As you know if you’ve followed my blog or social media, I love to be outdoors — especially for fitness. Whenever I can, I get out in the fresh air and ride my bike, power walk or go hiking.
While these are almost always wonderful experiences, unfortunately there is a dark side to being out there: personal safety can be at risk. I’ve had some very scary close calls. Once a man harassed me when I was alone on a road — a terrifying experience that I don’t care to relive ever again. But a more common problem has been the number of times an aggressive dog has run out after me or acted threatening.
These things almost always happen suddenly and unexpectedly, and the only way to deal with it is to be prepared to act quickly. I was very, very fortunate that during those incidents I was able to get away safely. But after that, I decided I would never again put myself in a situation where I didn’t have a way to defend myself.
I bought this handy small bottle of Sabre Red brand police-strength pepper spray from Amazon and I carry it EVERY time that I’m out walking or riding. If I’m on foot, I carry it in my hand either with the included velcro-and-elastic hand strap; or I take it out and hold it in my hand; or I keep it easily accessible in my pocket.
On my bike, I wrap the velcro hand strap around my handlebar, right in front so I can quickly grab it if I need to. I don’t keep it in the zippered pouch; that would take too long to pull it out. Remember, if a dog or person comes out after you, you won’t have time to dig through to find it. I want it right there where I can get it immediately.
While it’s not comfortable to think about the possibility of scary experiences happening, knowing I have this protection on me has felt very empowering. I have a lot more confidence now when I’m out there. If something (or someone) approaches me, I can defend myself if I need to. And I can assure you, their doing so would be a decision they’d regret.
I am always careful and don’t take stupid chances of course, but now I feel empowered and am no longer worried when I’m out there. It’s changed the whole way I carry myself. I think dogs sense that, too. Ever since I started carrying the spray, not one dog has chased after me on the road. I believe they now sense strength and dominance rather than my fear. As well they should.
The features of this particular model include:
- Immediately accessible – adjustable hand strap – practical protection while going for a run.
- #1 brand trusted by police and consumers worldwide.
- Made in the U.S.A.
- Protection at a safe distance against multiple threats – up to 10-foot range with 35 bursts in a powerful stream – ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, as it helps prevent wind blow back – only affects the target/person it directly contacts and makes indoor cleanup much easier.
- 4-year shelf life from date of manufacture (double the industry average) plus a free how-to-use video available online from the manufacturer.
This model is so inexpensive and easy to carry, I highly recommend buying several so that you can keep one on your bike, one for running or walking, one in your purse and one by your nightstand. It also makes a thoughtful gift for a family member or friend.
Hopefully you’ll never have to use it, but it’s cheap, non-lethal insurance. I’ll never be without one again.
Available conveniently from Amazon.com.
Note: I was not compensated by this manufacturer or provided product. I purchased this product myself, and am providing this honest review for informational purposes. This post contains Amazon affiliate links.
© Michelle Rogers, Inc.
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