What are some self-defense and home security essentials?

I don’t have a firearms license (Canada), and getting one is on hold for some time. Even then, I likely won’t be able to afford a firearm for a while. What are some good alternatives for self-defense?

In the event of a grid-down scenario, how would you best secure a home in an urban environment, and what kind of materials should you have?

Self-defense is mostly about situational awareness, avoidance, and de-escalation. Avoiding bad situations is 99.9% of self-defense. For home security, focus on good locks, exterior lighting, and keeping entry points clear of obstructions. Being vigilant in your neighborhood is also key.

@Frost
Good locks won’t help if your door frame isn’t reinforced. Most residential doors are easy to kick in. Reinforcing the frame is crucial.

A dog is a great deterrent. Even if it’s not aggressive, barking can scare off intruders. Pair that with pepper spray and a solid bat or club for a layered defense strategy.

Oli said:
A dog is a great deterrent. Even if it’s not aggressive, barking can scare off intruders. Pair that with pepper spray and a solid bat or club for a layered defense strategy.

We have a Chihuahua. He’s small but mighty!

Security starts with community. Build strong relationships with your neighbors and be a good member of the neighborhood. Beyond that, consider tools like a spear for close-quarters defense, combined with smart home design to funnel intruders.

@Westley
Build a strong community but also, never underestimate a good spear as a backup plan. Bonus points for stairs to slow them down!

Invest in perimeter protection like solar-powered motion-detecting lights, cameras, and secure gates. Inside, less-lethal tools like pepper spray or a paintball gun loaded with rubber ammo can work well in Canada.

A crossbow is a decent option, but it can be hard to reload in a pinch. Bear spray or a greased-up aluminum bat for close range are good choices. Also, consider installing motion lights and cameras to deter intruders.

@Aubrey
What’s the idea behind greasing up a bat?

Skylar said:
@Aubrey
What’s the idea behind greasing up a bat?

If someone grabs it, they won’t be able to hold on. It gives you an advantage in close combat.

For home security, install an alarm system, motion-activated lights, and a Ring doorbell. Reinforce your doors with long screws in the deadbolt plates and keep motion-activated lights on your home’s exterior.

Consider building a PVC bow. They’re cheap, effective, and can be great for close-to-mid-range self-defense with some practice.

Lighting and cameras are your best friends. Use solar power and motion detection to eliminate the element of surprise and make intruders rethink their actions. Awareness is better than firepower in most cases.

Home defense is all about layers. Start with strong locks and lighting, but also get to know your neighbors. A good community is your first line of defense.

Solar-powered motion lights are inexpensive and highly effective for lighting up dark areas around your home. Combine them with a good alarm system.