Today, there are many extremely effective home security systems on the market. How do you choose between them? There are whole-house security systems, as well as alarms designed to protect specific areas or entry points around the home. To select a good home security system, one needs to keep in mind the cost, features, design, and installation.

Costs vary widely among the available home security options. Some individual alarms are very inexpensive; many can be found for less than $20. On the other end of the spectrum, having a whole-house alarm installed can cost you a thousand dollars or more. Are such systems any more effective at detecting security concerns? Not necessarily. Although they do cost more, you must carefully consider whether there is any added benefit of choosing such a system.

Whole-house security systems may be the most comprehensive, but they are also the most complicated. Such systems must be installed by a technician, and they often require wiring throughout the home, making it difficult if not impossible to install such a system in your current home. On the other hand, a wireless security system makes use of modern wireless technologies to avoid the use of wires, making it much easier to install the alarms where you want them, rather than where it's feasible to run the wires.

Most door and window alarms, which work wirelessly, can be installed by anyone in minutes. They don't require much technical knowledge, and can be moved where they are needed, in contrast to the systems installed by technicians, which are there for the life of the home.

Some alarm systems will automatically send a signal to the local emergency responders. Although this can give you peace of mind, the truth is that a blaring home alarm of any type will be enough to make nearly all criminals turn and run. After all, they have no idea who will be coming to the sound of the alarm, and they definitely don't want to get caught in the act.

In addition to loud, beeping alarms, there are other home security systems that protect your home using other means. For example, security cameras offer a visual deterrent in addition to providing a record of activities on your property, criminal or otherwise. Alarms can be found for specific applications, such as protecting your swimming pool, or more general applications, such as detecting the opening of doors or windows.

Installing any security device will increase your peace of mind, but which one is best? What many people don't know is that there are many different types of security systems, providing many ways of protecting your home. The first step is to consider your priorities- do you want an expensive system? A comprehensive system? A system that is flexible, allowing you to add to it as your budget allows? Whole house alarms might seem like the best choice, because they are comprehensive and installed by a technician, but are they really? Individual alarms designed to protect certain areas of the home are a less expensive choice, and they offer you the flexibility to protect any area of the house and the convenience of installing the devices yourself.

You don't need security systems for your boat, right? Although boats might seem like a low security risk, they are actually at danger, whether docked or in the water near other boats or people. If you own a boat, it is important that you take the precautions to protect it, just like you would your home.

Your first way to protect your boat is by thoroughly investigating the marina or any other location where your boat is stored. Too many boat owners only consider storage areas in terms of the storage conditions, completely ignoring the security aspect. How good are the security systems? Are there security guards and cameras? Are identities checked before visitors are allowed access to the boats? Is the overall geographic area a safe one? Be aware of the surroundings, including any potential dangers. Whether your boat will only be docked there for a few nights, or you plan to leave it there all winter long, security should be one of your top priorities when selecting a marina or a boat storage location.

Use sturdy locks on all doors, lockers, and hatches. Remember, criminals around your boat aren't just looking to steal it – they may also be interested in the possessions you keep on board, from life vests to that expensive new GPS system you just installed. It is particularly important to consider the security of your motor, because these are frequently targeted by thieves who hang around boats.

Never leave the keys in the ignition, no matter where you are. This might seem like common sense, because you'd probably never think to do it with your car, but far too many people think nothing of leaving their keys in their boat, never imagining that someone would try to steal it when you're so close by.

Consider installing alarms on your boat. There are many different sensors and alarms designed for boat use. Another popular solution is to install simple door and window alarms on entry points to the boat, or pressure mats that sound an alarm when stepped on. Any of these alarms is very difficult to ignore, even if no one but the thief is in the immediate vicinity.

It is equally important to turn on the alarms while you're below deck as when you're away from the boat. What if someone enters the boat while you're below deck taking a nap? A loud beeping alarm will alert you to the stranger's presence immediately. If you'd like to check in on your boat while it's docked, consider installing security cameras that allow you to watch what's happening over the internet.

Finally, consider boat insurance, which will protect your boat and the items you keep on the boat in the event that either are stolen. Many boat owners try to put as little money as possible into boat maintenance and security, but it is important to protect your investment by taking the right security precautions. Too many boating enthusiasts don't think about alarming their boat or otherwise protecting it from harm until something happens to it.

When it comes to self defense, particularly at night, a flashlight is actually one of your best defenses. Tactical flashlights are commonly included on stun guns and other self defense devices. Some are contained in long, durable cases that are designed to be used like a self defense baton. Additionally, a flashlight can be carried with you even if you opt not to carry a self defense device, or have a device that does not include a flashlight. Here are a few of the many self defense uses of a tactical flashlight:

Distracting or temporarily blinding an assailant. This can give you valuable seconds in which to escape, although the effect is short-lived, so you should already be on the move by the time your flashlight beam hits his eyes. As soon as the light distracts him, either use your pepper spray, MACE, or stun gun to stop the attack, or turn and run to safety.

Calling attention to the situation. Many criminals rely on darkness for cover. Illuminating the attacker with your tactical flashlight might be enough to discourage the attack. It will also attract the attention of others in the area. This strategy should be used in combination with a personal alarm to create as much commotion as possible.

Investigating suspicious behavior. Darkness can often be a cloak for suspicious behavior, from car prowlers to vandals. Your flashlight can help you investigate the situation, although you should never confront a potential assailant unless your safety is in jeopardy.

Aiming your self defense device. It can be tricky to aim some self defense devices in the dark. An attached tactical light will provide enough light to enable you to aim the device effectively. Some devices, such as TASER devices, come with an LED light designed for this purpose. LED lights are surprisingly bright, often many times brighter than a conventional flashlight, so you don't need to worry about seeing clearly in the dark.

Lighting your way. In addition to keeping you safe against an attacker, your flashlight can also keep you safe from trips and falls at night. Use it when walking in a dark parking lot or poorly lit street. The bright light can illuminate everything from broken pavement and tree roots to potential hiding spaces for someone lurking in the shadows.

When selecting a self defense device with a flashlight, check how intense its light is. Some lights are designed more for convenience, such as finding your way in the dark, than to be used during real self defense confrontations. The light should be bright enough to illuminate at least ten feet in front of you and temporarily blind or distract anyone whose eyes the light hits. Self defense flashlights come packaged in other self defense devices such as stun guns, or on their own, either in the form of a small and compact LED light which emits an extremely bright light and can even be attached to a keychain, or a larger and more substantial baton-style flashlight.

If you're going on your dream vacation, you probably can't wait to get away! You have it planned right down to the last detail, and it's going to be perfect. Perfect, that is, until you return from your vacation only to find out that your house has been ransacked and all of your belongings are missing. This happens to more people each year than you probably realize. Don't let it happen to you!

Planning for home security when you're going on vacation is crucial, but it is often overlooked. Even those with an alarm system should consider their home security before they leave. You should never leave home for an extended period of time without taking the following precautions:

Conduct a home security check. Walk around your home, and make sure all of the doors and windows are locked securely. For added security, install alarms, security lights, and cameras around exterior doors and windows. Some security cameras can even be networked so that you can check in on your home through the internet while you're away.

Make sure your mail and newspaper deliveries aren't stacking up. If you'll be gone for an extended period of time, have the post office hold your mail, and stop your newspaper delivery. If you've hired someone to watch your house while you're away, have them pick up your mail and newspapers. If you let your deliveries stack up outside your home, burglars will surely know that you've left, making this a prime opportunity to break in without getting caught.

Along the same principle, hire someone to cut your grass, shovel your snow, and otherwise care for your property, especially if you're leaving for several weeks or more. The purpose of this is to make it appear that someone is living in the home and taking care of the property.

Give your housesitter the spare key directly, rather than hiding it under the doormat or anywhere else on your property. If you have a habit of hiding a key in case you lock yourself out, remove it before you leave for vacation. Burglars know all of the hiding spots for hidden keys, and will find yours.

Use electrical timers to approximate your normal routine. Those with dogs may also want to purchase a barking dog alarm. Those who are leaving for a week or more should have a neighbor or friend park their car in the driveway occasionally. The purpose of such timed noises and lights is to make your home appear to be lived in.

Never change your answering machine message to let others know you'll be away from home for any period of time. While this may seem like a courteous step, it will actually let potential criminals know just when to attack. You may also be able to access your voicemail remotely so that you can respond to messages promptly even when you're away. At the same time, do inform your trusted neighbors that you will be gone, so that they can keep an eye on your home.

Burglars look for the easiest targets- a home that looks unoccupied, with an easy entrance point. While you're gone on vacation, a burglar will have an easier time getting in and out without getting caught. Assess your security risks before you go away for peace of mind that you won't return to a burglarized home.

Today, domestic violence is becoming a well-known problem, but few people realize that women in romantic relationships aren't the only victims. Domestic violence is defined as any violence that occurs in a household, whether between close family relationships or even among distant relatives who happen to be living under the same roof. The most widely publicized forms of domestic violence include that between the husband or father as abuser and girlfriends, wives, and children as victims, although it can actually occur between any family members.

Domestic abuse may occur in a wide variety of situations. It may include not only physical abuse, but also sexual abuse, in which the abuser uses force to compel the victim to participate in a sexual act. This can occur even if the victim and the abuser are married or in a romantic relationship. Although identification of physical or sexual domestic abuse is not difficult to uncover by those closest to the victims, it is often accompanied by emotional abuse. The symptoms of this type of domestic abuse are more difficult to uncover. Emotional abuse that falls under the category of domestic abuse may include financial dependence on the abuser, humiliation or embarrassment in public, or isolation from friends or family. This type of abuse makes it more difficult for victims of domestic violence to reach out for help, and leaves lasting psychological scars.

Even when those closest to the victim are aware of the situation, putting an end to the violence is a bit harder. It is all too easy to tell victims of ongoing domestic violence or verbal assaults to simply get out of the situation. Victims are often reluctant to break apart family relationships, especially if kids are involved, or have been conditioned to accept this mistreatment at the hands of their abuser. As a result, domestic violence may go on for years. In the most problematic cases, victims never leave the relationship, and may even end up dying at the hands of their abuser.

Standing up against the abuser or speaking out about the situation may be the most effective means of stopping it, but it's also the most problematic. Those who are abused are often fearful of retribution from the abuser, and instead hope that the problem will go away on its own. Many victims feel that they have nowhere to turn and no resources to get out of the situation. The longer the domestic violence and abuse continues, the more resigned victims may become to it.

The key to escaping domestic violence is empowerment and confidence. Victims of domestic abuse must realize that they do not have to remain victims. Protection from the abuser is available in many forms, including pepper sprays, stun guns, and TASER devices. The point of such self defense devices is to enable victims of violence, whether domestic violence by a close relative, or a random street attack, to fight back. With regard to domestic violence and most other violent situations, awareness is essential. You have to be aware of what is going on around you, and make the conscious decision to not become a victim of the situation.

When a child goes missing, everyone in the community is affected, especially those who have children themselves or who know the missing child. Child abduction is a crime that will have a lasting effect on everyone involved, particularly the family of the child.

According the FBI’s National Crime Information Center, parents call the police 2,100 times per day to report a child who has disappeared for any length of time. While most of these return home safely within minutes or hours, it is the cases in which the disappearance stretches to days that make national news.

A stereotypical kidnapping, in which a child is snatched by a stranger, occurs an average of 115 times each year, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. While these cases stay in the memories of residents for decades, the actual occurrence of a stranger abduction is rare. It is far more likely that the abductor will be someone the child knows, maybe even a family member. Over 200,000 children are taken by family members each year. Still, the possibility for both types of abductions should certainly be recognized. Even though statistics prove strangers abducting children is a rare occurrence, these statistics don't offer any comfort to the parents of a child who is missing.

A third category of child abductions is only now coming to light, and these are cases in which the missing child has been lured by information posted online. Are your children or teens active on social networking sites like MySpace? Do they chat online with people they don't know in real life? The internet has unfortunately created numerous opportunities for criminals to prey on children. Criminals posing as other kids and teens can easily strike up a conversation with your unsuspecting children.

How can parents protect their children from lurking dangers? Education is your best tool for defense, although you must teach your kids not only about the dangers of strangers, but also about the possibility of dangers in acquaintances, people in positions of power, or even family members. As a parent, it is your responsibility to take the necessary security precautions, from locking doors and windows to keeping the computer in a family room where you can monitor internet use.

Furthermore, it is not enough to tell your child to avoid talking to strangers or “just say no.” Children are vulnerable because they are small and easily overpowered. Arm them with devices to protect themselves or summon adult help, such as a personal alarm. There are even child alarms shaped like panda bears or other child-friendly animals to help you and your children feel more at ease with the device.

If your child ever goes missing, for any length of time, what should you do? First, call the police. They can issue an Amber Alert, which has resulted in nearly 500 children being recovered to date. Second, they will help you search the area and question any suspects in the disappearance. The police have the ability to bring together the resources of media and journalists, the general public, and other law enforcement agencies to bring your child home quickly and safely.

When most people think of metal detectors, they either picture treasure hunters walking through a field, or the line going through airport security. While various styles of metal detectors are certainly popular for both of these activities, there are also dozens of other potential uses for metal detecting devices. Besides security and the hunt for buried treasure, here are a few of the more unusual applications for metal detectors:

Construction crews and woodworkers. Metal detectors can be passed along planks of wood, trees, or reclaimed building materials to detect nails or other metallic debris. If not caught, these objects could be very dangerous, especially if they are ejected from the wood when a power saw is used. To avoid having pieces of metal flying at them at hundreds of miles per hour, those in the construction and woodworking industries check for metal beforehand using a simple handheld metal detector. The same detector can also be used to find steel bars used for reinforcement in concrete, or pipes and wires located in walls or floors.

Doctors and nurses. Studies have found that a metal detector may even be as accurate as an x-ray for finding a metal object in the body, such as a coin swallowed by a child. A sensitive metal detector will be able to pinpoint its location, reducing the extent of surgery required. Unlike x-rays, a metal detector causes no harmful radiation. Plus, these devices are cheaper and easier to maintain than hospital x-ray machines.

Industrial applications. The first metal detectors developed for industrial use were introduced in the 1960s. In fact, the first airport medical detectors were modified from devices designed for mining applications. Since then, metal detectors have been frequently used not only for mining, but also to aid in efforts to detect and disarm buried land mines. In food processing plants, such devices may be used to investigate for foreign metals in food, particularly after a piece of machinery breaks down. This major safety concern has led many companies in the food industry to install metal detectors along the production line. Metal detectors have dozens of industrial applications, including such varied industries as textiles, plastics, packaging, and pharmaceuticals.

Gold prospecting: While the typical treasure hunter is looking for coins, jewelry, and other manmade metal objects, a metal detector is also used by many modern gold prospectors. Instead of panning for gold in a river, they look for valuable metals buried in the ground in their natural forms, such as gold nuggets and silver flakes. On a larger scale, this method may be used for geophysical prospecting,  or the searching for metal in the earth for the possible site of a mine.

Archaeology. Treasure hunters aren't just looking for a horde that will make them rich. Many are also searching for rare archaeological finds. In many areas of the country, amateur archeologists using metal detectors can keep what they find, so long as the landowner has granted permission for them to search the area. In others, the government may have a claim to the artifacts, though it's still quite a thrill to be the one to find them!

If you're walking alone down a dark street, and you notice a suspicious person starting to approach you, what should you do? Should you wait until they have their hands on you to start preparing to fight back? No! What you do before the attack begins can have a huge impact on the outcome of the attack. If you know an attack is coming- or just have a gut feeling that you might be in danger- it's time to start mentally preparing yourself. If you have a stun gun, pepper spray, or another self defense device, it's time to make sure it's immediately accessible, not buried in the bottom of your bag.

What if you're face to face with the assailant, and you know you're about to get tackled? What should you do then? If you have a self defense device, it's a wise idea to pull it out so that you can get away quickly. But what if you're completely unarmed? If you plan to hit and kick your way out of the situation, should you be the first one to strike?

Martial arts teachers are divided over the issue of the pre-emptive strike. On the one hand, most traditional training begins with the “assailant” attacking the student. As a result, many students think that they can wait for someone to attack them, at which point the student deftly escapes the attack using their martial arts techniques. Although these strategies work well in practice, will you really be able to escape such a situation by beginning to fight back only after the attack has already begun?  These techniques may not work, because fighting in a martial arts competition and real fighting on the street are two completely different things, requiring two completely different techniques.

As a result, many martial arts teachers are beginning to encourage the pre-emptive attack in real self defense situations. In other words, hit them before they hit you. Many people, however, shy away from making the first move. Maybe they're not very confident in their fighting skills. Maybe they're worried about the law. Won't they get in trouble for initiating the attack?

The short answer is, no. Whether you use a self defense device, or protect yourself using your fists, as long as you can show that the attack was indeed imminent the law allows you to protect yourself physically. If you can show that there was nothing you could do except fight back physically, the law should be on your side.

In the end, it is often unwise to wait for your attacker to get his hands on you before you put up a defense. Once you're already grappling with an assailant, how easily will you be able to pull out your pepper spray or get into position for one of the martial arts moves you know? You will find it very difficult to defend yourself if you wait until you're already in this situation. By allowing the attack to happen without putting up a pre-emptive defense, you lose control of the situation. It's always best to run away from the situation, if at all possible, but if not, you should be the one to make the first move. If the attack is truly inevitable, you have no reason to wait.

Ask anyone who's ever had to live with roommates, and they'll probably have at least one horror story about the experience. Even if you get to choose your roommates, there's no guarantee that things will go as planned. Maybe they eat your food or leave a mess, but worse yet, there's also the possibility that they could steal your jewelry or invite in friends who might. Unfortunately, a lot of people get taken advantage of by their roommates. Whether you're simply coming from a different perspective, or you're seriously worried about your roommate's behavior and its effect on your personal safety, you can take steps to protect yourself.

One of the best ways to protect your things in an apartment environment is to keep roommates and visitors out of your personal space. Install a lock on your bedroom door, if it's permitted by the landlord. Otherwise, consider installing door alarms on your bedroom door so that a loud alarm will buzz anytime someone tries to enter. Door and window alarms are also a great options for the exterior doors and windows in your apartment; when you move, you can take them with you.

If you have a roommate who likes to have lots of guests over, stress the importance of home security.  Make sure that your new roommate isn't making dozens of copies of your house key to give to all of her friends. Avoid leaving a key on top of the doorframe or under the mat. It might seem like a good gesture in case one of you locks your keys inside, but in fact many criminals know just where to look for your spare key.

Insist that the door is locked by the last person to leave each day. Keeping your apartment locked is a great security measure, of course, unless your belongings are in danger of being stolen by someone who already has access. What can you do if you don't want your valuables to be stolen from your apartment? Consider hiding them in diversion safes. Disguised as everyday household products, this strategy allows you to hide your valuables in plain sight so they won't be snatched by an opportunist who happens to see them sitting on your dresser.

Avoid asking someone you don't know to be your roommate. It's always best to find an acquaintance who has references you can trust. However, just because your roommate is your friend or someone your friends know doesn't mean that they will be a trustworthy member of your household. You should always interview potential housemates to learn about them and their habits before you become roommates. Make sure to ask about their source of income during the screening process, and discuss the splitting of household duties and bills, in addition to security concerns. Screening potential roommates carefully can help you head off these sorts of situations. However, if you've found that your roommate or their friends may not be as trustworthy as they seem, you can protect yourself by installing home security measures, even if you live in a tiny apartment.

Responsible parents often make home safety a priority for their kids, making sure to child-proof every room in their home before their little one is even able to roll over on his own. Childproofing ensures that small children are not harmed by dangers existing inside the home. Many people, however, forget to consider the same principles as they relate to the safety of pets. You wouldn't want your beloved puppy to get hurt while in your home, would you? Pets are an important member of your family, and it is your responsibility to consider their safety as well. Pet-proofing your home, which is similar to child-proofing, will help keep your pet out of harm's way. Here are a few home safety tips for your pets:

Remove small objects from the floor. Just like children, pets can choke on small objects that they put inside their mouths. Don't risk a choking hazard; keep these items away from the reach of your pets and your children. Supervise pets when they are playing with small toys; even if they are sold as pet toys, this doesn't mean a small piece couldn't be pulled off by a pet playing aggressively, posing a choking hazard.

Get rid of poisonous plants. Many new pet owners don't realize that common houseplants can actually be poisonous for your animals. Daffodils, geraniums, and poinsettias are some of the most common culprits. If you have these plants in the home, make sure they're somewhere your pets can't chew on them. If your pet snacks on these pets, it could cause a serious illness. Your pet could even die from nibbling on the Rhododendrons or poinsettias that you assumed were harmless.

Cover electrical outlets. Like children, pets may also be harmed by exposed cords and outlets. Pets may enjoy chewing or licking the cords, which pose a danger of electrocution. The covers sold for childproofing will protect your pets as well. Also keep any curtain strings and other dangling cords out of the reach of your pets. Pets may try to play and bat at these cords, and may end up becoming tangled in them or pulling an electrical device off a table or countertop, hurting themselves.

Consider an alarm system. Alarms help to protect not only the people in the home, but also your pets. There is a wide variety of home safety systems available, from whole-house security systems to individual alarms that can be placed on doors or windows, or motion sensors at the entrances to a particular room in the home. These alarms are also a great way to make sure your new puppy hasn't escaped his pen, or your cat hasn't gotten into your workshop. Many systems can be set so that they will detect pet movements, while others are designed to ignore pets so that false alarms aren't set off by them. Don't let the presence of pets in the home prevent you from setting up home security alarms.

These precautionary measures can keep your pets safe and secure inside your home. Although child-proofing and keeping your doors and windows locked are becoming commonplace security practices, many families simply don't do enough to ensure the safety of their pets, even though they consider Fluffy or Fido to be just as much a part of the family as the people.

With all of the home security and surveillance equipment available today, many homeowners are wondering how to best protect their home without spending a fortune. The homeowner on a budget may want to consider home security alarm signs and window decals. These simple and effective methods to guard against intruders are not only practical, but they are also affordable. Alarm signs are also an excellent options for those who are not comfortable with high tech home security equipment, no matter how effective it might be.

How well do home security alarm signs work? Statistics show that these signs are actually quite effective, even if you have no alarm actually installed on the home. Like a fake security camera, these signs make potential intruders take notice. A potential burglar can't be sure whether you really have a security system or not unless they're willing to risk setting it off. No burglar is willing to risk breaking into a home with an activated security alarm. By warning intruders that you have such a system (even if it's not true), the burglar will simply walk away. Like a scarecrow in the field, this decoy really works to scare away intruders.

These security signs can be placed almost anywhere. Ideally, they should be immediately visible to anyone approaching your property, including those who may sneak around to the back door before ever approaching your main entry. There are signs designed for your yard or wall, and decals to place in the window next to your front door, or any other glass surface. Every ground floor entry, including all doors and windows, should have a sign. The security system sign by your front door should be visible from the street to let all every passerby know that your house is protected.

Essentially, home security alarm signs advertise how well protected your home is. These signs will make an intruder think twice about entering your home. After all, no criminal wants to be caught in the act, and that's exactly what you're warning will happen. Why would he take the risk to break into your home, when there are so many other homes that have been left unprotected?

If you have a home security system installed, it will most likely come with such signs to place around your property. However, even if you don't have such as system, high-quality and professional-looking signs will keep burglars at bay. These signs and stickers must stand up to close inspection by would-be criminals. An experienced burglar won't be fooled by an obviously fake sign. Security system signs and decals are so inexpensive, and so easy to install, that it's surprising how few homeowners have taken advantage of them. These devices offer very effective home security protection at a very low cost.

In addition to signs warning of cameras or alarm systems, there are also emergency signs that alert emergency responders to the presence of children or pets in the home. These signs are crucial for a fast response time and quick rescue. Signs around your home aren't just criminal deterrents; they provide essential emergency information as well.

Alarm signs should be seen as your first line of defense against criminals. A security sign or decal is certainly better than taking no security precautions at all. When used in combination with dummy cameras, wireless door and window alarms, and other home security devices, any intruder is sure to look for an easier target before choosing your home.

Today, hidden cameras are a popular security device not only inside retail stores and other businesses, but also inside the home. A reliable gadget like a hidden camera can catch a range of behaviors, from theft to violence, and can serve both as a preventive measure and as key evidence for catching the culprit.

Although hidden cameras are very small, and by nature are designed to be hidden almost anywhere, there are a few key guidelines to keep in mind when using a hidden camera. First, consider your need, and where you will be using the camera. Some hidden cams are fixed. These work best in small areas to protect valuable property or guard against a very specific threat. A fixed camera is frequently used in retail stores near a showcase or above the cash register. Dome cameras in the ceiling, meanwhile, provide a view of the surrounding area. Other styles of hidden cameras are similarly able to record the view of a wider area.

The position of your camera is as essential as the camera model or style you have chosen. Always check on the positioning before leaving the camera to record activities. Otherwise, you could end up with eight hours of the floor or ceiling, instead of being able to watch what's going on. When positioning a hidden camera, it is critical to keep the camera away from anything that might inadvertently be moved into its line of sight.

No matter the intended use for your camera, many people wonder whether they should choose a hidden camera or a large and immediately noticeable camera. While a noticeable camera (or even a “dummy” camera) provides a visible theft deterrent, and it has even been shown that the mere warning that a camera is in the vicinity will deter criminal behavior, hidden cameras are essential when you'd like to watch what's going on without being noticed. For example, you may want to peek in on your employees from time to time, without the intrusiveness of a visible camera.  Hidden cameras are particularly popular as nanny cams, allowing you to watch your child and their caretakers when you're away from home. Those with pets enjoy the ability to watch their pets to make sure they aren't tearing up the house.

Outdoor cameras might be hidden or traditional models. There are even “dummy” cameras designed for outdoor use. On the other hand, a hidden camera outdoors can be a valuable method for watching activities without your camera being discovered. There are many ingenious uses for an outdoor camera in addition to home security, from watching your teenage children coming and going to figuring out what kind of animal is rooting through your trash.

There are other reasons to choose a hidden camera, too. Your clientele might be turned off by the sight of such as device. Your location may simply not provide sufficient space for a regular camera. The point of a hidden camera is to be as unobtrusive as possible, often to the point of being truly unnoticeable even by those who are looking for signs of a camera.

Motion detectors have well-known uses as security devices in homes and businesses, but there is also a wide range of other uses for these devices. Portable, wireless devices that detect motion when an object or person crosses their path, motion detectors aren't just useful to keep people out of your home.

For example, instead of placing these detectors near doors and windows, use it on the door of an elderly parent or young child's bedroom. This way, you'll know if they leave their room at night. For older kids, use a motion detector to figure out what time they come home at night. A loud, beeping motion alarm can be a great way to startle a teenager creeping in after curfew.

Motion detectors can also be an effective way to keep people out of certain areas of the home. For example, protect your pantry from family members who might try to break their diet or sneak a midnight snack.

A motion detector can also keep young children out of the basement, workshop, or other areas of the home that aren't kid-friendly. This tactic is particularly helpful during the childproofing stage. Some areas of the home are simply too dangerous to be childproofed with the typical devices. Instead, consider a motion alarm to keep young children completely out of the area. Sure, you can try to keep the door closed at all times, but what about the times you forget to close the door? What if the area isn't easily closed off simply by shutting a door?

Motion detectors can be just as useful outdoors as they are in the home. For example, a motion detector with a loud alarm can alert you to anyone near your swimming pool. In fact, there are specially-designed motion detecting alarms meant especially for your backyard pool. Another important backyard area to protect from intruders is the tool shed. Not only is there a lot of expensive equipment to be stolen, but there are also pesticides and sharp clippers that pose a serious danger for children. Why not set up a door alarm to scare away potential burglars or curious kids?

Motion alarms don't just detect the movement of people. In fact, one of the most popular uses is in tracking the movement of pets. While many motion detectors designed for home security use are calibrated to not be set off by the movements of your pets, others are designed specifically for pets. If, for example, your new puppy is not yet housebroken, keep hm from escaping his room and tearing up your house by placing motion detectors around the area where he's allowed to be. A motion detector will tell you he has escaped and give you time to keep the destruction to a minimum.

In addition to putting motion detectors around your home's entry points to alert you to intruders, consider these uses for motion detectors and door alarms that you might not have thought about. In fact, motion detectors can be used to stop people or animals from entering anywhere you don't want them.

In today's dangerous world, is there anything more important than protecting yourself and your family from attack? Whether walking in a dark parking lot or fighting off an intruder, a stun gun is one of the best ways to protect yourself from crime. However, people often forget how important it is to have a stun gun at the ready when they need it. How scary would it be to pull out your stun gun to ward off a threat, only to find out that it's out of batteries?

Eliminate your worry about whether the stun gun will perform when it's needed by choosing a rechargeable stun gun. Incorporating the latest and greatest in stun gun technology, these devices remove the need for replacing the batteries. Because it's often difficult to remember when your stun gun's batteries were last changed, and how much power they might have left, a rechargeable stun gun provides you with the peace of mind that it will always be ready to defend you in your time of need.

A rechargeable stun gun offers the same features found on a regular stun gun, such as a safety switch and built-in personal alarm. Rechargeable stun guns are offered by many of the top names in the personal protection industry, and offer all of the power and voltage of a regular stun gun. The ability to recharge the gun should be considered a highly desirable feature when you are comparing the available stun devices on the market today.

In addition to giving you peace of mind, opting for a rechargeable stun gun is also a cost-saving measure. Instead of replacing the standard 9 volt alkaline battery, your rechargeable stun gun plugs right into the wall. If used frequently, a stun gun can go through plenty of batteries to make a rechargeable unit well worth the extra cost. When your stun gun is low on power, just plug it into the charger for a couple of hours. Most rechargeable units can be recharged up to 800 times, more than a lifetime of use. In a pinch, a regular 9 volt alkaline battery can also be used in these devices. Although they are a little more expensive than other stun devices, a rechargeable stun gun can be well worth it when you compare the long-term costs. These convenient devices ensure that your stun gun will always have power, no matter where you are!

It is often advised that firing “warning shots” with your stun gun will scare off many potential attackers. The electric current flowing from probe to probe, as well as the crackling noise made by the electricity, is certainly intimidating. If you get in the habit of using your stun gun for this purpose, you'll find the batteries waning more frequently.  Not to worry, though. With a rechargeable stun gun, you can feel free to use your stun gun as many times as necessary.

Considering the importance of reliability when it comes to self defense devices, is it any wonder why more and more people are relying on stun guns, and particularly rechargeable models, to protect themselves?

Having an effective self defense strategy means more than preparing yourself with self defense devices or learning fighting techniques. If this is your only preparation, you are setting yourself up for a situation in which you MUST fight off an attacker, because it is too late to avoid the attack. There are many principles behind attack avoidance. One method, the “3 circles of protection,” is a crucial addition to your overall self defense strategy. Each of these three circles represents two distinct meanings for your self defense strategy.

With the 3 Circles of Protection method, visualize three circles around yourself. The outermost circle is the community, including such elements as the police and the government, which protect us from threats before we're even aware of the danger. This circle also represents the building or large area in which you are located. While threats may exist in this area, you're probably not aware of them yet, because they are too far away. At this stage, it's up to police officers, security forces, and others to catch the threat. Still, it's important to be aware of the overall safety level in the area where you are, so that you can be aware of the potential for attack.

The second circle represents your family and friends. These people are close to you, and are likely to warn you of potential threats or try to defend you from attack, if they are nearby at the time. This circle also represents the area within eyeshot of you. If a potential attacker exists in this area, you may be aware of them, but they do not pose an immediate threat to you because they have not yet begun the assault. Still, you should be watching them closely to protect yourself from harm. If this circle does not appear to be safe, your best self defense strategy is to move to another area.

Finally, the smallest circle exists at the center of it all, like the bull's eye on a target. This circle represents yourself. It also represents the area immediately surrounding your body, where an assailant represents an immediate threat that must be stopped quickly. You are your first line of defense. Anything that has passed through the outer circles (the police and your friends and family; also the larger spaces surrounding you) and escaped detection will need to be fought off by you. Once a threat passes through to this inner level, you can no longer live in denial that the police, your spouse, your parents, or your friends will protect you from harm. These “others” only exist in your overall self defense strategy until the threat is in your immediate area.

What does the “3 circles of protection” method mean for you? If you are serious about developing the necessary skills to protect yourself, then it is vital to understand that you are your own last line of defense. In the moment when the attacker has slipped through the outermost two circles, and is standing in front of you, it is up to you, alone, to protect yourself. Prepare yourself for this possibility by carrying a stun gun, pepper spray canister, or anything else you can use to fight off such a threat.

Homeowners often overlook garage security, but it is actually one of the most important areas of your home to secure. Even if you don't keep your car in your garage, it's a good bet that you have a multitude of expensive tools and equipment stored there. In addition, many garages offer a way to enter the home, through a door that is often much less secure than the main entrance to the home.

Many people ignore the security of their garage door because they don't realize how important it is. Does your garage door close and lock securely? Many garage doors are made of cheap materials. Combined with their large size, this makes the garage one of the easiest areas for a burglar to break in. If your garage door has cracks, loose panels, broken panes, or other weak spots, have it replaced before a criminal pries it open. If you don't lock the garage door securely, any stranger could just roll up your garage door and steal your belongings. If there are any windows in your garage, keep them locked too.

If you have a door between the garage and your home, keep it locked so that no one can slip from the garage into your home.  This door is a common entry point for criminals. Homeowners often don't consider it a threat because it's an interior door, and therefore it often isn't protected it with a sturdy lock. Security experts advise you to make the door from your garage to your home as secure as the front door of your home.

Never leave the garage door partially open for airflow in the summer, or when leaving for any length of time, even if you're just running up the block to the corner store. Even if you are home, leaving your garage door open is risky. In many cases, those inside the home will have no idea someone is ransacking their garage until it's too late. Keep the door closed even if you're around to watch it. Leaving it open gives an opportunity for potential burglars to scope out your belongings, and come back later to break in and steal them. In addition, burglars know that these areas are nearly always unoccupied at night, making them a relatively safe prospect for a home invasion.

A new trend that is becoming increasingly problematic is gaining access to the home through stealing the remote garage door opener. If this ever happens to you, change the frequency and code to your garage door opener immediately. Although such a device often makes more sense than a traditional lock on the garage door, it does present some unique security concerns.

Having good home security outside the house can prevent someone from entering the garage as well as the rest of your home. Effective strategies include outdoor lighting, dummy cameras or security cameras mounted in the eves of your home, and signs alerting potential burglars to the presence of a security system. There are plenty of ways to make the exterior of your home and garage less attractive to burglars. Whether you have an attached garage or a freestanding building, garage security is often overlooked, yet it is essential to the overall security of your property.

Neighborhood Crime Watch groups are formed by neighbors who agree to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior in the local area, and are committed to reporting such activities to the police. Your neighborhood crime watch group can also conduct educational programs and training on such topics as how to make your home security better, or how to stop vandalism in the neighborhood. Each watch group collaborates to determine the direction of its activities.

Such groups have long been recognized for their positive effects within the community, but how do you get a group started? This can seem like a daunting task, especially if you've never met some of your neighbors. Communication is crucial for the long-term success of your program. Regular meetings must be held, either at a home in the neighborhood or in a public building. Many watch groups have elected members to do certain tasks, such as putting together a monthly newsletter. Some groups communicate through letter or fliers, while others have switched to email. In addition to sharing the meeting dates, your neighborhood watch group should also keep updated information on current threats within the neighborhood, such as suspicious people recently spotted prowling around empty homes.

Although it's easy to start forming a group by gathering a small number of people, it's also important for your group to be inclusive. Make sure that the message reaches the entire neighborhood. At the first meeting, it's a good idea to have a “meet and greet” where neighbors can meet each other and share their concerns. Don't forget to invite new neighbors to join your group soon after they move into the neighborhood.

By being part of a neighborhood crime group, you will be better informed of what is going on in your local area. Many law enforcement agencies are more than willing to come speak to such groups, and may even share information on crimes occurring nearby. Often, neighborhood crime watch groups are the first to know about such activities.

From the beginning, it is important to communicate what your group does. Being a part of this group does not require a big time commitment, but rather an agreement to keep your eyes open as you go about your usual activities and report any problems you see. Some groups do have formalized patrols around the neighborhood, although these are not very common. Often, there is a perception that a neighborhood crime watch is a license for vigilante justice. However, crime watch members should not confront any criminals they spot. This is best left for the police. In addition to watching for home invasions and related crimes, there are other activities in which the group can become involved, such as cleaning up the neighborhood to deter vandalism. Your group should establish a list of concerns early in the formation process so that you can focus your attention on matters of concern to the community.

Once your neighborhood watch group has been established, don't forget to put signs in your windows and on neighborhood streets as a visual deterrent. Once criminals find out that you have an active group, they will know that their actions will be watched and reported. These signs, coupled with the actions of group members, can go a long way in keeping suspicious and criminal behavior out of your neighborhood.

If you have recently decided to put your home on the market, you surely understand what a stressful time this can be. Today, this process often takes even longer than it used to, adding to the anxiety. Although you probably feel like you just can't add another thing to your 'to do' list during this time, there is one important thing that you must think about if you're in the process of selling your home, and that is home security.

When your home is on the market, the details of your home will become public knowledge through real estate listings. Because your personal information is out in the public, this can put you at a disadvantage when it comes to the security of your home, and even your personal safety. You may want to avoid posting detailed information, such as a virtual tour or extensive photos of your home, on the internet. By protecting such information about your home, you can avoid becoming the target of burglars who may take advantage of this information to scope out your home and its contents prior to breaking in.

Another security risk comes in the form of open houses, when dozens of strangers will be walking through your home. Whether you are selling your home with the help of a realtor, or have opted for a For Sale By Owner listing, there are steps you can take to minimize the danger of strangers in your home. Always get the contact information of anyone you let into the home. Not only is this an important security measure, but it will also help you contact potential buyers after they've seen your house.  No matter your selling strategy, make sure that potential buyers have been screened before they are allowed inside.

Many sellers are choosing to allow their homes to be shown by appointment only, minimizing the number of people in the home at a given time. Make sure all visitors enter and exit through only one door, and always escort potential buyers by following behind them, rather than leading them through the house. Never enter small rooms such as a bathroom with a visitor, as there is a possibility of being trapped inside. If you plan to show the house by yourself, consider purchasing such devices as a pepper spray pen, which offer effective protection against such threats without being too obtrusive.

During the selling process, it is crucial to remove all valuables from the home. This is especially true if you plan to host open house events, where you may not be able to keep an eye on everyone in the house. If you cannot remove valuable items from the home, install security cameras nearby.

Many sellers vacate their homes before they have been sold. Although this might become a necessity, it's also important to recognize the dangers of doing so. While the home is unoccupied, it is at a higher risk of being broken into. While this is particularly true if you have left belongings in the home, even an empty home is not immune from this threat. Even though you aren't living there, it is still your responsibility to protect it from break-ins by install alarms around doors and windows as well as other security devices. Consider portable alarms and other wireless devices that can be taken with you once the house sells.

When a home invasion or any other emergency happens, you want help immediately. Such situations often escalate quickly, requiring you to respond quickly. Calling 911 will get police officers and other emergency responders moving in your direction. What you say, and what you don't say, during a 911 call can dramatically impact the result. In order to help the 911 dispatcher send the right help quickly, you'll want to answer three critical questions: Who you are, where you are, and what is the emergency. Make yourself as easy to understand as possible. Even though you will be overwhelmed by the situation, screaming unintelligible words into the phone won't help the police react quickly.

If you need an ambulance or paramedic, state it as soon as possible so that appropriate help can be sent. If you know that your assailant is armed, tell the operator what kind of weapon, in as much detail as possible. This information is passed on to the responding officers, and can help them prepare for the situation. Describe the assailant's physical appearance to aid police in identifying both the assailant and the victim(s) when they arrive on the scene. Keep the backstory to a minimum, but do provide these critical details to the 911 operator.

Many people assume that the 911 dispatcher can track down the exact location given only a phone number. While this may be true if you are calling from a land line, and some sophisticated systems can pinpoint the location if a cell phone is used, in many cases this is not possible, or cannot be done quickly enough. If you are calling from a prepaid cell phone or a cell phone that is not connected to one of the major service providers, you will need to provide your exact location. The operator must know where you are before they send someone.

Your 911 call will also be recorded, and it serves as an electronic witness to the incident. If you are involved in a criminal or civil court case as a result of the crime, it may be introduced as evidence. Although your number one priority will be getting police to your location quickly, it's also important to consider what you're saying to make sure the recording is a strong witness for your side. There is a fine line between self defense and unprovoked violence; anything you say during the call can be used in court.

No matter how you plan to protect yourself from the threat of violence, be careful what you say or do while on the line with the 911 dispatcher. Although the operator will try to keep you on the line and chat with you, this may not be in your best interest. Consider also the possibility that the intruder will overhear this conversation and determine your location within the home. If you do plan to confront the attacker with violence, either using a firearm or using a nonlethal self defense device, do not explain your actions or intended actions to the 911 dispatcher.

To help 911 operators do their job, only call 911 for actual emergencies. Every city has a non-emergency police line for issues that do not require immediate attention. Do not let children play with your cell phone, even if it's in the locked position or isn't connected to a service plan. Even if the operator believes they've received a prank call, they are obligated to send police to investigate.

Unfortunately the laws concerning Expandable Batons are in many cases unclear, and for this reason we do not restrict the sale of batons to any state. Some states restrict carrying of similarly named items such as blackjacks, billys, billy clubs, clubs, saps and several other names.

However there are cases where it was judged that an expandable baton was NOT a blackjack, and therefore NOT illegal even in a state we have listed below. See COMMONWEALTH vs. AMI H. PERRY. This again is another reason why we WILL still sell/ship to any of the 50 states.

No Batons will be shipped outside of the United States, even to Canada. We cannot ship to APO/FPO addresses.

Expandable batons may be illegal in the following states:

• California
• Massachusetts
• New York
• Washington D.C.
  

LEGAL NOTICE

The information we provide is strictly for research purposes. It does not necessarily reflect the actual law.

By placing an order, the buyer agrees to the following:

1. You have confirmed independantly that it is legal to possess and use the items being purchased in your location.
2. You have contacted any local, state and/or federal authorities where necessary, and are acting in a lawful manner with regard to any type of products ordered from, or affiliated with, Clever Chaps, Inc or ResistAttack.com.
3. You are at least 18 years of age and of legal age to own and possess the items being ordered.
4. Any products received will be used for self defense or training purposes only.
5. Any products received will be used for legal purposes only.
6. You have read all information on this disclaimer and understand its contents. Also by placing an order, you agree that Clever Chaps, Inc, ResistAttack.com and anyone affiliated with them in any way, has no control over the use of any product ordered. The buyer also agrees that, under no circumstances will you hold Clever Chaps, Inc, ResistAttack.com, the manufacturer, or any Resellers liable for any loss, including any circumstances arising out of the use, or misuse of these products or services it represents.
7. All Offers Void Where Prohibited By Law

Parents, teachers, and students expect schools to be a safe place. Acts of violence disrupt the learning process, not to mention having a profoundly negative emotional impact on those affected by school violence. According to a recent report on school crime and student safety by the CDC and the Department of Education, students aged twelve through eighteen are the victims of more than 2.7 million crimes at school each year. Over the past year, fifteen percent of all high school students reported being involved in a physical altercation on school property. Just how common are crimes on school campuses?

28 percent of students in middle school and high school reported being bullied in the last six months.A significant portion of these students also admitted avoiding one or more places at school for their own safety. Nearly 20% of students in middle and high school report being threatened with a beating.

According to the Gun-Free Schools Act Report, nearly four thousand students are expelled each year for bringing a gun to school. Perhaps surprisingly, more than a third of these expulsions involve middle school students, and a tenth involve even younger students. School violence might be a stereotypically high school occurrence, but it happens at all levels of the school system, even among kids as young as seven or eight years old.

In addition to incidents involving firearms, there are also thousands of other crimes, from physical assault to threat to vandalism, happening on school campuses worldwide. Not only gun-related expulsions, but also violence in general, is actually more common in middle schools than at high schools. Students aged twelve through fourteen are more likely than older students to become victims of crime at school.

It is likely that violence, theft, and drugs will continue to be significant problems in the school system. A tenth of all high school students reported being threatened with, or injured with, a weapon in the previous year. Students in middle school or high school are more likely to be victims of theft while at school than while away for school. A quarter reported that drugs had been offered to them on school property within the past year.

The point to take away from this is that kids are not immune from violence in schools, no matter their age. This might seem like an urban high school problem, but it happens in schools of all sizes, and in all locations. A staggering 86 percent of all public schools reported one or more serious violent incidents in the 2005-2006 school year. The overall crime rate within schools is 46 reported crimes each year per 1,000 students.  If you have a child at school, no matter their age, they must be prepared to deal with the possibility of such situations arising.

Your options to protect your children from violence at school are unfortunately limited. The vast majority of schools have a 'no tolerance' policy, meaning that students may not carry such devices as pepper spray or a stun gun. They can, however, bring a personal alarm to school, and this can be invaluable in alerting teachers and other adults to a violent or potentially violent confrontation.

Have you ever wondered if you could fight off an attacker using only your bare hands? While it's always best to use a stun gun, pepper spray, or other self defense device against an assailant, what happens if you're caught without any weapon of any kind?

If you're caught unprepared by a surprise attack, your first reaction will be fear and helplessness. Next, you'll probably start wracking your brain for anything you have on you – car keys or a pen, for example - that you could use to fight back. In this situation, it is crucial to have a well-practiced plan for fighting back. Here are a few basic self-defense moves that are recommended for most teenagers and adults, even those without a lot of previous training.

1. Eye gouge. With your first clenched tightly, gouge the attacker's eyes with your thumbs. Try to gouge both eyes at once for the best chance of escaping. Thumbs are stronger than fingers, although you can still expect some injury to the thumbs if you try this method. One of the biggest mistakes made when trying the eye gouge is poking at the attacker using the index finger, rather than using the thumb in a fast jabbing motion. You can't be hesitant if you want the eye gouge to work.

2. Ear slap. Slightly cup your hands, with your fingers close together. Then, slap both of your hands onto the attacker's ears at the same time. Your movement must be fast, fluid, and perfectly timed. The resulting ringing sensation can give you a few seconds to break free.

3. Punch sensitive areas. Both the nose and Adam's apple, or throat, are sensitive to jabs using your closed fist. In fact, if you are fighting an attacker using punches, landing them anywhere on the head is a good bet. This technique is frequently used in a close situation in which you're unable to set up another technique because you don't have enough maneuvering room.

4. Groin kick. The groin area is notoriously sensitive. Knee your attacker's crotch area as hard as you can. Although this works best for male attackers, it can be a sensitive area for females too. This method should give you a second or two to get away, particularly if the attacker hasn't yet gotten a firm grasp on you.

5. Pulling, biting, and scratching. If there are no nearby objects that you can use as a weapon, and you have no experience with physical fights, these are the three techniques of last resort. Pull the hair, bite the skin, or scratch at the attacker's face with your fingernails.

While these moves can free you from an attacker's grasp, they should only be used as a last resort. The worst-case scenario is being confronted by an attacker when you have nothing with which to fight back. Of course, it is always better to avoid potential attacks in the first place, or fight back using self defense devices designed to get you out of these kinds of situations. But if these options are unavailable, you must know how to protect yourself.

Each new year is a time of renewal, rejuvenation, and of course, resolutions in the hope that this year will be different and better than the last one. By February, of course, you've stopped going to the gym, fell off the diet bandwagon, and given up on your new hobby. This year, why not set your resolution sights on something a little more obtainable? It's never too late to make a promise to make changes that will benefit you and your loved ones year round. Too many families forget to think of their home security as a year-round endeavor. Take a little time now to update and improve the security of your home, and reap the benefits all year long.

What are some easy changes you can make that will have significant security benefits? First, invest in alarms for your doors and windows. Even if you don't want to invest in a whole-house security system, which can be costly, individual alarms for each entry point around your home cost just a few dollars. They are definitely worth it. You may even be able to alarm all of your windows for less than that gym membership you've stopped using. You're sure to find alarms that fit your needs and your budget, no matter what they may be. Even a sign saying that your home is alarmed has a proven effect in deterring would-be burglars. If you want to go the extra mile, there are also security cameras and a whole host of other home security options to install inside and outside the home.

Over the years, daily use can take its toll on your home. This not only affects its cosmetic appearance, but also its safety. Do you have any broken locks or cracked panes of glass? What about window frames becoming weak with age? Make a commitment to making these simple repairs as soon as possible. Hire a carpenter, a locksmith, or a general handyman to fix or replace potential security problems around your home. You'll sleep better knowing that your home is secure. If you have a key hidden above a doorway or under a doormat, move it now. This is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family. It might seem sensible to have a spare key in a nearby location, but every criminal will know to check the usual hiding spots.

If you're like most people, you roll your eyes the second anyone mentions the necessity of having an emergency plan. Very few people actually take the time to make practical plans for what their family will do in the case of an emergency, even if they do realize how important such a plan can be. Discuss what the family should do, and where you should go, in case of a fire, a home invasion, and other possible emergency scenarios. Set up a meeting point in case you are separated from the rest of the family. Don't forget to stash away a disaster preparedness kit, too. Hopefully, you'll never need to put your plan into action or open your emergency kit, but if you're ever in need of one, you'll be glad you took the necessary steps to keep your family safe.

These three key commitments to your family's safety require some time, but they are not very expensive. These changes can make a significant difference in your family's overall security level.  There's no time like the present to make your family safer from harm.

Schools have long been “weapon free zones,” but they do not often have a way to ensure that this is true. Unfortunately, today's children and young adults have access to guns, knives, and other weapons, which can become a danger to themselves and to other students. There is no good reason or excuse to bring a weapon into the school building. With school violence on the rise, districts face tough decisions on how to stop violent situations before they occur, making the need for metal detectors higher now than it has ever been.

Students certainly have the right to feel secure in school, but there is only one way to make sure that weapons are not being let inside: metal detectors. To stop all types of school violence, of course, it is necessary to get to the root of the problem, although metal detectors can go a long way towards stopping violence in schools. By detecting guns or knives in pockets and backpacks, a metal detector can make the school building a weapon-free area.

Across the country, school officials are making the hard choice to install metal detectors in schools to keep weapons out. Once walk-through metal detectors are installed, all students and visitors must pass through the detectors before being allowed to enter the school building. Although some schools install permanent, walk-through metal detectors, many find this option cost prohibitive; the costs can be millions of dollars for a single school district.

Other districts are choosing handheld metal detectors, which can be used selectively but require security personnel to wave the wand across each person being screened. These metal detectors are often an important part of security procedures in government buildings, airports, and other buildings, in addition to thousands of schools worldwide. There are many kinds of handheld metal detectors to suit the specific security needs of a school setting. Hand-held body scanners are sensitive enough to detect even the smallest weapon hidden by clothing.

Once metal detectors have been purchased, decisions must be made about how to implement them into the school day. Will every student be searched every day, or will searches be random or on specific days when the threat of violence seems higher?

Instead of dealing with incidents as they occur, a metal detector allows schools to screen out the tools of violence before they get into the school building in the first place. Not only do metal detectors in school provide a way to stop violence before it happens, but they also provide a visual deterrent. The presence of metal detectors makes would-be criminals much less likely to even attempt to bring weapons into the school. The addition of visible security features such as these makes all students feel more secure throughout the school day.

It is up to school administrators to make their schools a safer place to learn. Metal detectors have become a common sight as schools attempt to stop violence. These metal detectors play a significant role in catching weapons and helping students feel safer in the classroom.

Pets are constant companions, and many pet owners consider them to be every bit a member of the family. The majority of American households have at least one pet, but these family members are too often overlooked in your home security plan.

Having pets presents some unique home security challenges. In some cases, the entries and exits for your animals become an access point for a burglar. Could a burglar use your dog door to break into the back door of your home? Do you usually leave a window open so that your cats can get outside at night? Once you have pets, make sure that your daily routine does not present weaknesses that can be exploited by intruders.

In the past, having pets and a home security system was a bit frustrating. Old styles of motion detectors were often set off accidentally by pets. Today's more sophisticated motion detectors are able to tell the difference between a pet and a person. You won't have to worry about a false alarm after the motion detector is triggered by the movements of a family pet. If you've had bad experienced with an overly sensitive motion detector in the past, rest assured that today's detectors are designed with pets in mind. These motion detector alarms are a critical part of any home security plan, alerting you to potential intruders who have made it into your home.

Pets should also be taken into account when planning other aspects of your emergency plan. Your emergency kit, if you have one, probably contains everything your family would need to survive at least a few days. If you don't have any emergency kit at all, of course, you need one. Families that are prepared with an emergency kit often overlook the needs of their pets. Don't forget to include pet foods, any necessary pet medications, and perhaps a way of restraining your pet in case your home is no longer safe to enter. You don't want Fluffy or Fido to run away in the aftermath of an earthquake, after all!

When you're away from home, you can watch pet sitters and pets via nanny cams. Do you want to make sure your pet sitters or your children are being nice to your kittens? What about making sure your new puppy isn't chewing up the house? A nanny cam is an unobtrusive way to watch how your pets are faring when you're not there, whether you're in the next room or miles away from home.

Additional safety measures can be taken that are particular to your pet. For example, have your pet microchipped, especially if he is allowed outside or if he is a rare or exotic breed that may be stolen. If you let your pet into the yard to play and run, consider an invisible pet fence to make sure he doesn't stray too far.

Whether you want to make your pets secure in the home, or are worried about how to protect them in an emergency situation, a little forethought into your home security options can give you the assurance that your pets will be safe and sound, just like every other family member.