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Handgun-Shotgun Training Specialists

Personal Safety and Firearms Training

Located in Rochester Hills, MI Contact us Mon. - Sun. 8am - 9pm at: Phone: (248) 844-8274 Fax: (248) 844-9142

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JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC

Welcome to the Protect Systems newsletter. It is our goal to make this newsletter your exclusive source of information on a variety of topics that have to do with personal safety; products for personal safety and self defense and firearms training . We will also keep you informed about any new or pending gun legislation. We hope this newsletter will add to the safety and well being of your life. It will be updated on a monthly bases or sooner if needed.

JANUARY
THE FIRST RESPONDER

When the threat of an attack or actual attack occurs; you the victim is the first responder at the scene to protect yourself. What you do next may be critical to your survival.

You must be able to respond properly and effectively to protect yourself. The concept of being prepared to respond properly contains three important parts.

In the order of importance they are:

1. Mental preparedness and awareness (if you don’t know the attack is coming the other aspects won’t help)

2. Find an escape route, if none is available, create time to respond by (1) creating distance (2) putting an obstacle between you and the attacker.

3. If you cannot escape use a self-defense response; the proper response and use of tactics is important --------

Select the proper tactics by applying a legal response that works through proper training and education.
Select the proper self -defense equipment that is legal and effective.
Skill with self defense equipment will allow you to use it to its optimum capability.

In each threatening encounter there is a Window of opportunity to respond.

Don’t let your first attempt at protecting yourself become an Experiment that failed.

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FEBRUARY

NON‑LETHAL SELF DEFENSE

A Message From The President/Owner of Protect Systems

(Police Certified Pepper Spray Instructor)

My name is Jerry Wrage, president and owner of PRO‑TECT SYSTEMS. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to PEPPER SPRAY. As a law enforcement and civilian instructor, I have been teaching the use of the pepper spray for many years. During that time, I have found that students generally ask the same questions. The following are the most commonly asked questions regarding pepper sprays. Please read this information carefully and learn more about PEPPER SPRAY and Its USE IN SELF DEFENSE.

Q. Why do I need to carry a non‑lethal self defense device? (Pepper Spray)

A. For the use for non‑deadly self defense.

Confrontations can occur where the use of the handgun (deadly force) is not necessary or justified. Pepper spray is designed to help prevent the unnecessary and unjustified use of deadly force. Not to take the place of a handgun if deadly force is necessary. Pulling the trigger is the final option to save your life. It also carries with it a great deal of responsibility and liability. Don't let unjustified fear pull the trigger of your handgun, fear because you have no other means of self-defense. Will your use of self- defense be justifiable homicide? Therefore, if a person is going to carry a handgun for self-defense that person should have an option to the use of only deadly force. Pepper spray gives you that option.

Q. What is pepper spray?

A. Pepper Spray is made from hot Cayenne Peppers. Its’ active ingredient is Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) an extract of the pepper plant.

Q. What is the most important factor to determine the stopping power of a pepper spray?

A. The Scoville heat unit Rating

The Scoville heat rating is the measurement of the sting or bite of the pepper spray. This could also be thought of as stopping power or impact. The higher the Scoville heat rating, the more stopping power. An effective pepper spray needs to have at least two to three million Scoville heat units.

Q. What is the effect pepper spray will have on the attacker?

A. Pepper spray inflames the mucus membranes of the eyes nose and respiratory system.

This will cause an involuntary and immediate closing of the eyelids creating temporary blindness and when inhaled will cause coughing and gagging. Pepper spray is effective against people under the influence of drugs, alcohol, psychotics and animals including dogs. The effects of the pepper spray can last up to 45 minutes.

Pepper spray has a three-fold affect on the attacker.

The physical disabling affect just mentioned
The psychological affect of fear and disorientation brought on by the sting of the pepper, loss of sight and the inability to run do to restricted breathing.
The temporary loss of sight

Q. Where do I spray the pepper spray to be sure I defeat the attacker?

A. The eyes, nose, and mouth. A direct hit in the face.

Usually use multiple one second bursts to keep from using more spray then is necessary. This method allow the user to have multiple attempts at stopping the attacker.

Q. Is pepper spray safe to use?

A. Yes, Tests were conducted by the FBI's Firearms Training Unit and the U.S. Army's Chemical Research and Development Center. There are no permanent short or long-term health risks or injuries to people or animals.

Q. Is pepper spray legal in Michigan?

A. Yes, Pepper spray is legal in the Michigan (See section 750.224d of the Michigan Concealed Weapons and Firearms Law Manual titled "Self Defense Spray Device")

1. In Michigan, it is legal to have up to a 2 percent pepper spray.

2. There is no limit on the size of the container or Scoville heat rating.

Q. When can I use pepper spray to protect myself? What does the law say about this?

A. Section 750.224d part (5) (b) reads: "The state law approves the reasonable use of a self defense spray device by a person in the protection of person or property under circumstances which would justify the use of physical force."

Q. What is the history of pepper spray?

A. Pepper has been around for 20 years but not until 1992 when the FBI finished a three year study on it did it become the dominant non‑lethal use of force device in law enforcement. Now most law enforcement agencies use pepper spray to control violent and aggressive people. The civilian population is now becoming more aware of how affective pepper spray really is. Now it is becoming the non‑lethal self defense method of choice for most people.

Q. Does wind affect pepper spray?

A. It can. That's why you must know the type of spray dispenser you have and what affects the wind may have on its application. As with all pepper sprays’ do not spray directly into a strong wind. Proper training is another important factor.

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MARCH

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APRIL

Going Wireless at Home

1. Choose a location to install your router. Pick a location that makes for easy access to the router during set-up; you can find a permanent spot later. Being near an electrical outlet will help with the next step...

2. Plug in the router's electrical power source, and turn on the router.

3. Connect your Internet modem to the router. The cable plugs into the router jack called "WAN" or "uplink" or "Internet." After connecting the cable, turn the modem off for a few seconds and then back on to ensure the router recognizes it.

4. Choose one computer to connect to the router. This can be done on a computer with a built-in wireless network card, but using a cable connection during set up will help ensure maximum reliability of the equipment. You can always switch to truly wireless after the set up proves successful.

5. Open the computer Web browser and enter the router's address for network administration in the Web address field and hit return to reach the router's home page. The router documentation should provide the exact address for your model. Common router addresses include: http://192.168.1.1 and http://192.168.0.1.

6. Login to the router. The router's home page will ask you for a username and password. Both are provided in the router's documentation. After the installation is completed, change the router password for security.

7. Configure the router to connect to the Internet. This usually requires obtaining information from your Internet Service Provider. For wireless networks, change the network name from the factory default.

8. Here’s where it gets tricky. Verify the network connection between your computer and the router. The internal, LAN-IP address is normally set to a default, private number. Linksys routers, for example, use 192.168.1.1 for their internal IP address. D-Link and Netgear routers typically use 192.168.0.1. Some US Robotics routers use 192.168.123.254, and some SMC routers use 192.168.2.1.

9. The external, WAN-IP address of the router is set when the router connects to the Internet service provider. If not, “ping” for the address by typing "ping -r 1 www.yahoo.com" into the address bar. You should get a message similar to Reply from 66.94.230.43: bytes=32 time=294ms TTL=56
Route: 209.179.21.76 where the IP address after "Route" (209.179.21.76) corresponds to the router WAN address.

10. Verify your computer connects to the Internet by opening your Web browser and visiting a few Internet sites, such as http://compnetworking.about.com. If all is hunky dory, connect other computers to the network. Use the same router number and configuration for each computer connected wirelessly.

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MAY CCW Renewal

Renewal of Public Act 381 (Training taken after July 1^st 2001)

http://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,1607,7-123-1591_3503_4654-10955--,00.html

For an individual licensed after July 1, 2001, and subsequently applying for a renewal:

Pistol safety training course is not required.

Applicant shall present a statement signed by the applicant certifying that he/she has:

Completed at least three (3) hours of review of the pistol safety training course since receiving his/her license and that the review included firing range time in the 6 months immediately preceding the renewal application.

While official training is not mandated it is highly recommended

You should be able to document that,

1. You are up to date regarding all new and pertinent laws

2. You have demonstrated handgun shooting proficiency

Official training helps in two ways,

1. Recognized training in a court of law

2. Consider the fact the using a handgun in defense requires skill and training, it just makes sense to maintain your proficiency

Recurrent Training Program

3 hours

2 hours classroom

Review all applicable State and Federal laws
The practical application of the handgun for self defense
Written test and review

I hour range

Review basic shooting skills
Practice efficient shooting skills (getting the handgun on target and firing multiple accurate shots)

100 rounds of ammunition required

Cost: $ 65.00 ( includes range fee)

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JUNE Interstate Transportation Of Handguns

If you decide to carry or Transport a handgun out of the state of Michigan. These are the laws you should know

1. Reciprocity - The other state recognize the Michigan permit for legal concealed carry.

2. Preemption- If the state has a preemption law that means the state controls the gun laws and local municipalities cannot make their own.

3. Section 926a- The interstate transportation of firearms. This law allows gun owners to transport the handgun through a state that does not have reciprocity with Michigan.

Note: The gun must be in a locked inaccessible container to transport through another state Interstate Controls - Purchasing and transferring of firearms

You must follow the laws of the state you are in when carrying or using a firearm,

The following is a citizen’s guide to legal transportation of personally-owned firearms for hunting, competitive shooting, vacationing, and changing residence between states.

Federal law does not restrict individuals (except convicted felons, persons under indictment for felonies, mental defectives or incompetents, illegal users of controlled drugs, illegal aliens, veterans dishonorably discharged, those who have renounced their U.S. Citizenship, fugitives from, justice, and persons subject to domestic violence restraining orders) from transporting firearms across state lines. Thus there is no federal interstate transportation permit for firearms.

Many states have laws governing the transportation of firearms. Also, many cities and localities have ordinances restricting their transportation. Travelers must be aware of these laws and comply with the legal requirements in each jurisdiction. There is no uniform state transportation procedure for firearms.

FEDERAL LAW ON TRANSPORTATION OF FIREARMS

A provision of federal law serves as a defense to state or local laws which would prohibit the passage of persons with firearms in interstate travel.

Notwithstanding any state or local law, a person shall be entitled to transport a firearm from any place where he may lawfully possess and transport such firearm to any other place where he may lawfully possess and transport such firearms if the firearm is unloaded and in the trunk. In vehicles without a trunk; the unloaded firearm shall be in a locked container other than the glove compartment or console. If necessary stops, e.g., gasoline and rest seem permissible.

CARRYING ON OR ABOUT THE PERSON

It must be stressed that as soon as any firearm handgun, rifle, or shotgun is carried on or about the person, or placed in a vehicle where it is readily accessible, state and local firearms laws dealing with carrying come into play. If you seek to transport firearms in such a manner, it is advisable that you determine what the law is by contacting the Attorney Generals office in each state through which you may travel or by reviewing an (1) The appropriate link on our web site (2) The states web site (3) NRA State Firearms Law Digest. You should determine whether a permit is needed and how to obtain one if available. While many states require a permit for this type of carrying, some will not issue such permits to nonresidents, and others prohibit such carrying altogether. (Check for reciprocity with the state of Michigan).

TRANSPORTATION BY MOTOR VEHICLE

In most states, personally-owned firearms may be transported legally if they are unloaded, cased, and locked in the automobile trunk. As an additional precaution, firearms may be disassembled and separated from the ammunition.

The exceptions to this rule deal mainly with interstate transportation of handguns. The myriad and conflicting legal requirements for firearm transportation through the states make caution the key fear travelers.

If you travel with a trailer or camper that is hauled by an automobile, it is advisable to transport the firearms unloaded, cased and locked in the automobile trunk. If your vehicle is of the type in which driving and living spaces are not separated, the problem becomes one of access, If the firearm, handgun., rifle or shotgun is carried on or about the person, or placed in the camper, where it is readily accessible to the driver or any passenger, state and local laws dealing with concealed carrying of firearms may come into play. It is suggested, therefore, that the firearm be transported unloaded, cased, and placed in a locked rear compartment of the camper or mobile home, inaccessible to the driver or passenger. Once you reach your destination, the state or, in some areas, municipal law will control the ownership, possession, and transportation of your firearms.

NOTE, Generally, when a mobile home is readily mobile, to, when one can simply start its engine or the engine of its towing vehicle and drive away even if it is capable of being used as a home a mobile home is considered a vehicle. If a mobile home is not mobile, i.e., it does not have an engine, or is not attached to a touring vehicle, and is on blocks, permanently connected to utilities, it is considered a house, run a vehicle.

Transporting a firearm on public transportation—a bus, train, subway or aircraft—is regulated both by applicable local, state and federal law, as well as any specific requirements of the transportation company or authority. If you are transporting the firearm within the boundaries of a state and have a state-issued concealed carry permit, you might be able to transport your gun on any mode of public transportation. You should always check with the transportation company regarding the transportation of weapons.

When transporting a firearm across state lines via public transportation, the firearm usually must be unloaded and locked in an approved case, and you must give the carrier written notice that a firearm or ammunition is being transported. This is also the procedure for transporting a firearm aboard any commercial airline. Other restrictions and procedures (such as a special check-in procedure) may also apply.

Sec. 926A. - Interstate transportation of firearms

Notwithstanding any other provision of any law or any rule or regulation of a State or any political subdivision thereof, any person who is not otherwise prohibited by this chapter from transporting, shipping, or receiving a, firearm shall be entitled to transport a firearm for any lawful purpose from any place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm to any other place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm if, during such transportation the firearm is unloaded, and neither the firearm nor any ammunition being transported is readily accessible or is directly accessible from the passenger compartment of such transporting vehicle., Provided, That in the case of a vehicle without a compartment separate from the driver’s compartment the firearm or ammunition shall be contained in a locked container other than the glove compartment or console

Interstate Controls

The GCA makes it unlawful to engage in a firearms business without a license.

Federal firearms licensees are generally prohibited from transferring to persons who

do not reside in the state where the licensee’s premises are

located.

(Section 926a of the Federal Code)

Interstate Transportation of Handguns

Web site links:

Federal Firearms Laws - FAQ ttp://www.atf.gov/firearms/faq/index.htm

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/18/926A.html

Federal Firearms Laws - FAQ http://www.atf.gov/firearms/faq/index.htm

http://www.gunlaw.com/intrsta.htm

http://search.msn.com/results.aspx?srch=105&FORM=AS5&q=Federal+code+926a

Stay safe and have a happy summer,

Jerry Wrage

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JULY Personal Safety Tips

It is summer time! We all want to get out and do things.

Outdoor events

Back yard barbeques

Camping

Hiking

Walking in the park and through the neighborhood Vacations

Here are some tips that I hope will help you think “safety”

Crime Prevention and Personal Safety

The first step in protecting yourself is to realize that YOU could be a victim of an assault. The best prevention is to avoid potentially dangerous situations and practice safe life style habits.

CRIME PREVENTION is a state of mind and awareness of your surroundings and actions, it is not something you use selectively at a certain time or place, day or night, and it’s your TOTAL APPROACH TO YOUR DAILY LIFE.

A MUGGER/ATTACKER will pick a person that looks like an easy target, a person that is unaware and unprepared. (If you look like a victim, act like a victim, talk like a victim you could become a victim).

The following are some recommendations that will help reduce your chance of being a victim of a crime. Choose form among them the ways that you may increase your safety while maintaining your life style.

ON FOOT

If sidewalks are dark and/or there are bushes along the house side, walk near the curb or down the middle of the street.

Be aware of houses with lights on, or open business, in case you have to run for help.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can run in.

Always walk briskly and confidently.

If approached by a stranger for whatever reason do not let him in your personal zone (with in four feet of you) and do not stop to talk.

Be aware of people and cars around you; take note of any unusual activity.

If you walk to the same destination frequently, try to vary your route and times.

Carry a defense spray and/or a hand alarm at all times. Keep it readily available to use.

If you are being followed by a vehicle, turn around and quickly walk in the opposite direction. Go to the nearest safe place, (house, business etc.).

If you suspect someone is following you on foot, turn confidently and check. Look directly at him (let him know you are aware of his presence). Change your direction, (cross the street) if you can do so safely. If the suspect follows you this will help confirm your suspicions. If you cannot change directions or out distance the suspect, DO NOT PANIC, look for a place of safety and sound your alarm device. If you cannot escape be prepared to defend yourself by using the best tactics available at the time.

How do you carry your purse? Could it be grabbed easily? Could you be dragged or choked with it? Do you carry all of your identification, credit cards, money and keys in it?

Think through routes you frequently walk. Where are the safest and least safe places?

Try not to overload yourself with packages, large purses, or books.

Do not walk alone if you are upset, under the influence of alcohol, or taking a strong medication that may make you sleepy or cause you to use bad judgment.

If you are waiting for a friend outside, a bus, or a light to change notice how you stand. You should be balanced; feet apart and hands OUTSIDE of pockets. (Your elbows are easy to grab, but hard to free quickly).Do not lean against streetlights fences or sign. BE ALERT!!!

AT HOME

Make sure all exterior doors have good dead bolt locks and a 190 degree peep hole if it is a solid door.

Be sure all windows have locks. For sliding doors or windows use an appropriate locking device.

Use your locks. Make sure you lock your doors even when you’re leaving for a few minutes

Lock them when you are home, especially when you are alone.

Be careful about who you let into your home. INSIST that strangers identify themselves BEFORE opening your door. BE SURE A LOCKED DOOR IS BETWEEN YOU AND THE STRANGER.

If a service man comes to your door, ask the individual to produce an I.D. If you have any doubts, ask the person to wait outside while you call his supervisor or company. (get the phone number from information, the number he may give you could be a set up).

NEVER tell a stranger or someone you do not know well that you live alone or are home alone.

If you suspect someone has entered or is in your home when you return, leave quietly and call police immediately from a neighbor’s phone. NEVER try to check it out yourself.

Plan escape routes from various places in your home and what your action would be if someone entered your home and you could not escape from that room. EXA: The basement.

If your bedroom is your “safe room’’ it should contain the following:

1. A dead bolt locks on the door

2. A telephone (preferably a cell phone)

3. An escape ladder or means of escape (if on the second floor) in case of fire or other emergency exit is needed.

4. Flashlight

5. A self defense device as appropriate

Put emergency phone numbers on telephones. Be sure young children know how to use 911 and can call a relative or friend. When old enough children should know there last name and address.

All homes should have at least a simple alarm or entry warning system. These you can purchase and install yourself for under two hundred dollars.

If you live by yourself or with other women, do not put your full name on your mailbox or in the phone book; use first initials instead (i.e. S. Smith instead of Sue Smith).

Know your neighbors and which ones you can trust in an emergency.

When returning home at night, have your keys ready before you get to your door. If someone is watching you, do not let them know where you live.

IN YOUR CAR

ALWAYS check to make sure car doors are locked when LEAVING your car.

Check the doors and the back seat BEFORE entering your car. (Did someone enter, attempt to enter, or disable your car)?

Park in well light areas Park as close as possible to your destination and walk to your car with others.

When walking to your car have your keys ready in your hand to open the car door. Have a defense spray, whistle or shriek alarm attached to your keys or immediately available. Check area under and around your car.

If you must leave your car with a parking attendant, leave ONLY your ignition key.

If you have car trouble, raise your hood or use emergency sign, STAY IN YOUR CAR and wait; be sure all doors are locked and windows are up. If a motorist stops to offer help, roll down your window an inch and ask them to call the police.

If you want to help a disabled motorist; DO NOT STOP AND GET OUT. Instead, note location and type of car; drive to a nearby phone and call the police.

If you suspect your car is being followed, drive to a busy well lighted area and call police or go to a police station. DO NOT drive to your home.

If your car is “BUMPED” by another car go to the first well lighted public place to call police. Call police immediately and wait in the car or safe place. You do not have to talk to other party or exchange drivers license or insurance information.

Have the following in your car:

1. First Aid kit

2. Flares

3. Spare tire that is inflated and a jack that works and you know how to use it.

4. Flashlight

5. Maps if you are traveling in an unfamiliar area

6. Car phone

7. Self defense device as appropriate

8. Correct change for a phone call.

9. Spare tire sealer.

10. Appropriate winter gear; Blankets, Heavy jacket, gloves and head gear.

11. Gas enough for traffic delays, being lost in a strange area or detours.

HOTEL/MOTEL SAFETY

Reservation Checklist

Is the front desk operation 24hrs a day 7 days a week?

Is front desk person always available?

Does hotel have professional dedicated security?

Is interior and parking lot patrolled especially at night?

Do not commit to or accept a room in a remote section of the hotel.

Can you safely store valuables at hotel?

.Arrival:

Park in a well light high traffic area as close to room as possible.

Do not leave valuables in car.

Set your car alarm.

Does the hotel have a secure room key system? Such as a card system?

Do not accept room keys with the room number on them.

Be sure your telephone turned on. Can you call the front desk and outside?

Are you able to lock windows and doors (use a door wedge to secure the door?)

Do not tell strangers you are alone in your room.

If you are a woman traveling alone, take some men’s clothing with you.

Keys are given only to an identified registered guest of room. You can check the system by asking for another key for your room.

The front desk should not give out information about who is in a room.

Know the fire escape procedures. Will you be able to find your way out in in a smoke filled and possible dark building?

Room:

Keep on night stand:

Flash light

Self defense device as appropriate

Print emergency numbers large enough so as to find and see them in dim light and in a hurry

Do you know how telephone operates, can you call 911 or front desk in an emergency?

Do not open your room door unless you are expecting company and you know who is there. If it is an unexpected employee or an employee requesting entrance for a suspicious reason, call front desk to verify.

Always ask for a security person to escort you to your room or car if you are concerned for your safety.

Stairways:

Do not use stairway alone

Doors may close and lock behind you, check first.

Elevators:

If you are in an elevator with a suspicious person, if assaulted or harassed

Push all buttons and get of at next floor

Push the alarm button

Use appropriate self defense methods

If you decide to transport or carry a handgun out of the state of Michigan the laws that you need to be aware of are:

1. Reciprocity - The other state recognize the Michigan permit for legal concealed carry.

2. Preemption- If the state has a preemption law that means the state controls the gun laws and local municipalities cannot make their own.

3. Section 926a- The interstate transportation of firearms. This law allows gun owners to transport the handgun through a state that does not have reciprocity with Michigan.

Note: The gun must be in a locked inaccessible container to transport through another state Interstate Controls - Purchasing and transferring of firearms

You must follow the laws of the state you are in when carrying or using a firearm,

The following is a citizen’s guide to legal transportation of personally-owned firearms for hunting, competitive shooting, vacationing, and changing residence between states.

FEDERAL LAW ON TRANSPORTATION OF FIREARMS

A provision of federal law serves as a defense to state or local laws which would prohibit the passage of persons with firearms in interstate travel.

CARRYING ON OR ABOUT THE PERSON

TRANSPORTATION BY MOTOR VEHICLE

Sec. 926A. - Interstate transportation of firearms

Interstate Controls

The GCA makes it unlawful to engage in a firearms business without a license.

Federal firearms licensees are generally prohibited from transferring to persons who

do not reside in the state where the licensee’s premises are located.

No licensees are generally prohibited from acquiring firearms outside their state of residence or transferring firearms to no licensees who reside out-of state.

Reference Resources:

Web site: http://www.handgun-shotguntraining.com

(Click on concealed weapons training and firearms law)

Contact Handgun Training Specialists 248-844-8274

Federal Firearms Laws - FAQ ttp://www.atf.gov/firearms/faq/index.htm

Stay safe and have a happy summer,

Jerry Wrage

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AUGUST Important Web Site links

Click on appropriate link for direct access to web site

1. Michigan now has reciprocity with Ohio

http://www.ag.state.oh.us/web_applications/concealcarry/reciprocity.asp