How do you defend yourself? What self-defense products should you have on your person? Unfortunately, it's a valid question in today's society.

Self-defense products are plentiful on the market. There are varieties of items, which can serve you well in a number of situations. The key factor in choosing a personal safety tool is to understand what each can do.

It's also wise to consider what you can handle using, and what you can legally carry. A bazooka or AK47 would do wonders for your protection. Now, it seems you have to keep up with what the criminals are using. However, practicality and lawfulness must rule any decision you make.

Consequently, what are the popular self-defense products on the market today? The following list is an overview:

* Pepper Sprays: Also called OC Sprays. OC stands for oleoresin capsicum, the compound found in these sprays. Pepper spray is a chemical compound that irritates the eyes. It causes tearing and a stinging, painful feeling. It may even cause temporary blindness. They come in canisters and some are small enough to carry in a pocket or purse. The spray can also rest inside a ring on your ring finger. You could have a self-defense product literally 'on hand', ready to use at a moments notice.

* Tasers: The name 'taser' comes from Thomas A. Swift's Electric Rifle. Inventor Jack Cover came up with the product in 1969. He named it after the fictional character Tom Swift.

This is a type of electroshock weapon. It can subdue a person from a distance. Its intent is temporary incapacitation of a person. The electric shock it administers disrupts muscle function. This results in swift subduing of the threatening person.

Metal wires attached to the device deliver small electrodes. These electrodes interfere with superficial muscle function. Law-enforcement agencies use them in certain self-defense situations not requiring a firearm.

* Stun Guns: What they do is in their name; they stun a person into submission. They emit a high voltage but low amperage shock. The shock affects the neuromuscular system. The effect on a person is loss of balance and loss of superficial muscle control. They become confused and experience disorientation. Again, their threat to you diminishes, temporarily. In self-defense situations, you subdue so you can scram.

* Personal alarms: These are small items designed as portable for pockets, bags, or purses. They emit a loud, shrill, even piercing sound. The intent of these is to elicit help from anyone around you and to scare off the attacker. They can be key chain items or wristband type items.

* Safety Lights: These products are suitable to carry when walking alone, especially in unfamiliar territory. As a self-defense item, they can light your way so you can get to your car quickly. They can also ward off a threatening person who will not want his activities brought to light.

Many reputable companies sell quality self-defense products. They sell to security and law-enforcement agencies. They also sell to the public at large. Your responsibility is to investigate the legal considerations concerning a self-defense product you wish to purchase. Check with your seller and local, state, and federal agencies that dictate requirements in this area.

Today, police and other security agencies find themselves stretched to the limit in terms of work force and budgets. They cannot be in all places at all times. It is also incumbent upon us to provide for our own safety. Self-defense is now an everyday concern, especially for people living in certain crime infested areas.

The wise selection of security items can only benefit your loved ones and you. Investigate suitable, legal self-defense products available to you today. Research the best products for your lifestyle.

Sometimes the best defense is you. It is you, acting at the right moment, with the right self-defense product.