Self-Defense Gear for College Students
A study from the Cleary Center, a national nonprofit focused on promoting campus safety, found 82% of American college students are concerned about their personal safety. The study, conducted with ADT, also found that more than half of respondents said they were “very” or “extremely” concerned.
Options like security escorts, prevention programs, and even calling a friend are available, though the study found very few students take advantage of them for fear of judgment from peers. However, these options leave a notable gap in college safety that can be filled with personal safety devices.
What are personal safety devices?
Most people carry their mobile phone and hope they will be able to contact authorities or a friend in the event of an emergency. Unfortunately, this is not often possible in the event of a sudden threat, and this is where personal safety devices are most important.
Devices like pepper sprays, pepper gels and personal alarms provide an immediate defense for college students in the event of an unexpected encounter. They are inexpensive, compact, easy to carry, and effective, especially with practice.
Personal safety devices for college students
Pepper spray, pepper gel, and personal alarms are ideal for use by college students in unfamiliar areas, those walking alone – especially at night, and at large events. Used alongside awareness and limiting alcohol intake, personal safety devices are an excellent way to protect yourself.
Pepper spray
Pepper spray is a common deterrent used by millions of people to temporarily incapacitate a subject in the event of an attack. This spicy deterrent irritates the eyes and causes burning and pain sensations, with inflammatory effects that can cause the eyes to shut. The primary ingredient in pepper spray is called Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), the oil extracted from a hot pepper. Choose a pepper spray with the longest fire range (SABRE pepper spray is among the farthest, at 14 feet) and select the carrying method that works best for you – keyring, pocket-sized lipstick tube, hand strap, belt clip, or bike strap.
(Click here to read our complete guide to pepper spray)
Pepper gel
Pepper gel, like pepper spray, is a deterrent against a threat. The primary difference is its delivery method. Pepper gel has the same active ingredient as pepper spray – Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) –but with a thicker, gel-like formula that provides more precision and less risk of blowback. The use of pepper spray versus pepper gel comes down to personal preference and situational use – confined versus open spaces. SABRE offers the same carry methods available in a spray, so you can select the options that best fit your lifestyle and use cases. (Click here to read our pepper gel explainer.)
Personal alarms
Personal alarms are exactly what you would probably think: a small device with a piercingly loud alarm to attract the attention of others and deter an attack in dangerous situations. They are particularly useful, since personal alarms can be taken into places where other devices are not allowed, such as concert halls, arenas and the like. The SABRE device has a 130dB alarm, which is akin to the sound of a racing stock car or jackhammer.
Is pepper spray legal on college campuses?
It is legal in most states to carry pepper spray for self-defense, but the rules may vary by school. Always check your college policy before bringing pepper spray to campus or class. That said, many schools allow pepper spray under certain thresholds and provided it is clearly marked and only for personal safety use.
How do I use pepper spray or pepper gel?
The most important thing for a college student using a personal device is that it is accessible. That is why numerous carrying options are available.
When needed, hold it firmly in the palm of your hand and use your thumb to deploy it. Gripping and firing this way gives you the greatest control, accuracy and aim. Then,
- Twist the top to engage or lift the top to place your thumb on the lever.
- Extend your arm and aim for the center of the face.
- Move left to right from ear to ear, across the eyes.
- Spray in one continuous stream for maximum effect.
- Run away immediately.
Practice deploying pepper spray before you need it with water-based trainers or empty canisters. Practice containers are also available.
How should I carry my personal alarm?
Like pepper spray and pepper gel, what’s most important is that it is accessible. If you are particularly concerned, hold the device in your hand and your finger ready to press the alarm.
Personal protective devices for college students should be used alongside behavior-based habits, such as walking in groups, using on-campus resources like security escorts, avoiding unfamiliar places or large parties where you don’t know anyone, and limiting alcohol consumption. Taken together, you’ll be ready for almost any situation.