what to carry for self defense

[notlost]

Bear Spray on the bars (revelate feedbag?)

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[Dickie]

This has always worked for me:

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[Anonymous]

I have pepper spray though it is intended for loose dogs, not people. (and, a little bit, for the BF’s peace of mind; he is not entirely sure I should ride some of the places I ride alone). I also have one of the alarm thingies like Klizotte’s. Agree it is quite loud. I think it would be a better bet for dissuading a human attacker than the pepper spray, and (probably at least as likely) also is something that could be useful to draw attention if I were to have a serious crash or injury and need someone to find and rescue me; esp lightly traveled areas and in the dark…

[AFHokie]

@83(b) 119331 wrote:

After a couple of interactions where I would really have liked to have it, I started carrying a frame-mounted pepper spay. It’s easily accessible on the fly from the top tube.

If you decide to carry something for protection you really should keep it on your person; the last thing I’d do is stop or dismount. Even at a ‘barely able to remain upright’ speed, you’re still moving faster than a fast pace walking speed and stand a much better chance of escaping. If I’m off the bike its probably due to crashing so it stands to reason, I’m likely no longer within reach of it or anything attached to it.

[Oldtowner]

@notlost 119344 wrote:

Also good to keep in mind that the section of the Mt Vernon Trail between the 14th street bridge and 66 is part of DC.

Isn’t the MVT federal property? I have only seen Park Police on that stretch (on motorcycles).

[PotomacCyclist]

All of Columbia Island is in DC, even though it’s closer to the Virginia shore. But it’s also part of the GW Memorial Parkway and administered by the National Park Service. (NPS uses the name “GW Memorial Parkway” to cover the MVT, the Clara Barton Parkway in Maryland, Columbia Island and other areas along the actual parkway.)

[notlost]

@Oldtowner 119442 wrote:

Isn’t the MVT federal property? I have only seen Park Police on that stretch (on motorcycles).

It is Park Service land that is mostly in VA.

[Jason]

Sorry to NECRO POST, but this came up on another forum.

I have some experience and training in Self defense, MA, and firearms.

I carry a clip on OC spray in my jersey pocket. Some like to clip them to the bike, but then if you are thrown, tossed, or otherwise separated from your bike, you have nothing. I prefer the stream type with a flip cap based on experience. Something like this is near ideal: http://www.amazon.com/PepperGard%C2%AE-Flip-Top-Safety-Pepper-Spray/dp/B00YSZRVH8/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1454514981&sr=8-6&keywords=flip+cap+pepper+spray

If you are truly concerned, a clip in spyderco knife like a delica is also great, but this requires additional training in my opinion. Training in deployment is important, but also legal ramifications, so this option isnt ideal for everyone.

[Author]

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