In a time where women everywhere are going missing from college campuses there comes a time when one needs to stop thinking “oh that would never happen to me,” including myself.

After receiving notification that police think a girl might have been kidnapped on the same route that I personally take several times a week to get to my car I was so shocked that I could not fall back asleep and so I started to do some research.

1. Pepper Spray

Pepper Spray is legal in all 50 states however, each state has its own rules and regulations. It is legal to carry in Nebraska. Now there is a difference between Pepper Spray and Mace, Pepper spray is described as an “inflammatory agent and will immediately incapacitate an assailant” and “traditional chemical mace (CN) is classified as an irritant and is similar to tear gas.” For more specific information, you can always look up your state laws or talk to your local Police Dept.

2. Tasers

Owning one of these is a personal choice now there is a difference between a stun gun and a taser most people own tasers while law enforcement use stun guns, which is okay because stun guns cost up to thousands of dollars while you can by a nice taser for less than $100. Tasers are legal in 46 states Nebraska is one of them. You can look up Taser Laws as each state and city has its own rules and regulations.

3. Keys

Your own keys are a way to protect yourself if they are on a lanyard that is a great way to defend yourself without worrying about losing your keys and having to get closer than necessary to your attacker. You can swing your keys at them and still protect yourself.

4. iPhone

If you have an iPhone and you push the lock button five times rapidly it will call local emergency services. Once the call is complete your phone will send you emergency contacts a text with your current location unless you choose to cancel.

5. Yourself

If it comes down to it, and I pray it never has to, but if you are put into a situation where you need to fight back, Do It. Get loud and push back aim your kicks and punches for the knees, groin, leg, eyes, mouth, nose, and ears. Do not step closer just to attack, instead of hitting him in the face with your hand kick him in the knee instead, then run and find help.

While I am no expert, all of this information is available to you on the internet and you just need to look for it and educate yourself of your state and local laws. Use the buddy system don’t walk alone at night if you can help it. Text or call a friend and let them know where you are. I pray you never have to use this information but if so I hope it helps, please just be safe out there.