We’re now nearly at the end of 2016 and there’s news about gun violence seemingly every day. If you carry concealed now, chances are you will continue to as time goes on. If you’re not already carrying concealed and are thinking about it for the coming year, here are some stats to think about.
Carrying concealed is a big responsibility. Responsible gun owners make an important commitment to safety and training. Consider these compelling reasons to carry concealed. According to FBI crime statistics released in 2015, there were an estimated 1, 165, 383 violent crimes reported by law enforcement in 2014. More than 11 million people were arrested for violent crime during 2014. Although the numbers say violent crime decreased, the decrease was a slight .2 percent.
1. Your safety is at risk.
Threats arise when you least expect them. If you have a gun on you (and you’re trained to use it effectively), you will be prepared to defend yourself if you’re threatened by an attacker. this post, “What to Do if You’re Caught in an Armed Robbery,” provides some suggestions for how to react if you’re ever caught in the middle of an armed robbery while in a store.
2. Protect your family.
One of the biggest motivators for people who decide to carry concealed is the desire to protect their family members. The world is a scary place and we all want our loved ones to stay safe. Carrying concealed gives you an added measure of security knowing that you have a weapon available in case you need to protect your loved ones from harm. If you have children, read this post called “Securing Firearms From Children.”
3. Take your power back.
People who carry concealed often report feeling empowered because they know they will be prepared to defend themselves from an attacker if necessary. Many people also report that they are much more aware of their surroundings when they have a CCW on their person. They are more likely to avoid putting themselves in a potentially dangerous situation. However, if they do find themselves in danger, they will be prepared to fight back. Here’s a post we call “Refuse to Be a Victim,” about 4 ways to “Be Bold, Step Up and Stay Safe.”
4. Be secure in your home.
We all want our homes to be a safe place where we can let our guard down and relax. However, criminals see it differently. Criminals know that people’s homes are full of valuable items that can be sold for cash. Protect your home and your family from dangerous criminals by keeping your CCW on you even when you’re at home. You never know when a criminal will choose your home as a target. The best thing you can do is make them regret their decision. “You Can Protect Yourself From a Home Invasion” gives specific steps you can take to make your home more safe.
5. It’s your constitutional right.
The Second Amendment to the Bill of Rights guarantees your right to bear arms, and this concept has been upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. As a citizen of the United States, you have the constitutional right to carry a firearm.
Do you have your concealed carry permit? You can take the training to get one right now if you live in Iowa or Virginia through this link to American Concealed’s certification class.
