A stun gun is designed to draw electric charge from a battery and deliver it to the attacker through two metal prongs usually located towards the top. This current interferes with the nervous system of the attacker by preventing the signals between brain and muscles from passing through. This results in a temporary paralysis, or inability to move properly.

Listed below are some important safety precautions to keep in mind:

Do not rush when handling the gun, and hold it steadily before you exit the vehicle or place of shelter.

Before you exit the vehicle, turn the gun on, but do not touch the trigger. Wait till you are in the open, and ready to use the stun gun before you touch the trigger.

Make sure that the prongs do not touch you at any time, as even a residual charge can knock a person out.

Use the stun gun on the shoulder and/or hip of the attacker as this immediately disables their limbs.

Hold the trigger down and keep the stun gun in contact with the attacker until he/she is down. Do not pull away the stun gun after an initial shock.

Test the stun gun frequently to make sure that it is in good working order.

Keep extra batteries in your car or somewhere accessible should you even need to use them. Make sure that you keep the batteries charged at all times.

Ask a local law enforcement agency about the legality of carrying a stun gun in your city or state before you acquire it.

After each use, turn the gun off, and touch the prongs to something metallic. This ensures that all residual charge on the prongs is released.

Avoid leaving the stun gun under your car seat, as a stray charge in suitable conditions can start a fire in the gas tank.