract
your card, and walk away.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you use your car at a drive-thru ATM machine the same rules apply.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Keep the car in gear, with your foot firmly
on the brake, while using the ATM machine.<span style="">&nbsp;
</span>Keep a close eye on your rear and side view mirrors during the transaction.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Robbers almost always approach from the rear
on the drivers side.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>If you see anyone
approaching, drive off even if it means leaving your ATM card behind.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>If you are confronted by an armed robber,
just give up your money without argument.<span style="">&nbsp;
</span>The cash is not worth serious injury or death.<span style="">&nbsp; </span>Get to a safe place and call the police
immediately.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
lights around the ATM are not working, don't use that machine <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Avoid
ATM machines adjacent to obvious hiding places <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Have
your card ready and leave quickly, not counting your cash in public <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Beware
of offers for help from strangers during an ATM transaction<span style="">&nbsp; </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Don't
fight with or attempt to follow the robber <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Drive
or walk to a safe place and immediately call the police <o:p></o:p></span></p>

 ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Rape Prevention</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/rape-prevention.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.15</id>

    <published>2008-05-16T02:49:45Z</published>
    <updated>2008-05-16T02:57:10Z</updated>

    <summary><![CDATA[ If you are in immediate danger of being raped, here are some things that you can do. &nbsp; Make a loud noise - Carry a whistle or scream "police" to attract attention &nbsp; Run - Only run if there...]]></summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Women&apos;s Safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="rape" label="RAPE" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[



<span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><a href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/15/rape-prevent.html" onclick="window.open('http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/15/rape-prevent.html','popup','width=504,height=361,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/15/rape-prevent-thumb-250x179.jpg" alt="rape-prevent.jpg" class="mt-image-right" style="margin: 0pt 0pt 20px 20px; float: right;" height="179" width="250" /></a></span><p class="MsoPlainText"><i><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you are in immediate danger of being raped, here are some things that you can
do. <o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></b></i></p>



<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Make
a loud noise</span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"> -
Carry a whistle or scream "police" to attract attention <o:p></o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></b></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Run</span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"> - Only run if there is somewhere safe
to run to. If there is no where to go you may aggravate the assailant further
by running <o:p></o:p></span></p>





<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Stall</span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"> - Speak calmly and rationally. Try not
to plead, cry or show that you're scared, this may be the reaction that he's
going for. <o:p></o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></b></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Urinate
or vomit</span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"> - Do anything you can to
repulse the assailant. Tell him that you have a STD or AIDS. <o:p></o:p></span></p>





<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Fight</span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"> - Women who resist attacks and act
quickly are less likely to be raped, than those who are passive. The optimum
time to react is in the first 20 seconds when the body releases chemicals in
the blood that help to put up a fight. Be cautious if he has a weapon. <o:p></o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></b></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Keep
alert</span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"> - Even though it will be
difficult, try to pay attention to as many details as possible, so that you can
identify your assailant. <o:p></o:p></span></p>





<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Get
help</span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"> - Call <st1:date month="9" day="1" year="2001" w:st="on">9-1-1</st1:date> as soon as possible. Police are
becoming more willing to help victims of rape. You are not obligated to press
charges or go to court. <o:p></o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></b></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Collect
evidence </span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">- Do not bathe, shower, or
douche. If you change clothes, put the clothes you were raped in into a bag and
seal it. <o:p></o:p></span></p>



<p class="MsoPlainText"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Tell
someone</span></b><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"> - Call the police, rape
crisis counselor, telephone operator, friend. It is very important that someone
knows and that it is not kept a secret.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

 ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Internet Buying Security and Safety</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/internet-buying-security-and-s.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.14</id>

    <published>2008-05-16T02:44:45Z</published>
    <updated>2008-05-16T03:00:16Z</updated>

    <summary><![CDATA[ ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Despite these many concerns, some now argue that it is actually safer to buy online than buying over the phone or handing your credit card over to someone in a shop. This is because if the online payment...]]></summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
    <category term="internetsafety" label="internet safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--></p><span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><a href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/15/system_lock.gif"><img alt="system_lock.gif" src="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/15/system_lock-thumb-250x187.gif" class="mt-image-left" style="margin: 0pt 20px 20px 0pt; float: left;" height="187" width="250" /></a></span><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Despite
these many concerns, some now argue that it is actually safer to buy online
than buying over the phone or handing your credit card over to someone in a
shop. This is because if the online payment is handled properly your banking
details will be "encrypted", which means they cannot be viewed by
anyone other than those handling the transaction - usually the banks.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you're still unsure, Card Watch, the UK banking group that works with the
police and retailers to stop credit card fraud, offer the following "top
ten tips" when buying online:<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Make
sure your web-browser (that's the software that you use to view websites, most
commonly Internet Explorer or Netscape) is set to the highest level of security
notification and monitoring. These options are not always automatically
activated when your computer is set-up, so check your manual or the
"Help" option.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Check
you are using a recent version of your web-browser as they often include better
security features - up-to-date versions can be downloaded free from the
Microsoft or Netscape websites. If you have a different browser or use on-line
services such as AOL or CompuServe, contact your ISP (Internet Service
Provider) or software supplier to find out how to activate their security features.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Before
purchasing from a website, make a record of the retailer's contact details,
including a street address and landline phone number. If these details are not
available on the website, consider going elsewhere to buy, do not rely on the
e-mail address alone.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Do
not enter personal details unless the security icon is displayed (this is a
small padlock that normally appears at the bottom of your browser when you
begin your transaction over the Internet). You can click on the padlock to see
if the retailer has an encryption certificate. This should explain the type and
extent of security and encryption it uses. Only use companies that have an
encryption certificate and use secure transaction technology. The address of
the page where you enter personal details should also start https://.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you have any queries or concerns, telephone the company before giving them your
card details to reassure yourself that it is legitimate.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Print
out your order and consider keeping copies of the retailer's terms and conditions
and returns policy. Be aware that there may well be additional charges such as
postage and VAT. When buying from overseas always err on the side of caution
and remember that it may be difficult to seek redress if problems arise.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Check
statements from your bank or card issuer carefully as soon as you receive them.
Raise any discrepancies with the retailer concerned in the first instance. If
you find any transaction on your statement that you are certain you did not
make, contact your card issuer immediately.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Ensure
that you are fully aware of any payment commitments you are entering into,
including whether you are instructing a single payment or a series of payments.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Never
disclose your card's PIN number to anyone, including people claiming to be from
your bank or the police, and never write it down or send it over the Internet.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you have any doubts about using your card, find an]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Kids Safety</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/05/kids-safety.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.13</id>

    <published>2008-05-14T13:48:32Z</published>
    <updated>2008-05-14T13:50:07Z</updated>

    <summary>You&apos;ve seen it in movies: A girl walks through an isolated parking garage. Suddenly, an evil-looking guy jumps out from behind an SUV. Girl jabs bad guy in the eyes with her keys -- or maybe she kicks him in...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Safety &amp; Security" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="childsafety" label="child safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="kidsafety" label="kid safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">You've seen it in movies: A girl walks through an isolated parking garage. Suddenly, an evil-looking guy jumps out from behind an SUV. Girl jabs bad guy in the eyes with her keys -- or maybe she kicks him in a certain sensitive place. Either way, while he's squirming, she leaps into her car and speeds to safety.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">That's the movies. Here's the real-life action replay: When the girl goes to jab or kick the guy, he knows what's coming and grabs her arm (or leg), pulling her off balance. Enraged by her attempt to fight back, he flips her onto the ground. Now she's in a bad place to defend herself -- and she can't run away.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Many people think of self-defense as a karate kick to the groin or jab in the eyes of an attacker. But self-defense actually means doing everything possible to <strong><em>avoid</em></strong> fighting someone who threatens or attacks you. Self-defense is all about using your smarts -- not your fists.</p><h3 style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal bold 1.2em/normal Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-bottom: -0.8em; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Use Your Head</h3><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">People (guys as well as girls) who are threatened and fight back "in self-defense" actually risk making a situation worse. The attacker, who is already edgy and pumped up on adrenaline -- and who knows what else -- may become even more angry and violent. The best way to handle any attack or threat of attack is to try to get away. This way, you're least likely to be injured.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">One way to avoid a potential attack before it happens is to trust your instincts. Your intuition, combined with your common sense, can help get you out of trouble. For example, if you're running alone on the school track and you suddenly feel like you're being watched, that could be your intuition telling you something. Your common sense would then tell you that it's a good idea to get back to where there are more people around.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; "><img alt="" class="right" src="http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/images_54026/T_self-defense1.gif" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; float: right; border-color: initial; clear: both; margin-left: 15px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; " /></p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Attackers aren't always strangers who jump out of dark alleys. Sadly, teens can be attacked by people they know. That's where another important self-defense skill comes into play. This skill is something self-defense experts and negotiators call <strong>de-escalation</strong>.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">De-escalating a situation means speaking or acting in a way that can prevent things from getting worse. The classic example of de-escalation is giving a robber your money rather than trying to fight or run. But de-escalation can work in other ways, too. For example, if someone harasses you when there's no one else around, you can de-escalate things by agreeing with him or her. You don't have to actually <em>believe</em> the taunts, of course, you're just using words to get you out of a tight spot. Then you can redirect the bully's focus ("Oops, I just heard the bell for third period"), and calmly walk away from the situation.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Something as simple as not losing your temper can de-escalate a situation. Learn how to manage your own anger effectively so that you can talk or walk away without using your fists or weapons.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Although de-escalation won't always work, it can only help matters if you remain calm and don't give the would-be attacker any extra ammunition. Whether it's a stranger or someone you thought you could trust, saying and doing things that don't threaten your attacker can give you some control.</p><h3 style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal bold 1.2em/normal Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-bottom: -0.8em; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Reduce Your Risks</h3><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Another part of self-defense is doing things that can help you stay safe. Here are some tips from the National Crime Prevention Council and other experts:</p><ul class="kh_longline_list" style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1em; list-style-type: disc; background-position: initial initial; "><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">Understand your surroundings. Walk or hang out in areas that are open, well lit, and well traveled. Become familiar with the buildings, parking lots, parks, and other places you walk. Pay particular attention to places where someone could hide -- such as stairways and bushes.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">Avoid shortcuts that take you through isolated areas.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">If you're going out at night, travel in a group.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">Make sure your friends and parents know your daily schedule (classes, sports practice, club meetings, etc.). If you go on a date or with friends for an after-game snack, let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">Check out hangouts. Do they look safe? Are you comfortable being there? Ask yourself if the people around you seem to share your views on fun activities -- if you think they're being reckless, move on.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">Be sure your body language shows a sense of confidence. Look like you know where you're going and act alert.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">When riding on public transportation, sit near the driver and stay awake. Attackers are looking for vulnerable targets.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">Carry a cell phone if possible. Make sure it's programmed with your parents' phone number.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 1.5em; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-position: initial initial; ">Be willing to report crimes in your neighborhood and school to the police.</li></ul><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; "><img alt="" class="right" src="http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/images_54026/T_self-defense3.gif" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; float: right; border-color: initial; clear: both; margin-left: 15px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; " /></p><h3 style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal bold 1.2em/normal Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-bottom: -0.8em; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Take a Self-Defense Class</h3><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">The best way -- in fact the only way -- to prepare yourself to fight off an attacker is to take a self-defense class. We'd love to give you all the right moves in an article, but some things you just have to learn in person.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">A good self-defense class can teach you how to size up a situation and decide what you should do. Self-defense classes can also teach special techniques for breaking an attacker's grasp and other things you can do to get away. For example, attackers usually anticipate how their victim might react -- that kick to the groin or jab to the eyes, for instance. A good self-defense class can teach you ways to surprise your attacker and catch him or her off guard.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; "><img alt="" class="right" src="http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/images_54026/T_self-defense2.gif" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; float: right; border-color: initial; clear: both; margin-left: 15px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; " /></p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">One of the best things people take away from self-defense classes is self-confidence. The last thing you want to be thinking about during an attack is, "Can I really pull this self-defense tactic off?" It's much easier to take action in an emergency if you've already had a few dry runs.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">A self-defense class should give you a chance to practice your moves. If you take a class with a friend, you can continue practicing on each other to keep the moves fresh in your mind long after the class is over.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Check out your local YMCA, community hospital, or community center for classes. If they don't have them, they may be able to tell you who does. Your PE teacher or school counselor may also be a great resource.</p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; ">Reviewed by: <a href="http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/misc/reviewers.html" style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 100%/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 121, 159); text-decoration: none; background-position: initial initial; ">Steven Dowshen, MD, and Barbara P. Homeier, MD</a></p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; "><a href="http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/self_defense.html">http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/self_defense.html</a></p><p style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-transform: none; font: normal normal normal 1em/1.35em Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; "><br /></p></span> ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>1 in 6 Women Will Be RAPED? That means you might be next!</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/1-in-6-women-will-be-raped-tha.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.12</id>

    <published>2008-04-29T15:17:41Z</published>
    <updated>2008-04-29T15:33:35Z</updated>

    <summary>Women in college 40% more likely to become a victim of sexual assault (thats 1 in 4)!  Here are some quick facts - don&apos;t become a victim - get protection now!1 out of every 6 American women have been the victims...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Self Defense" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
        <category term="Women&apos;s Safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="rape" label="RAPE" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="selfdefensebepreparedwithstungunorpepperspray" label="Self Defense - Be Prepared with Stun Gun or Pepper Spray" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="sexualassault" label="Sexual Assault" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="womensafety" label="Women Safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: georgia; line-height: 15px; "><h4 style="color: black; font-size: 17px; font-weight: bold; ">Women in college 40% more likely to become a victim of sexual assault (thats 1 in 4)!  Here are some quick facts - don't become a victim - <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com">get protection now</a>!</h4><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "></p><div class="figure-left" style="float: left; text-align: center; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; "><img src="http://www.rainn.org/images/get-information/Statistics/1-in-6%20copy.jpg" alt="1in6 graphic" style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; " /></div><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">1 out of every 6 American women</strong> have been the victims of an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime (14.8% completed rape; 2.8% attempted rape).</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">17.7 million American women</strong> have been victims of attempted or completed rape.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">9 of every 10</strong> rape victims were female in 2003.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; ">While about <strong style="font-weight: bold; ">80% of all victims are white,</strong> minorities are somewhat more likely to be attacked.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-variant: small-caps; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px; ">Lifetime rate of rape /attempted rape for women by race:</span></p><ul style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">All women: 17.6%</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">White women: 17.7%</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Black women: 18.8%</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Asian Pacific Islander women: 6.8%</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">American Indian/Alaskan women: 34.1%</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Mixed race women: 24.4%</li></ul><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "></p><h4 style="color: black; font-size: 17px; font-weight: bold; ">Men</h4><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; ">About <strong style="font-weight: bold; ">3% of American men</strong> -- or <strong style="font-weight: bold; ">1 in 33 </strong>-- have experienced an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime.</p><ul style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">In 2003, 1 in every ten rape victims were male.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">2.78 million men in the U.S. have been victims of sexual assault or rape.</li></ul><h4 style="color: black; font-size: 17px; font-weight: bold; ">Children</h4><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; ">15% of sexual assault and rape victims are <strong style="font-weight: bold; ">under age 12.</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">29% are age 12-17.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">44% are under age 18.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">80% are under age 30.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">12-34 are the highest risk years.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Girls ages 16-19 are 4 times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault.</li></ul><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">7% of girls in grades 5-8</strong> and 12% of girls in grades 9-12 said they had been sexually abused.</p><ul style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">3% of boys grades 5-8 and 5% of boys in grades 9-12 said they had been sexually abused.</li></ul><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; ">In 1995, local child protection service agencies identified <strong style="font-weight: bold; ">126,000 children</strong> who were victims of either substantiated or indicated sexual abuse.</p><ul style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Of these, 75% were girls.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Nearly 30% of child victims were between the age of 4 and 7.</li></ul><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">93% of juvenile</strong> sexual assault victims know their attacker.</p><ul style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">34.2% of attackers were family members.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">58.7% were acquaintances.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Only 7% of the perpetrators were strangers to the victim.</li></ul><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 3); font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 3); font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px; ">Effects of Rape</span></p><h4 style="color: black; font-size: 17px; font-weight: bold; ">Victims of sexual assault are:</h4><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">3 times</strong> more likely to suffer from depression.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">6 times</strong> more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">13 times</strong> more likely to abuse alcohol.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">26 times</strong> more likely to abuse drugs.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">4 times</strong> more likely to contemplate suicide.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><br /></p><h4 style="color: black; font-size: 17px; font-weight: bold; ">Pregnancies Resulting from Rape</h4><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; ">In 2004-2005, 64,080 women were raped. According to medical reports, the incidence of pregnancy for one-time unprotected sexual intercourse is 5%. By applying the pregnancy rate to 64,080 women, RAINN estimates that there were <strong style="font-weight: bold; ">3,204 pregnancies</strong> as a result of rape during that period.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "></p><h5 style="color: black; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; font-variant: small-caps; ">This calculation does not account for the following factors which could lower the actual number of pregnancies:</h5><ul style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Rape, as defined by the NCVS, is forced sexual intercourse. Forced sexual intercourse means vaginal, oral, or anal penetration by offender(s). This category includes incidents where the penetration is from a foreign object such as a bottle. Certain types of rape under this definition cannot cause pregnancy.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Some victims of rape may be utilizing birth control methods, such as the pill, which will prevent pregnancy.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Some rapists may wear condoms in an effort to avoid DNA detection.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Vicims of rape may not be able to become pregnant for medical or age-related reasons.</li></ul><h5 style="color: black; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; font-variant: small-caps; ">This calculation does not account for the following factors which could raise the actual number of pregnancies:</h5><ul style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Medical estimates of a 5% pregnancy rate are for one-time, unprotected sexual intercourse. Some victimizations may include multiple incidents of intercourse.</li><li style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">Because of methodology, NCVS does not measure the victimization of Americans age 12 or younger. Rapes of these young people could results in pregnancies not accounted for in RAINN's estimates.</li></ul><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "></p><hr class="thin" style="height: 1px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: gray; border-right-color: gray; border-bottom-color: gray; border-left-color: gray; "><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "></p><h5 style="color: black; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; font-variant: small-caps; ">References</h5><h6 style="color: black; font-size: 10px; font-weight: bold; "><ol style="margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 2em; "><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; "><em style="font-style: italic; ">1998 Commonwealth Fund Study of the Health of Adolescent Boys.</em> 1998.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; "><em style="font-style: italic; ">1998 Commonwealth Fund Survey of the Health of Adolescent Girls.</em> 1998.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">National Institute of Justice &amp; Centers for Disease Control &amp; Prevention. <em style="font-style: italic; ">Prevalence, Incidence and Consequences of Violence Against Women Survey.</em> 1998.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; "><em style="font-style: italic; ">1997 Sex Offense and Offenders Study. 1997.</em></li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics. <em style="font-style: italic; ">2000 Sexual Assault of Young Children as Reported to Law Enforcement.</em> 2000.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">U.S. Department of Health &amp; Human Services, Administration for Children and Families. <em style="font-style: italic; ">1995 Child Maltreatment Study. 1995</em></li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">U.S. Department of Justice. <em style="font-style: italic; ">2005 National Crime Victimization Study</em>. 2005.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">U.S. Department of Justice. <em style="font-style: italic; ">2003 National Crime Victimization Survey.</em> 2003.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">U.S. Department of Justice. <em style="font-style: italic; ">2000 National Crime Victimization Study.</em> 2000.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">U.S. Department of Justice. <em style="font-style: italic; ">1999 National Crime Victimization Study.</em> 1999.</li><li style="list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; margin-bottom: 5px; ">U.S. Department of Justice.</li></ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.rainn.org">All figures above come from RAINN - help support RAINN</a>.  </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com">Get protection now and don't become a victim - simple pepper spray or stun gun could mean the difference between becoming a another statistics or not - Stinger Defense Non-Lethal Self Defense.</a></span></div></h6></span> ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Crime is a Reality Everywhere! Nicole Kidman.</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/crime-is-a-reality-everywhere.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.11</id>

    <published>2008-04-29T04:43:33Z</published>
    <updated>2008-04-29T05:03:17Z</updated>

    <summary>Oscar winner NICOLE KIDMAN is trying to raise awareness of violence against women. The actress, who is the goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) - helped launch the Say No to Violence against Women campaign....</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Women&apos;s Safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="violencewomen" label="Violence Women" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><img alt="nicole_kidman.jpg" src="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/28/nicole_kidman.jpg" class="mt-image-right" style="margin: 0pt 0pt 20px 20px; float: right;" height="179" width="115" /></span>Oscar winner NICOLE KIDMAN is trying to raise awareness of violence
against women. The actress, who is the goodwill ambassador for the
United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) - helped launch the
Say No to Violence against Women campaign. She says, "<strong>One in three women will encounter violence</strong>
in some way, shape or form against them in their lifetime. So much of
it is shrouded in silence. What we are trying to do is say this is
something that needs to be addressed. A lot of it is taking away the
stigma, creating awareness and not making it a silent pandemic. I want
to encourage people of all nations to unite behind our call to end
violence against women.<br /><br /><p><span class="bodytextgray">RAPES</span>...There were 94,635 reported
rapes in 2004. The highest percentage of rape is in the Northeast. July
is when the greatest number of rapes occur.</p>
      <p align="left"><span class="bodytextgray">ROBBERIES</span>...There were 401,326 robberies in 2004. Highest percentage 
        of these (38%) were in the South. 42% of the robberies occurred on the 
        streets, 14% occurred in homes.</p>
      <p align="left"><span class="bodytextgray">ASSAULT</span>...There were 854,911 incidents of aggravated assault. Firearms 
        were used for 19.3% of the assaults, knives or cutting instruments 18.6%, 
        other weapons (clubs, blunt objects, etc.) 35.6% and personal weapons 
        (hands, fists, feet, etc.) accounted for 26.6% of the assaults.</p>
      <p align="left"><span class="bodytextgray">CAR JACKINGS</span>...There are around 38,000 car jackings each year. 74% of the 
        victims faced a weapon. About 63% of carjacking incidents occurred within 
        5 miles of the victim's home, including 17% that occurred at or near the 
        home...sometimes in their own driveway. Only 4% occurred more than 50 
        miles from the victim's home.<br /></p><br /> ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>When you go on Vaction - Safety Tips</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/when-you-go-on-vaction-safety.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.10</id>

    <published>2008-04-26T00:58:41Z</published>
    <updated>2008-04-26T01:08:33Z</updated>

    <summary><![CDATA[·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; One of the times your home is most vulnerable is when it is left empty for an extended period of time. Darkened windows, mail or newspapers collecting and closed windows in hotter weather all advertise your absence to a...]]></summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Safety &amp; Security" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="safetytips" label="safety tips" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><img alt="AB20694~Beach-Vacation-Posters.jpg" src="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/25/AB20694%7EBeach-Vacation-Posters.jpg" class="mt-image-left" style="margin: 0pt 20px 20px 0pt; float: left;" height="304" width="400" /></span><p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">One
of the times your home is most vulnerable is when it is left empty for an
extended period of time. Darkened windows, mail or newspapers collecting and
closed windows in hotter weather all advertise your absence to a potential
burglar.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">The
best protection for your apartment during your absence is to have a house
sitter. A friend you trust staying at your house can take care of your pets
and/or plants in addition to making sure the house is inhabited.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Have
a neighbor check on your apartment while you're away -- turning on lights,
radios or TVs and opening and closing curtains will give your apartment the
appearance of someone home.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you don't have a friend or neighbor to housesit or check your apartment while
you're away -- perhaps even if you do -- you should keep not only lights but a
TV or radio on a timer. If you're like me and have your TV on almost all the
time you're home [NOTE: I don't watch it, it's just background noise.], the
absence of the sound and that glowing light in the windows announces that
you're not there.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Make
sure whoever is checking your apartment while you're away knows how to work
your alarm system and who to call in case of a problem.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Unless
you have a house sitter, stop your mail and any newspaper or other delivery.
Nothing announces an empty apartment better than a stack of newspapers or an
overflowing mailbox. Ask a nearby neighbor to pick up any packages delivered
while you're gone.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">If
you have a garden or plants on your balcony, make sure someone is watering the
plants regularly or put the plants where they can't be seen. Plants slowly
dying due to lack of water may announce your absence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Check
your lease. Many landlords require that you notify them if your apartment is
going to be left empty for any period of time (this is so they can enter in
case of emergency even if they can't reach you). If you've got a house sitter
this isn't necessary.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

 <div><br /></div>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>14th Annual Taking Steps Walkathon</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/14th-annual-taking-steps-walka.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerd.nexcess.net,2008:/blog//1.9</id>

    <published>2008-04-23T15:09:43Z</published>
    <updated>2008-04-23T15:30:40Z</updated>

    <summary>Date: Sunday, April 27, 2008Location: Institute Park, Worcester, MATime: 11:00amDetails: Taking Steps is a 5K Walkathon that supports survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence in Worcester County and promotes prevention of violence against women and children. Funds raised are shared among organizations within...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Events" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="walkathon5k" label="Walkathon 5K" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<div class="figure-left" style="float: left; text-align: center; margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.takingsteps.org/" target="_blank"><img src="http://rainn.org/images/news-room/Calendar-of-Events/takingsteps.jpg" alt="Taking Steps" style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; " /></a></div><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Date:</strong> Sunday, April 27, 2008<br /><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Location:</strong> Institute Park, Worcester, MA<br /><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Time:</strong> 11:00am<br /><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Details:</strong> Taking Steps is a 5K Walkathon that supports survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence in Worcester County and promotes prevention of violence against women and children. Funds raised are shared among organizations within central Massachusetts that are in the forefront of providing advocacy, counseling, shelter, safety and education. Your participation directly helps victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, their families, friends and communities.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; ">Fore more information, please visit: <a href="http://www.takingsteps.org/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 3); ">takingsteps.org.</a></p> ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>The 2008 Twin Cities RAINN Unlock the Silence Benefit</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/the-2008-twin-cities-rainn-unl.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerd.nexcess.net,2008:/blog//1.8</id>

    <published>2008-04-23T14:54:13Z</published>
    <updated>2008-04-23T15:29:06Z</updated>

    <summary>Tickets are SOLD OUT!Date: Saturday, April 26, 2008Time:5:30pm - PATRON/VIP Reception6:30pm - Cocktail Reception7:45pm - Dinner, Program and Live AuctionLocation: The Depot, Minneapolis, MNDetails: Benefit dinner with a live auction and musical performances byMichael Bublé and Martina McBride, with Master of Ceremonies Holly Robinson Peete. Proceeds benefit RAINN. Learn more...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Events" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="twincitiesrainnbenefit" label="Twin Cities RAINN Benefit" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: georgia; line-height: 15px; "><h4 style="color: black; font-size: 17px; font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px; ">Tickets are SOLD OUT!</span></h4><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><font size="4"><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Date:</strong> Saturday, April 26, 2008<br /><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Time:</strong>5:30pm - PATRON/VIP Reception<br />6:30pm - Cocktail Reception<br />7:45pm - Dinner, Program and Live Auction<br /><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Location:</strong><em style="font-style: italic; "> The Depot</em>, Minneapolis, MN<br /><strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Details:</strong> Benefit dinner with a live auction and musical performances by<strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Michael Bublé</strong> and <strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Martina McBride,</strong> with <em style="font-style: italic; ">Master of Ceremonies</em> <strong style="font-weight: bold; ">Holly Robinson Peete.</strong> Proceeds benefit RAINN. <a href="http://rainn.org/247" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 3); ">Learn more about RAINN's 24/7 Campaign.</a></font></p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;">Help support RAINN.org - they are a great charity that supports victims.  Here at Stinger Defense we donate 5% of net proceeds to RAINN annually.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></p></span><div align="center"><a href="http://rainn.org/about-rainn/events" target="_blank"> 
<img src="http://rainn.org/images/news-room/Calendar-of-Events/twin-cities-event" border="0" /></a></div>]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Sexual Assault</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/sexual-assault.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerd.nexcess.net,2008:/blog//1.6</id>

    <published>2008-04-19T03:51:56Z</published>
    <updated>2008-04-23T14:52:03Z</updated>

    <summary> An estimated 12.1 million women in the U.S. have been victims of Rape. At least 39% of these victims have been involved in more than one rape. An estimated 20% of teenage girls and young women have been involved...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Women&apos;s Safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="womensafety" label="Women Safety" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<div class="storycontent">
			<p>An estimated 12.1 million women in
the U.S. have been victims of Rape. At least 39% of these victims have
been involved in more than one rape. An estimated 20% of teenage girls
and young women have been involved in some type of dating violence. </p>
	<p>This
includes: Physical, emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse. While it is
important to address the needs of the victims of assault, it is equally
important to be prepared for stopping this sexual violence before it
begins. </p>
	<p>Shelly Neel - President of Stinger Defense LLC
</p>
	</div> ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Taser C2</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/taser-c2.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerdefense.net,2008:/blog//1.5</id>

    <published>2008-04-19T03:51:21Z</published>
    <updated>2008-04-24T20:02:59Z</updated>

    <summary>A review of the Taser C2 Stun Gun by Stinger Defense. The Taser C2 is one of the best stun guns we have seen. Unlike a regular stun gun in which direct contact must be made, the Taser C2 can...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Taser" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="taser" label="Taser" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<p>A review of the <a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser/taser-c2.html">Taser C2</a> Stun Gun by Stinger Defense.</p>
	<p>The
<a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser/taser-c2.html">Taser C2</a> is one of the best stun guns we have seen. Unlike a regular
stun gun in which direct contact must be made, the <a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser/taser-c2.html">Taser C2</a> can "stun"
your assailant from up to 15 feet away.<br />
It is easy to use and has features which prevents it's misuse by
criminals. In testing the <a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser/taser-c2.html">Taser C2 Stun gun</a> was more effective then our
1,000,000+ volt stun guns in putting a person down. In police studies
it has more instant incapacitation "take down power" then a 9mm handgun.</p>
	<p>It
also worked through normal clothing (the probes/barbs did not have to
make direct contact with the skin). However when wearing thick winter
clothing (t-shirt, thermals, sweater and thick winter jacket) it lost
its effectiveness. We figure this was about 2 inches of clothing and
that was about as much as one would ever wear in winter, so in real
world conditions the <a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser/">Taser Stun Guns</a> should have no problems in being
effective. </p>
	<p>The optional laser is not really an option. If
you are in a crisis, with the adrenaline flowing you will need the
laser so you will know exactly where to fire. If you are going to
purchase this get it with the laser - it is a must. PS - it can not be
fitted with a laser at a later time.</p>
	<p>Here at Stinger Defense we give the <a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser/taser-c2.html">Taser C2</a> the following:<br />
Effectiveness: A+<br />
Ease of Use: A+<br />
Value/Price: B- (<a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser/">$349.95 with Laser</a> - Replacement Cartridges about $25.00 each).<br />
Ease of Carry: B- (this item is large and suited more for a backup
located in the home, office or car. It is to big to really car on ones
person all day long unless you are a women with a large purse).</p>
	<p>Overall:
A- to A (my wife liked it a hair more then me). Both me and my wife
carry one of these - she keeps her in the front pocket of her purse
(remember you must be able to get to it fast and that is not in the
bottom of your purse) while I keep mine in the truck. I prefer to carry
a small stun gun in my pocket for daily use and mace on my key ring.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><span class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" style="display: inline;"><img alt="NewTaserC2-Big.jpg" src="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/24/NewTaserC2-Big.jpg" width="750" height="580" class="mt-image-center" style="text-align: center; display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px;" /></span></span></p><p><a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/taser/taser-c2.html">Buy Taser C2 with Laser Sights Now for Only $349.95</a></p> ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Be Prepared</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/2008/04/be-prepared.html" />
    <id>tag:stingerd.nexcess.net,2008:/blog//1.4</id>

    <published>2008-04-19T03:50:39Z</published>
    <updated>2008-04-23T16:43:07Z</updated>

    <summary> There are times in our life when will will need to use either lethal or non-lethal force. It is much easier to use non-lethal force since, you, the user will know you are not killing another living being. This...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Vice President</name>
        <uri>http://www.StingerDefense.com</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Self Defense" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="selfdefensebepreparedwithstungunorpepperspray" label="Self Defense - Be Prepared with Stun Gun or Pepper Spray" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-US" xml:base="http://stingerdefense.net/blog/">
        <![CDATA[<div class="storycontent">
			<p>There are times in our life when will
will need to use either lethal or non-lethal force. It is much easier
to use non-lethal force since, you, the user will know you are not
killing another living being. This allows us to react faster and not
hesitate at that critical moment. It's a proven fact that is very
natural to think twice when one understands they will be using deadly
force.</p>
	<p>Here in the Neel / Stinger Defense family we carry both
<a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns">stun guns</a> and <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/pepper-spray">pepper sprays</a> on our persons, as well as backups to those
items in our homes, office and cars.</p>
	<p>Be Prepared:<br /><a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns">
Stun Guns</a> and/or <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/pepper-spray">Pepper Sprays</a> should always be within reach under 1
second - not in the bottom of a purse, briefcase or backpack. It will
not help you when the time arrives if it is located there!</p>
	<p>I personally prefer a 3 step protection plan:</p>
	<p>1)  Observation (be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to your sixth sense).</p>
	<p>2)
Preparation - have a <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/pepper-spray/pepperspray.html">key chain pepper spray gun</a>, <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/stun-guns/cell-phone-stun-guns/pretender.html">cell phone stun gun</a> on a belt
clip, in a pants pocket, hand or suit jacket. Do not keep it somewhere
that you will have to look for it - it will be to late if you do. Then
get a backup for those items that you keep readily available in the
home, office and car - the cost is really insignificant compared to the
option of being a victim.</p>
	<p>3) The strut - walk with your head
and shoulders upright, chest out and with a focused stride. If you look
serious and confident it automatically make an assailant think twice
and look for the next victim. If they do chose to attack you - they
will soon find they picked the wrong victim if your prepared!</p>
	<p>For
as low as a hundred dollars per person one can have both <a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/pepper-spray">pepper spray</a>
and a <a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns">stun gun</a>, as well as a backup in the car. This is cheap;
considering it just might save your life and/or prevent you from
becoming a victim of sexual assault, rape or theft. </p>
	<p>Get
protection NOW for yourself, your spouse, your daughter/son,
girlfriend/boyfriend. Even if you chose to purchase your <a href="http://stingerdefense.com/stun-guns">stun gun</a> or
<a href="http://www.stingerdefense.com/pepper-spray">pepper spray</a> somewhere else I urge you to do it ASAP. It is only a
matter of time before your time will come (the statistics prove it),
then they will thank you or you will thank yourself - I promise!</p>
	<p>Nate Neel - Vice President of Stinger Defense LLC</p>
	<p>If
you cant afford protection now give us a call and we will see what we
can do - it's that important to our company and my family.
</p>
	</div> ]]>
        
    </content>
</entry>

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