If you were to put a group of widows in a room and ask them their top 5 fears you would probably get answers that go something like this, “I’m not afraid of much, I’ve lived through the worst thing that could ever happen to me” and then a pause, “but I’m still getting used to being in a house by myself. I really don’t like it” Or “I worry about finances, the future, but I also worry about my safety. I’m scared to death of guns. What would I do if someone broke in? I have no idea!”
Fortunately, there are many options for taking charge of our safety. Check online in your local city for self-defense classes. Often these classes are held through the Parks and Recreation in early Fall and Spring. If you are in a University area you may also want to check with the University system and see what they have available. Finally check with local gyms or the Y. You can also go to www.lesson.com and they will walk you through a series of questions about your fitness level, age, and whether you are interested in martial arts or traditional kickboxing self-defense. They will take that data and recommend the top programs near you.
The next option in self-defense would be non-tactical guns such as pepper spray or mace guns.
They look exactly like handguns and they shoot with the same pinpoint accuracy. However, you are shooting non-deadly pepper spray. Many of these guns can hit targets up to 150 feet away. Their prices range from minimal to over $600. Most law enforcement in this country use the JPX4 which has a laser for precision and accuracy. It is a target shot, which means you will get a 2-foot wide coverage with this type of spray. You can purchase this gun in our online store https://www.amazon.com/Pepper-Bundle-Practice-Cartridges-Holster/dp/B078LXJ8Z3/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=jpx+4&qid=1605448289&sr=8-1
Another excellent option at a lower price point is the Mace Pepper Gun. It shoots with accuracy to 20 feet. It does not have a laser but has a distracting strobe light. It has 6-8 shots per canister. https://www.amazon.com/Mace-Defense-Police-Strength-Pepper/dp/B006VK6Y5I/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=mace+pepper+gun&qid=1605450336&sr=8-3 For some women, having a pepper spray gun will bring a sense of security without the stress of having a gun in the home.
For those women who would like to own a gun, you must go through the process of concealed carry permit. You can contact your local police department to ask them for a recommendation of where and whom to take the concealed carry class from. Local gun shops are also a great source of help and information. Once signed up for the class be prepared to be engaged! The class involves lecture time, a test, and range exposure. It is during range shooting that your instructor can help you decide what kind of weapon is right for you.
You may also call your local police department non-emergency number. Tell them your name and explain that you are a widow. Ask them to do a drive-by of your home at specified times that you are uncomfortable during the night. Local police are also usually more than happy to escort you into your home upon reentry from an absence from your residence.
Living alone does not have to be a frightening experience. With the right tools and training you can feel completely educated, safe, and empowered in your surroundings. It begins with making the decision to make a decision.