In this post, Michelle Cerino dives into the details of what happens when you need to defend yourself in a “gun free” zone. From the tool options, to coverage from CCW Safe in these personal defense situations, she covers it all. Read on to learn more about staying protected in a “gun free” zone. ~ The Editors
CCW Safe’s plans come with a range of add-ons, such as coverage for spouses, additional bond support and protection against civil liability. All those benefits are great for carrying a gun, but what happens when you’re in a location where you can’t carry one for personal defense? What happens when you’re in a “gun-free” zone and need to use another tool to defend yourself? Fortunately, CCW Safe also extends coverage to incidents occurring in these environments, providing peace of mind for their members – even when they defend themselves with gun-free zone, self-defense tools.
According to the CCW Safe website, a self-defense incident is any incident where force is used pursuant to a reasonable belief that use of deadly force is necessary to protect from imminent danger of death or great bodily harm. This includes any necessary force with ALL weapons and physical force to defend against a life-threatening attack in self-defense.
First, if you plan on carrying a firearm for personal protection, it’s imperative to know the laws in your state and any state you plan to visit. In all states, carrying a gun in federal facilities is illegal. Some examples include National cemeteries, post offices, airports, National Park buildings, military bases and more. Also, school zones are a no-no, which consists of the building and 1,000 feet of surrounding area. Each state may have additional laws that you must learn. What are your options when you are in those locations? What tool can you legally carry should the need arise to defend yourself?
Here is a list of the most common non-lethal options for self-defense:
Now, don’t just head out and purchase from this list. You still must determine which items are legal in your particular circumstance. Then, do some online research, contact friends and ask family members what tools they use. Next, after considering what you may want to carry, look for training in your area and take it! And once that’s done, practice often.
It’s imperative to train with any self-defense tool you choose to carry. You must learn how to deploy your weapon of choice quickly and use it effectively. Consider pepper spray. You want to be able to remove it from your purse (or wherever you carry it) in a way that puts your thumb right where it needs to be with the nozzle pointing away from you. On a side note, if pepper spray is your choice, buy yourself an inert version (which contains water) so you can practice spraying it and determine how far and wide the stream goes. You DO NOT want to practice with real pepper spray – even if you don’t plan on spraying it. Don’t risk the chance of exposing yourself or someone nearby with those chemicals.
I had the opportunity to experience using inert pepper spray with Brian Hill during an all-women’s weekend training event called The Mingle. I also had the opportunity to take a self-defense knife training class with Martial Arts Grand Master Jeff Hall of Force Options. Both of these experiences helped me gain an appreciation for the self-defense item in my hand and gave me the foresight to know I need more training with each tool. However, I also know that I could turn to either of those tools in a dangerous encounter to defend myself.
Before leaving your house for the day with a non-firearm self-defense tool, it’s essential to ensure that the item you’re bringing is legally permissible in your area. A great starting point is to consider tools that are universally allowed, as they can always be with you without concern. For example, a flashlight (without an aggressive bezel), whistle and personal alarm can be carried everywhere without legal issues. However, tools like a Kubotan or tactical pen can be categorized differently depending on local laws, so it’s important to conduct thorough research before taking them along.
You never know when you might find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, requiring the need to defend yourself. In some situations, you may have a self-defense tool readily available, but in others, that may not be the case. When that happens, you can turn to your surroundings to find an improvised weapon. Consider any heavy or sharp object that can serve as a means of protection, such as a lamp, rock or a garden tool. Look around right now as you are reading this. What is a nearby item you could use to defend yourself if needed?
I believe the most important part of defending yourself in a life or death situation is knowing to never give up and use whatever means possible. It’s reassuring to know that all CCW Safe plans cover the use of any legal weapon, including improvised weapons, to defend yourself or a third party from a life-threatening attack. This inclusive approach guarantees that you’re protected no matter which self-defense tool you choose to use. This is especially encouraging for those of us who often encounter “gun-free” zones, where traditional self-defense tools might not be accessible.
When someone decides to carry a firearm for personal protection, it’s important to find a company that provides legal self-defense coverage, and CCW Safe is a solid option. They offer a variety of membership plans tailored to different needs, including those specifically for military personnel and law enforcement officers. Additionally, there are group plans available, which can be ideal for organizations like church security teams, as well as options for both permit and non-permit holders.
Learn how you can become a member at CCWSafe.com.
Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and FASTER Saves Lives. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore. View all posts by Michelle Cerino
