I am a dog walker (still building my van) and people are always worried about me out walking dogs at night. I'm always saying that it is safer to walk with a dog at night than by yourself during the day. A dog knows when something isn't right long before you do. Even if the dog is a small dog that obviously isn't going to be able to physically protect you, they are going to alert you if someone is near. We just need to pay attention to what they are telling us.
Kerri-Anne Wilson Absolutely agree with you. I've had animals all my 70+ yrs mostly horses / mules but always 🐕 I camp a lot alone with my equine an 🐕 Talk about an alarm system my mules are the best. They are also extremely good judge of people and they know what we feel - happy - stress - anger. They can also be protective especially against stray dog or coyotes. So I rely on them to let me - whats up & Smith & Wesson is always my "Go To" for backup if needed. So far never needed.
I have a bunch of stickers that say, “I love my dogs.” Note the plural. The bad guys have to ask themselves: How many? and What kind? Add the LARGE metal dog bowl (which doubles nicely as a salad bowl) and like Bob says, the target is getting less and less easy.
I highly recommend a book by Jason Hanson "Alone and Unafraid". Jason is ex CIA, has been all over the world, and trains people in self defense and survival. His book is loaded with great tips for safety, security, cyber security, personal defense, disaster safety and security and so much more. He also has great tips for a Bug-Out Bag. Jason points out "Self- Defense classes are a Sham! The TRIDENT Self Defense Technique is efficient and is what the military and special forces use! I live in the country about an hour for the sheriff to arrive. I have a red laser pointer. Trespassers fled when I put the little red dot on them. They thought it was a laser on a rifle.
My girlfriend has a gun and has the red pointer on it too. She told me that it's a great deterrent as well. Once they see you've pointed it on them, most likely they will flee. That's good to know!
Hello, first of all, I'd like to thank you for sharing this information. I really like the camouflage ideas. I'm still viewing various videos and collecting information.
While I have a dog. I own a gun and am trained to use it and visit a gun range several times a year. As a woman I’ve been in threatening situations twice in my 60 years where I could have been raped, robbed or killed. I’m careful, so it was just dumb luck I wasn’t. But… the 2nd time I had a guy show up at 2:00 in the morning while I was sleeping. He was pulling on my door and trying to open a window. I grabbed my gun but instinctively knew I wouldn’t fire until he actively entered. What I did wasn’t planned, but a string of obscenities come and out my mouth. I was incensed and told him he didn’t know who he was messing with and I’d cut his gut. I actual acted degranged. He left, and I immediately drove straight away. Living my outdoor thing behind. I think I actually used my own “element of surprise to deter him.” Plus deranged. People are scared by deranged.
A very simple and natural self defense idea is something we did in the service which is: Lay dead sticks, branches around your camp at a distance. Point the open ends (broad branches) sides outward. This allows you a natural barrier from predatory animals but also a “1st line of defense” and “early warning (alarm) for the people. We where trained to “listen” for certain “noise triggers” so we still slept well. Hope this helps.
I carry a walking stick for my work (I walk the high voltage power lines in the Sierras in CA looking for tree hazards) and it has protected me against dogs multiple times. Self confidence and a strong loud voice are also important. We face challenges of angry customers and mountain lions and bears along with inanimate challenges. Listening to your inner voice is very important. Also. Don’t wear headphones.
I'm so glade your OK that happened to me I was camping but sleep I heard someone rattle my talegate i got up jumped in front seat drove tturn my car around to look all around with my car lights nothing back up parked again 20min later heard it again got up jumped in seat left all my gear i didn't care lolol slept at a Walmart came back when it was day light stuff was still there packed it took a namp but left after my 3hr namp. Just glade your OK
I've travelled a fair bit thru other countries including the states. I'm Canadian. I've been told " Don't look like a victim. Dress modestly. No jewelry or watches. Don't drink too much. Trust your gut. There's safety in numbers.
I love the whistle idea. Also don't be afraid to be rude. Normally I try to be polite and kind. however, when I was on vacation, alone, a guy came up right beside me while I was loading a 12 pack of soda into my car wanting to "help" me. I screamed BACK OFF like a crazy person. Trust me no one wants to deal with someone appearing touched. There were others close by so this worked. While he was saying he was just trying to help me, I kept screaming Back off, realizing no one needs help with objects under 5-10 pounds. I kept backing away screaming back off until I got to my door. Also I had immediately locked the car door after loading the end of my groceries and only unlocked my door as I was entering.
Everything you discussed was to prevent or deter. Most “Nomads” appear to be elderly. Always good to have situational awareness, but when it really counts proficiency with a firearm along with the proper mindset is the most important qualities you will ever possess that will save your life. I am 76 yo and never go anywhere unarmed.
Here are some other hints--especially for women. Find a buddy to watch self-defense videos and then practice the moves. If you can't find a buddy, imagine doing the moves over at night before going to sleep. Imagine different scenarios of criminal behavior and then see yourself responding to that behavior. This is a technique that has been proven to work. Hang a container of pepper spray and an alarm on your pocketbook. Make them highly visible but have other ones hidden in your clothing in case the criminal grabs your pocketbook. If you use the dog bowl trick make sure they look well used by a really big dog by denting them and scuffing them up. Learn how to break out of commonly used restraints and practice breaking out of restraints. Always let two different people know where you are going, what route you expect to take, and when you expect to get there. Set a time for authorities to be notified if you don't check in. If you offer a ride to someone else, take a photo of their driver's license and send it to the friends or family who have agreed to be your contacts during your trip. Carry two cell phones--your regular one and a burner phone. That way you will always have a charged phone in an emergency. If you are going really off-track invest in a GPS locator device such as ACR ResQLink 400 - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with GPS.
I am a man but still do the two chair thing when I camp alone. partly for the defensive reason you mentioned but also just because its nice to have more than one place to sit without moving the chair around all the time. I my life I have only had one encounter that I can pretty for sure say was going to become a problem , not sure what the final intent was of these guys but they were for sure up to no good. I was camping way up on a mesa by myself and had been riding my dirt bike around , came back to find two guys in my camp. they were both on four wheelers, I don't like to judge people by their cover but lets me honest sometimes just the look of a person will tell you they arent someone you want to be around. long story short they were asking me questions about my van and what I was doing up there, almost acting like they were cops or land owners who had some right to question me. I told them I was camping and did my best to make it pretty clear I didnt want to socialize but they didnt leave. they proceeded to hang out and light up a joint , offering it to me, I dont do that stuff and at that point I just asked them to leave, they got all "fake insulted" like as if I was being unfriendly for no reason but this was not a normal thing for people to be coming into a camp like that. Just on instinct I said "well I am headed out, going to go to town" loaded my bike got in the van and drove off, leaving the rest of my camp stuff there, I just felt like it was the right thing to do. they proceeded to follow me multiple miles down the mountain , cutting past me on their bikes and a couple of times actually stopping in the road, which was probably the most frightening because it was a narrow mountain road , no getting around them.I just kept going and figured if I had to I would run them over.luckily I didnt have to,finally reached the paved road where they doubled back and took off. I called the forest ranger station and told them what had happened and they actually sent a ranger to follow me back up to retrieve my stuff. I was very grateful that they were willing and able to do that. they had for sure gone back to it because my camp was trashed everything knocked over things broken but oddly nothing missing. to this day I have no idea what they were up to but I suspect they were probably looking to break in to the van while I was gone and I had caught them by coming back. kind of scary that they didnt just take off right then and instead chose to harass me.pretty sure they were drunk and high so maybe they just thought that was a fun thing to do right then. I think that it is valuable to have an escape plan and if it means ditching your stuff then so be it. I didnt feel comfortable so I went with my gut. not telling this to scare people, in all the years and years that I have camped and in all differant places I have never had anything like that happen aside from that one occasion.
As a single mother when my sons were young I would take my 2 sons and 2 nephews camping by myself 1st I always had a Dog, second I always had an extra chair with a man's coat and hat hanging on it ...
Another incident with a female bicyclist going across country with her child. (forgot if it was a son or daughter) Pitched camp. A couple of "friendly" guys came up to chat awhile. She felt creeped out and so moved her camp away and up a hill behind some bushes after they left. After dark, she saw flashlights shining, peeked and saw the guys had returned...and were walking around. Close call.
The one thing I ALWAYS have near me is WASP spray. Bear spray/ pepper spray can be illegal in some locations, especially if you have to park on the roadside (Walmart etc). Wasp spray sprays straight out in a stream, not fan out, it can get out over 10 feet, and it will stop a bad guy in his tracks. He can't get close enough to take it away. LOVE your channel....Marlene from Canada
Great video ! Something I do as a norm now is I have a few black towels in my vehicle - and a small black tarp. I'm one of those people that always has a collection of junk in the passengers floor area. I just cover it with a black towel - if someone peers in they can't see anything :) If I run into a store I cover other bags with the tarp or towel. When I'm parked it's always there covering stuff ... thieves will break your window for the stupidest thing or opportunity - even a quarter on your seat ! So don't let them see it :) Thanks Bob !!!
Black velvet works best for this. It absorbs light and appears like a black hole. That is actually what magicians use to make things 'disappear'. Have big pieces of black velvet to cover anything that would be visible in your vehicle.
I think a mound of stuff hooved up under a black tarp or towel would intrigue a thief more bcuz they would think to themselves that that person is going to great lengths to cover their stuff bcuz it's very valuable.
When I drove cross country in my Honda, I had a large piece of black matte fabric that I would put over everything in the back. As long as your stuff is stored neatly, the fabric creates an illusion. My interior was black so it worked exceptionally well. I’m going to do the same for my hatchback, also a black interior. BTW my car is old so doesn’t have a cd player or anything else someone might want. And I don’t keep the car all shiny, a little grunge makes it seem less attractive and not worth looking at.
"cane anecdote"--my grandfather worked at the Oklahoma State Capitol well into his 80s. Rode the bus. Used a good old wooden cane. One morning at the bus stop two young men tried to assault and rob him. He broke one of the arms of one of the guys, completely flipped the script on the "bad guys" plans. I'd say, though, get a wooden cane, not one of those lightweight hollow aluminum ones. Maybe check a thrift shop or two.
try to choose a rig that allows you to get into driver's seat without having to go outside, so you can just jump into the driver's seat and pull out without having to expose yourself to danger outside your rig
I read these comments and think, at first glance, that’s smart. Then think….circle around and scare them like you’re gonna run ‘em over! Well deserved. Stupid butt can’t help but think it would be great payback Ya I know. Could get hurt worse if they’re packing yet would maybe set a precedent and discourage them on the next campers
Believe it or not, some cats can also work as a deterrent if they alert you. My cats love visitors so they will always run to the door or start peaking through a window shade before I realize someone is there. Sometimes seeing a window shade moving is enough to spook someone once they realize they lost the element of surprise.
I liked the two chairs trick. And on the 99% chance that someone coming by isn't a predator it gives them a place to sit. I am also a fan of the motion activated lights (as mentioned by a woman a few hours before). Beyond safety they also alert for potential nighttime wildlife viewing. Most crime is property crime. I plan on having a working vehicle alarm, anti-shatter window film on all the windows, a safe inside (for important paperwork, credit cards, computer), a tile tracker in the van and two tire boots. That way I can feel better about leaving everything I own in the world behind if I choose to go on a day hike to see wildflowers or something special. Another useful emergency avoidance tool is a cell phone. A feature of most phones is that the GPS still works even outside of service areas. With many apps you can mark where your van is parked. That way you always know what direction home is and how far it is because branching trails are often not so obvious which was the right one to take. And it is possible to misjudge how fast you can walk vs when sundown occurs. Phones also come with built in flashlights if something unplanned happened and you need more light to get home.
Nice listing of security items. But the last thing, the cane, is by far the most formidable item you mentioned. You can fairly easily break bones, severely disable and even kill some bad types attacking you. Minimal online video training will give you a very big edge. And they can legally be carried into any building, store, campground, anywhere as they are a 'necessary medical device'
My cane saved me from getting run over in a grocery store parking lot. I was crossing the main road in front of the entrance and some jerk in big pickup started making a left turn right into me. I instinctively smashed my cane into his fender, denting it, and he immediately stopped and I wasn’t hurt. Canes are very good self defense weapons. My cc would not have helped me in that situation.
I fought a dude trying to take my dog in a remote mountain area. I used a bamboo ski pole that I found in montana. It's about 6-7ft, is super light, keeps the zombies at bay, has a nice metal sharp thing on the end already, if they grab it FINE, you re now in control . Now I'm 4'11" and I used one such pole to fend off a man trying to take my dog and drive off with her. I did a few things, but that POLE really bettered my odds. I got the dog out of his car and he ended up with a few "leaks" from his face. I carry a bamboo ski pole always. Concealed a fixed blade knife under your pants. Or underwear. I sleep with my knife. The concealable one. I have many others avail and ANYTHING can be uses to save your life. EAT well. EXCERSISE do STRENGTH training and such so your sheer power will put the hurt on
All awesome tips. Many good tips down below too, motion sensors outside your rig, alarm... It's not always easy to travel with dogs if you like to spend time in National Parks though. Another idea: I like plinking cans out in the desert. I always leave one freshly riddled with bullet holes outside my trailer. One gets the idea quick, right?
Freezing up is one of the biggest problems, most people freeze or flee from any unexpected situation. You can't really rely on others, there is also 'the bystander effect' where nobody ends up calling the police because they think someone else will do it. I've had experience with freezing, everybody fleeing when somebody needed help, nobody calling the cops while I was being chased (and shot at) by a lunatic with a rifle, etc. Determine that no matter what, that won't be you and you'll have a chance of acting. It's better to call the cops/911 even if it turns out somebody already did, because chances are high that nobody else did it.
The cops are never in a hurry to answer a call. But if several people call in, the dispatcher will alert police that there were several calls. A note for inner city dwellers, you will get quicker service if you call 5 neighbors before 911, be cause one call..... is just another call.
Great video. I have a German Shepherd and a 9mm........but the assumption is always that little old ladies such as myself are harmless/defenseless, LOL. Love the idea of carrying a knife on the hip......and I will start setting out two chairs.......I used to leave a pistol target with a few good groupings on the dash.......mixed feelings......gun to steal inside versus this person is armed and knows how to shoot.......
Badass video! I used to be Forensic Psych nurse at female Federal Prison. My patients were Netflix docu series killers. Sometimes that scraggly old woman you pass by every day really is burying the bodies! Stay frosty team!
Bob, your suggestions are spot on. When I was first divorced and empty nester, I left large sized mens boots and big dog bowls filled with big-sized dry dog food and beware of dog signs at various places around the outside of my home. Also alarm company stickers on windows. And I am not a nomad but your suggestions are still helpful. Thank you so much.
As a former judo instructor I can tell you anyone can be targeted but you are correct presenting yourself is very important. My instructor would say. "If you want to be a champion you must first look like a champion". A martial arts class is a great way to first make new friends that can actually fight and you learn how and feel better about everything.👍
I agree im in Brazil at the moment training Brazilian jiu jitsu even with the language barrier i can still communicate with everyone a lot people do speak a bit of English but iv definitely made friends in another country just through common interests.
I've come to realize that in a nursing career of 40+ years, my mind always goes to a solution to any situation. It's just a reflex to be prepared and think ahead. I'm 81 now and it has served me well. Life needs a Plan A, Plan B etc., think the Scouts your kids may have been in. Be Prepared, don't panic.
Bob, Great tips for safety! Thanks! There are also knives you can wear around your neck, I'll have to find mine before my next travels. One tip that worked well for me travelling alone was using a mannikin. I was a cosmetology student and had an extra hair cutting mannikin which is a head with hair on it that a student practices cutting hair on. I propped it up on a rolled up sleeping bag with a jacket on in the passenger seat, put a cap on it and it looked like I had a traveling companion. At times I would put it on a pillow along with a sleeping bag in the back of my van and it looked like someone was sleeping there. My friends tried to wake me up through the partially opened window and the head rolled off. We all had a good laugh. Maybe this would help a solo traveler. I'm looking for people to travel with. Sounds like that would be a lot of fun.
I'm a black belt from years ago. Although I wouldn't depend on my old training after all these years, the attitude and confidence I built in those 10+ years of training does 90% of the warding off. The perp can feel your confidence, see if you are aware of your surroundings or off in la-la land (listening to music and not able to hear someone approaching) and eye contact and body language makes the difference on whether you look easy or not worth it. IMO. I guess some things are unavoidable when you are in the wrong place at the wrong time (bullets flying by, someone shooting in your van while you are in it, etc..) , but there may be times you will never know that you were just passed over because of the way you presented yourself as you walked by or was spied upon.
Totally agree. I trained for years myself- still do but you are correct about confidence in the mind. Obviously one is not or should not be looking for a fight
I live in the SW and its legal to carry in most places so I have a S&W in a holster across my belly button area when trail riding alone. Its very visible and I've never needed it. But I go very remote untraveled trails mostly. The gun is mostly in case my horse gets hopeless serious injury & would need to be put down /& I Pray I'd have the nerve to do it.
I appreciate your excellent advice! I personally am highly trained. When it comes to a person that will never wants or needs that level of skill, like my daughter, who is physically disadvantaged. I taught her the same way of thinking. Situational awareness and the courage to do anything, like the whistle or a very bright strobe setting on a flashlight, will make you a hard target, attract attention and discourage would be attackers. She knows how criminals think, how to be in good places and how to get help if she ends up somewhere undesirable. If myself our any of my friends heard or saw something like that anywhere we would take action immediately to offer aid for any one in possible danger of any kind. Don't be afraid to ask for help, most people are good.
Concur with warnings about remote camping.. Just a couple things we experienced that one might consider also. We took a forest service road in Colorado which went 4 miles back. To get out, you had to drive to the end and turn around. Since the road was narrow, we opted to take a spot off the road, on a little knoll (not very steep and only about 30 ft back ). We planned to stay only a couple of days, knowing some rain would be coming when suddenly my back went out and just breathing put me into spasm, so barring a wildfire, we weren't moving. My husband drove 6 miles into town every day (we have a cargo trailer) to get ice for my back (consider that when you camp also). Because I couldn't move, we ended up having to stay a couple days of light rain - just enough to make it very slippery. Because of being on the slight incline we could get the vehicle out but not the 6x10 cargo trailer. We also didn't have cell service, but fortunately, we were able to drive the car into town to get a tow truck driver who was willing to come out that far, at the cost of nearly 300 dollars. Even the tow driver had a hard time with this very weird slippery mud. Also while there, there was this completely bizarre whirlwind that hit our camp (nowhere else), twisted the trunk of a healthy 50 ft aspen and dropped it 10 ft away from us while blocking the exit from our site to the main road. The dead trees were not affected ! My husband had a small hatchet, but against the healthy trunk of the tree (probably only 18 inch circum) it was pretty much useless. Fortunately a 4x4 truck came by and was able to chain up the tree and pull it aside but it wasn't even easy for him due to the limited area of the campsite and the weight of the tree. Also, while my husband made the daily trips into town to get ice for my back and anything else he needed to do, he was gone about 2 hours at a time so I was left alone, unable to move and without cell service. I had a lot of time to lay there and ponder all the mistakes we made or just need to consider in the future. The blessing out of all this was that when we got out, we were so tired that we just pulled into the first campground, which happened to be absolutely beautiful. They had 2 couples that hadn't showed up to be campworkers so they asked us to stay and we ended up staying 4 months as camp workers in the most beautiful family campground and had a wonderful experience while earning a few dollars
Oh wow. I feel for you. As a person who has had her back go out several times, I had it go out for 5 weeks once. I could barely lift my right foot and it felt like ice water running down my leg. I could not imagine being in a situation like yours. I'm wondering how you managed to even go to the bathroom. Thankfully you weren't alone and your husband sounds like a gem.
Wow! I'm glad that y'all made it out it of that bad situation, then found something unexpectedly nice! I was actually thinking about working camps and parks when I get to retire...
Never display anything with your name on Example Bob's nest Above the door to your rig Mary's camper A criminal will see your name on something He will immediately call you by your 1st name Hoping you will think You've met him before so you let your guard down That's when He will strike
I was in Ajo AZ last January in a campground. A man stopped at my camp for a few minutes and ended up inviting me to his home for a home cooked dinner. The alarms went off. All I could think of was why would someone invite a complete stranger to their home? I could have been a serial killer for all he knew. He could have been a serial killer for all that I knew. I didn't go to dinner. You have to consider the possibilities and protect yourself on the road. Thanks Bob for the information that you give.
Hi. Great video. I have a German Shepherd service Dog named Archer. Your absolutely right about having a dog for protection. If I was attacked I don't believe my dog would protect me, but the predator doesn't know that. The reason Archer probably wouldn't protect me is, your not supposed to train service dogs for personal protection. Archer has to be non-aggressive with everyone. Yet I don't know that for sure because I have never been attacked. That's the point right?
I always pack heat when camping and hiking. About 30 years ago, I was followed by a mountain lion in a California forest. The mountain lion was more curious than agressive but I was sure glad I had my little buddy with me on that hike.
I was thinking that a good deterrent might be to wear your underpants on the outside like the super heroes do. Seriously though this is all good advice and I also thought of the one about setting up a tent and sleeping in the vehicle after being woken by someone or something on two legs walking around my camp.
I almost always have at least one defense tool on me, plus I'm never more than 2 feet from another tool anywhere inside my van or outside any door to it. If considering a cane for self defense, Cold Steel makes a number of virtually indestructible canes/walking sticks with defensive uses in mind. Your nomad toolkit probably already includes a hammer, but you can get a holster for your hammer online or at a hardware store for just a few bucks, and no one will ever question you walking around with a hammer on your belt.
Great tips, I use the two chairs (the old aluminum frame webbing ones) plan. I also put tape on any cords & hoses so they don't look as attractive & also cover the little lights on extension cords so they don't draw attention. Wasp spray (the stream type), a whistle, & extra fire extinguisher are in my defense arsenal.
Add a really loud alarm system to your rig and have the remote alarm button on you. Be able to run and wear proper shoes, never sandels. Trust your gut and leave an area. Have minimal possessions and be ready to leave them behind.
Everyone watches YT videos. Have you ever noticed how many of the people in them (both victims and predators) wear flip flops? I know that many people are trying to redefine the word 'stupid', but really!
@@Frantic618 Great response! As an instructor I would ask where are running to and can put run the bad person and if that person catches you, do you still have the energy to fight?
one thing i can recommend is also consider using red lights at night, rather than white lights.. they allow you to see at night and don't create as much attention as a bright white light. They also keep your night vision in tact. I would say also be aware of what shines on your vehicle, such as glossy paint or glass or chrome etc. when camping you may want to cover up those bits as well. Or camo them, so to speak (duct tape, non glossy paint/primer. Look for sharp angles or straight lines on your vehicle and other items you have outside.. you can drape some material over the lines ot breakup the linds some. I think someone mention using come kind of camo colored tarp an applying it to vehicle with magnets. the tarp could be bunch or wrinkled up a bit to give more blending in with vegetation? I think the bear spray or pepper spray, the whistle and bright flashlight or a couple of them.. and use of decoys are good..I have heard how it is helpful to have a decoy or dummy wallet as well.. in case someone asks you for your wallet or money.. you can pull out the cummy wallet that may have expired cards in it and other things that upon quick glance look real.. and perhaps a few dollars in it.. perhaps the dollars could even be photo copies of money.. perhaps even place a bluetooth tracker in the wallet so you can retrieve it once it is dumped by the theif into a trash can or in a bush? Apple's newest ihones now come with built in ability to call for help via satelite.. this might also be helpful. Also, there is a smart phone app that allows you to communicate between smart phones by just using wifi between them. And if there are more than two connected to the mesh network.. you can have a chain of them reaching longer distances.. but in any case you might want to explore these apps that allow your smart phone to work like a walkie talkie without internet access
Helpful stuff! And, positive reinforcement of choices I've made so far. Have 2 dogs. They are great alarm systems as well. Have traveled with dogs from get-go. If without them, would likely hang with groups more. Have solar-powered motion detection lights screwed onto both sides and rear of rig - occasionally activated by small wildlife but that's OK! Carrying a whistle in my EDC belt bag. If parking in non-drive-thru spaces I always try to park pointed in direction I want to drive out - not having to back out. In permitted parking lots I choose well-lighted sites, even within view of security cameras. I do the 2-chair thing, have passed on the big boots thing. In LTVA form quasi-group by getting to know at least one "neighbour". Have various sprays but I don't carry them routinely. Carry a large pocket knife hanging from belt routinely, but 2-handed opening so not a disincentive. In future, will hang a fixed-blade knife instead, if in more isolated, remote-ish setting. Thinking about getting a stun gun that is fashioned as a hiking stick - Have seen it on Amazon. Enjoying your series, Bob, and looking forward to next installment.
I had my knife taken from a police officer. In plain view, sheathed. Said it was illegal even though it was fixed blade but he didn't take my machete or hatchet which were also in view. This was in Minnesota
Thank you, Bob, great ideas! Instead of a cane, I recommend having a good pair of trekking poles, which you can use one or both while walking or hiking. They take pressure off your knees and back, help keep your balance especially on uneven terrain, and don't make you appear like an invalid. They have a sharp point at the ends which can serve as a deadly weapon against wild animals or bad guys. I've even been trained how to use them to ward off bears by waving them around in such a way to make yourself look bigger while yelling and making big noise to scare them away. They can be used as a tarp support, use them to pitch an emergency shelter, or assist with rescue. The collapsible ones like I have take up very little room, can be carried in your backpack, and can serve as crutches if you injure yourself out on the trail. They are actually useful tools in so many situations that they are an essential piece of gear in my opinion. I am not a full-time van-camper, yet I keep a pair in my van at all times.
I stay present & focused when walking, looking around & watching folks if they are anywhere near. I dont look like a victim & they know it. If walking to my car I keep my keys in hand to both use as a weapon & enter my car quickly. I also have 2 dogs who will alert when anything comes near.
The knife is great idea. Having a sharp and handy knife has prevented a few tragedies in my life. My dog got tangled up and I cut him out before damage was done.
I've taken so many self defense courses. Never had to defend myself, but it's really boosted my confidence. I have a fantasy about saving myself and others, but I hope to keep it a fantasy.
As a full timer from 1984-1990 my safety guidebook was The Gift of Fear by Gavin DeBecker. My " safety gear" included a Starter's Pistol, a FAKE stick of dynamite (that I made out of a dowel) and a buck knife. Your advice is excellent! Thank you.
Hi Bob, these are valuable, thank you, even if one stays in sticks and bricks....a number of years ago I was walking home from work, ( I rented an outside room in someones yard). The supermarket where I was working closed at 9pm. About a block from where I was staying was a lot of pine trees and bush, that I had to walk past in order to get home. I heard these footsteps behind me and I thought I was hearing my own foot steps so I slowed my pace to hear if it was. This was someone running towards me in the dark, not many street lights... so I turned to see who was running towards me. I knew if I ran I would not see the light of day, so I did the next best thing (after an anxious prayer). I waited for the person to get to me as I knew I could not out run this person. He slowed down to a slow walk when he got within maybe 7 or 8 meters or so from me. He could not make out why I had waited....anyway he said it was unsafe for me to walk alone, so I told him to walk with me, ( I was silently praying all the way). when I got to where I was staying, I suddenly turned in at the gate, once inside I said thank you to this man and I disappeared into the house and not to my room at the back, as I did not want him to know that I stayed in the yard of these peoples house.
When parked at Walmart parking lots or truck stops, I have had strangers knock on my door. I don't open the door but go to the window and open a crack to see what they want. They usually make up some story that they are looking for someone and thought I was that person. This has happened several times. Don't just open your door to a stranger. One guy asked to use my bathroom. I was like "use the one in Walmart." I think he was looking to get inside my RV to steel it or to look for medications in the bathroom.
I am a single woman who travel's with two girls every year. These are the best and most realistic tips I've ever received. I will be using them. GREAT VIDEO! Thank you!🔥❤️🌲
I gave our dog to my son when my husband passed away. I was in no shape to deal with a dog then. But now that I’m going to pick up my new Scamp trailer soon, I’ve taken the dog back for the extra security. I’m going to incorporate many of your other ideas. Looking for a camping buddy.
Good advice, situational awareness is critical; my best defense is my legally carried firearm and being familiar with the current states laws on reciprocity and use of force.
Wow. I've learned soooo much not only from the video above but also from spending 2 hours reading a lot of the suggestions and ideas in the comment section. I now have much to think about.
Love reading the additional related comments also. Can’t help but also add I’d do all these things if I had a rig again yet it would be so easy to forget there’s not a man along as you get to visiting with “neighbors” so you’d have to maintain that fib until it felt right; if at all.
I take a course every 8-10 yrs. Things change so much it's good to stay up on this. The last one was given by a black belt. It was phoenomial, he taught some really great things!!! And it was free!!!!
I have a Labrador retriever that l take everywhere with me. She’s well trained and friendly to everyone but a couple of times she’s growled and started barking when we were camping and l always praise her and am glad l have her for so many reasons.
Hello Bob, all tips you’ve mentioned are great. What I recommend and I myself have in my vehicle, is a very loud siren that when turned on will be heard for a long distance. I don’t think a criminal wanting to commit a crime will want to be near when this siren is turned on, he’ll run as quick as a skunk into the woods. The loud sound will make his head spin, he won’t know who can show up. My Best To You Bob, Thank You for all you do. Roland.
Many areas have self-defense courses as a free course when you look at the recreational programs. I know I taught art and basic self-defense in Missouri through the department of Recreation. I think they charged $15 for the self defense one course. It's well worth looking into PS... I used my air horn when a bear was outside of my van🐻🏵
My thought too-Rec Departments often have low-cost SD classes, also u can contact local PDs to find out location/contacts for self-defense resources. Maybe local martial arts businesses will have suggestions? Glad to know I practice several of Bill's cautions -probably instincts from living in cities! Laughed at the idea about setting out men's boots in camp. I came on a pair of well worn black cowboy boots-size 16! several yrs. ago. Those have perched on my home front porch on occasion. Forest fire warning also hit a nerve. Lived in Paradise, CA sev. yrs. ago, later moved to the PNW. Visited the house and neighborhood where I lived in Paradise months after the firestorm -everything burned to the ground, burned out cars in front yards and all trees & vegetation in cinders. I collected some quartz rocks from my old yard - the pieces turned to powder when picked up. Frightening and very sad for folks who were trapped within minutes.
Thanks, Bob. I have a 70-lb dog but your comments about normalcy bias apply even when having tools. WeI need to be prepared to act. Practicing a drill for having the dog confront someone, using the radio, deploying the stun gun or sound device are important.
Thank you Bob! I think it's great that you have a platform to get this information out to all the oblivious people out there. LOL Another thing that will entice a bad guy is habitual behavior. If you wander off to shower at 8:00 every morning and you're gone for 'X' minutes, you and your campsite are EZ targets. In the natural world, habitual behavior gets you killed by predators.
Excellent recommendations. Liked the cane and camouflage the best. I recommend three books everyone should read 1) The Gift of Fear by Gavin deBecker 2) Spotting Danger Before it Spots You by Gary Dean Quesenberry (retired Air Marshall) and 3) There I Was When Nothing Happened by Jason Brick. These are excellent and thought provoking. That last one BTW is a series of scenarios that could have gone way south in a hurry but didn't because of how they were managed. Each scenario is described by the person they happened to and they are all different. If I had to choose only one of the three I would pick The Gift of Fear.
Hi Bob! I liked the camouflage section a lot. I already possess a knife and cane as well as a stun gun. But I like the dog bowls, tent set-up and big boots ideas. Also, just having stickers to beware of dog, video taping and such helps too. Lots of serial killers are nice looking white males, not just creepy looking dudes. I've watched many many "I Survived" episodes and most all survivors save themselves. There's no knight in shining armor or cop waiting, although a few off duty cops have driven by savagely hurt victims on the road and picked them up. Some servicemen too but the general homeowner won't open their door to a bloody victim, though they will call 911. Lots of criminals act like broken down on the side of the road, asking for help. Don't stop. Call the police to help them. It could mean life or death. Thank you for all of your instructional videos of all topics!
Thanks! I go camping almost every week from spring to fall alone. I am very Thankful I happened on to your channel “Cheap RV Living” “I call it Safety RV-ing”. I am going to pass this on to my family and Friends & put it on my Face Book page Thank you 🙏
Another great self defense item for nighttime is an insanely bright flashlight. You can buy flashlights of up to 100,000 lumens on Amazon, many of them under $100. Cover your eyes, blast it in their face on the highest setting and they’ll be seeing nothing but retina burn for the rest of the night.
Thnx Bob....great info...especially for newbies...I do most of what you teach.and I,m a 75 yrold,Solo,female...In my Skoolie...I keep curtains closed and put...NO chairs out...so you cant tell Who,What or How many are inside..always park...facing out..have great $12 ,Amazon,Solar motion lite... sensor lite....ALWAYS,walk..head up,briskly,shoulders back( you look strong and confident)...I,ve only had one minor incident..in Three years....guy was doped up,banging,yelling on my window..(late,in a parking lot).I simply...drove off
I worked as a CO in prisons for 20+ years...I asked the same question. Barking dogs lights, and cameras.......pepper spray and a car antenna (it acts like a whip and hurts like hell), knife for personal carry...........and a very bad attitude towards creeps. Law enforcement are trained for officer survival. I'm 72 and I can pick them out in a crowd, and they me. Picture a dog cowering in a corner, you can probably walk by and kick them.......same dog, watching you, low growl.......attitude is everything.
I think having a loud public address system on your vehicle that you can activate from your drivers seat AND the interior of your vehicle is a game changer. Getting a Simply Safe type of alarm system makes sense as because it can tell you if someone is attempting to break in by phone, even if you are no where near your rig. Having tiny cameras showing you the front, back, & sides of your rig is brilliant to fight back if vandals want to do damage in the middle of the night. Record a barking dog and play it through the PA may give a vandal the idea you’re a hard target - and flashing exterior lights wouldn’t hurt!
Don’t be afraid, but if you are caught off guard look for a rock or stick. When I hike I’m always evaluating sticks and rocks as a self defense weapon. It’s like running drills in the military. And don’t be afraid to be or act rude as you move towards a weapon or to a safer position.
Two of the most damaging weapons that you've always go with you are your feet. Your feet and legs are the strongest part of your body. Don't bother trying to kick a guy in the groin, it's instinctive for him to protect that area. Try to kick him as hard as you can on his knee, preferably from the outside. It's very painful and paralyzing (my dog hit me there just doing zoomies -- PAIN!). If he knocks you down, or you fall down, GREAT! Brace or shift your position with your arms, and kick, kick, kick! His knees are good targets from the ground, too. **evil grin**
I had a job around "Special " students. I don't know any official diagnosis or official mental health diagnosis, but, I overheard enough conversations and witnessed enough 17 year old behavior to be aware of "bully" behavior. Literally one female told me that my student, who was small of stature, shouldn't go into the bathroom because the big guys would beat him up--for no reason. And the girls did it to another girls. This was at a "nice public high school." This brain behavior shocked me. Just be aware.
Love these tips Bob, especially the ones helping someone not to be a target in the first place. Also, not all threats have two legs, e.g. forest fires.
I recently bought a popup trailer. I have wired in a 110 decibel house alarm siren underneath the trailer with a momentary switch inside (tucked up so it can't be hit easily). If we wake up in the night to a person or a bear, it will most likely be enough to ward them off.
Thanks for the tips. The dog is a great tip, but I have a cat that doesn't tolerate other animals. The dog bowl...excellent. I thought about the # of chairs out and lights but you have some great ideas!
I have to think the bad guys are already aware of the boots thing. I was thinking a XXL dirty/stained camo hunting jacket draped on the chair or another variation to the boots. An ash tray with a 1/2 smoked cigar on the pic nic table, you get the idea... be creative!
Let`s talk about this. "Create Camouflage", this is one I thought I knew a lot about. I was wrong. This video showed a lot I never knew. This entire video was full of good info.
I'm not a person who travels for long periods of time. But I think that these tips that you are sharing are awesome. Because you can use many of these ideas at your home or at a hotel or in any situation or any place you may find yourself. So thanks Bob these are some very good precautions that anybody can use to stay safe wherever you may be. Take care.
I always thought an audio recording of a shotgun or rifle being racked/loaded would be good to play when motion-sensor security lights were activated. Everybody knows that sound! Or, the recording of a vicious dog barking.
I was in a situation once where I was camped alone up on a hill about a 30 minute drive off the pavement. I woke up about 3AM and noticed 2 vehicles coming down the road I was above, the 2nd vehicle with it's headlights off. Because the hill blocked the road in front of me, I was watching the road, waiting to see them come out from behind the hill, continuing down the road past my little turn off. They never did. Then I saw a helicopter, low and slow, like it was looking for something/someone. I kept watching... A few minutes later I saw the blue/red lights of 2 police cars coming down the road. I had cell/internet service so I tuned into the local county sheriff's scanner page, hoping to find out wtf was going on. I didn't hear anything about why they were out there, just a couple traffic incidents elsewhere. About 45 minutes later, a vehicle comes up to my campsite, sees my vehicle and stops, a minute later, the vehicle slowly crept closer to my rig. There was only 1 way out and the vehicle was blocking my way! As a solo female I was pretty scared. All I could think of was to crank the sound of the scanner up and hope the driver would the think I was some kind of undercover law enforcement., so I turned on my Bluetooth speaker and cranked it. As soon as the radio crackled, the vehicle stopped, about 50 feet from my rig, and then backed out of my campsite and went back down the road. I have a police scanner website bookmarked now! Hopefully I'll never need to use it for that reason again! 🙏 Safe travels
Model Mugging is a woman’s self defense course that takes three days to learn. It was developed by a black belt woman police officer who was raped. 30 years after taking this course, I can protect myself even now as an older woman. I would highly recommend it to any woman, young or old.
Really good tips. I use the two chair method. The goal is safety is never let the criminal get near you, so the whistle sounds like a great idea. Self defense class will help in preventing the criminal from attacking you in the first place, by looking confident and not an easy target. In the end, a Gun is probably the best form of defense, but I respect your stance on firearms.
