Nobody expects a fire in their home, yet everyone has a fire extinguisher. Doesn't it make sense to protect your life-and the lives of your family-in the same way? Imagine walking down a street one day and you hear footsteps approaching behind you. What if you are standing in your kitchen and a stranger appears at your backdoor? Would you know what to do if someone is following you in your car?These situations might seem like they have come straight out of a crime series but unfortunately, they are very real.According to the FBI, a violent crime happens every 25.6 seconds. To put this into perspective, the average American spends 26 minutes commuting to work. That gives a criminal 60 opportunities to commit a crime against you in this time alone.These statistics aren't intended to scare you. Instead, they are here to inspire you to prepare for life-threatening situations. Instead of fearing the worst, you have the ability to spot signs of danger before they manifest. You can take steps to calm yourself and handle acts of crime with confidence. And above all, you can stay safe!The truth is that carrying a concealed weapon isn't for everyone. The right mindset and knowledge are crucial, not to mention the necessary skills. And for those who aren't comfortable with firearms? There are plenty of alternatives for self-protection and self-defense. But the question remains the same, where do you start?Picture a book that has the professional skills of a road trooper, a medevac pilot, a paramedic, a cyber crimes investigator, and a unit supervisor of a firearms investigation unit...to name a few. This is exactly what you have here.In this guide to personal self-defense through non-lethal methods and firearms, here is just a fraction of what you will discover: The key components of situational awareness and how understanding your environment is the first step to personal safety How to stay safe in your home with non-lethal self-defense techniques-from pepper gel to the simple use of a large pair of boots (Hint: You won't be wearing them!) Next level road safety explaining the importance of "Move Over" and "Cover Your Brake" as well as why you should never engage in road rage A complete guide to firearms and what to consider when choosing one, with bonus tips on selecting the right ammunition, clothing, and holster Insider tips from New Jersey State Police Academy on how to stay calm and focused when under pressure How to spot danger through abnormal patterns and subtle body language signs-with practical exercises for you and your family The power of trusting your instincts and how this saved one woman's life when she faced the Night Stalker in 1984 Your responsibilities when carrying a concealed weapon including permits, emotional preparedness, and liabilities Firearms skills to boost your confidence from drawing your weapon to maintaining balance with the right stance And much more.