Greetings,

As Bob Dylan wrote; “The times they are a changing.”

So with that being said, have you simplified your travel checklist? You need to as of June 1st 2009!

On June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens returning home from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda, by land or sea, will be required to present one of the travel documents listed below.

Many of these documents are already available, and obtaining one now will ensure that you are ready on June 1, 2009, when they will be required.

U.S. Passport – This is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies a person’s identity and nationality. It is accepted for travel by air, land and sea.

U.S. Passport Card – This is a new, limited-use travel document that fits in your wallet and costs less than a U.S. Passport. It is only valid for travel by land and sea.

Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) – Several states and Canadian provinces are issuing this driver’s license or identification document that denotes identity and citizenship. It is specifically designed for cross-border travel into the U.S. by land or sea.

Trusted Traveler Program Cards – NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST enrollment cards can speed your entry into the U.S. and are issued only to pre-approved, low-risk travelers. The cards are valid for use at land or sea; the NEXUS card can be used in airports with a NEXUS kiosk.

Special Groups – Information for Children, Groups of Children, Native Americans, “Closed Loop” Cruises, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, U.S. Military, Merchant Mariners, Ferries and Small Boats, and Boaters.

Knowing what documents are required and having them ready when you return home will help streamline the entry process and ensure your return to the U.S. is as smooth as possible.

For more information on having safe travels,  Please check out:

“Discover How To Have A Safe Trip Abroad”

“This book is full of great advice for you to have a safe and secure travel. Easy to read and understand! Read it before your travel and bring it with you on your travel, too. It will prepare you for and give you answers to any situation that could occur. So you can just relax and enjoy!”
Claus D. Jensen

Sincerely,

Thomas “Trapper” Sherwood
http://www.personalsafetyebook.com

Tags: Enhanced Driver's License, personal safety, personals safety, Travel, Trusted Traveler Program Cards, US Passport, US Passport Card

Greetings!

Memorial Day has come & gone, which can only mean one thing, that summer is here! With summer here, so comes a lot of traveling. Please keep these tips in mind when traveling to ensure your personal safety and a happy and safe vacation!

When traveling by car never leave anything of value in plain sight in your vehicle. Carry a blanket and cover them up or better yet put valuables in the trunk if you have one.

Before taking your trip take some time and write down a list of credit cards and numbers including company contact numbers, association or membership cards, ID’s, and any other important cards on a sheet of paper. This works for both men and women. Keep the list in a safe spot. If you loose your purse or wallet you make immediate notifications about lost or stolen cards.

Get a housewatch on your house or leave contact information with a trusted neighbor or family member. Hold mail and newspaper delivery to your house so that it doesn’t pile up. This includes someone to take advertisements that are left on your door.

Leave lights on a timer that come on around dark and leave a radio or TV on so that it appears that someone is home.

If you are staying in a motel or hotel always use the secure door locks and the secondary locks. Keep your room number out of conversations in public areas and be aware of your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable pay attention to your feels and get to a safe place. If you are confronted by a purse-snatcher throw your purse away from you and run the other way, making as much noise as possible. Make eye contact with others so that you won’t appear to be an easy victim.

Park your vehicle in a lighted area of the parking lot as close you your room as possible so that you can check on it at different times.

Enjoy your well deserved time off!

Sincerely,

Thomas “Trapper” Sherwood
http://www.sherwoodlocksmithing.com

** RECOMMENDED READING**
Personal Safety and Security Secrets Revealed!
Discover how to keep you, your family, and your home secure!
Visit http://www.personalsafetyebook.com to invest in your copy.

Tags: Add new tag, personal safety, Travel

Greetings,

This is a repost of a press release I received recently.

SecurityTechnicalInstitute.com (STI) has been approved for online training for locksmiths in Tennessee to meet continuing education and general education requirements administered by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.

STI provides locksmiths an option for distance learning as they obtain and maintain occupational education requirements and continuing educational credits required by Tennessee’s locksmith regulations.

STI is equipped to provide a home-based training program combined with robust Internet technology to provide the locksmith accelerated training opportunities from the comfort of their home.

SecurityTechnicalInstitute.com is the original and leading provider of “blended learning” and online proficiency testing at a fraction of the cost of other programs. “We can provide repeatable content and online testing with instant results to clients worldwide,” Tom Lynch, director of operations, said.
STI’s program eliminates the need for locksmiths to travel long distances for training. “We believe the locksmith deserves an alternative that meets their needs,” Lynch said.

STI has approval from the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance for more than 40 course topics with 12 specific “core knowledge” topics designed to satisfy state locksmith requirements.

Locksmiths may challenge a course test under supervision and be awarded full credit if a passing score is achieved.  STI offers regional hands-on peer certification and works with local associations to support their educational goals.

Security Technical Institute.com is committed to helping the locksmiths succeed while providing a quality education and skills to survive.
“We offer an opportunity at an education that will last a lifetime, we don’t sell credit hours,” Lynch said.  “Locksmiths needed a solution, and STI provides it.”

Sincerely,

Thomas “Trapper” Sherwood
615 355-5886
www.sherwoodlocksmithing.com
TNLP # 0067

PS…Remember, if a locksmith is doing work in the state of Tennessee, he/she must be licensed. Ask to see a locksmith’s license before he/she performs any work for you.

Tags: education, locksmith, personal safety, personal security

Greetings,

Today’s great post comes from my friend Jessica, and I want to thank her for allowing me to use it to help keep others safe. Thanks Jess!

Tell your spouse, your children, your neighbors, your parents, your Doctor’s Office, the checkout girl at the market, everyone you run across. Please feel free to pass this blog post to them. However you can do it, please do. Keep them informed with this very simple tip.

Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get into your house, just press the panic button for your car, providing your car does have an alarm system and you do have the alarm remote.

The alarm will be set off and the horn will continue to sound either until you turn it off or the car battery dies.

This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator.  Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: it’s a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Test it.  It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the remote unit.  It works if you park in your driveway or garage.

If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break into your house, odds are that the burglar/rapist won’t stick around….after a few seconds all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there, and sure enough the criminal won’t want that!

And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there.

This is something that should really be shared with everyone.  Maybe it could save a life or prevent a sexual assault.

My Mom has suggested to my Dad that he carry his car keys with him in case he falls outside and she doesn’t hear him. He can activate the car alarm and then she’ll know there’s a problem.

P.S…it would also be useful for any emergency, such as a heart attack, where you can’t reach a phone.

Tags: automobiles, keys, personal safety, personal security

What is pepper spray and/or defensive spray?

The defensive sprays that Personal Safety eBook recommends are humane and effective. These self
defensive sprays contain OC Pepper, Tear Gas, Ultraviolet Dye, or any combination of the three.
They are an effective means of non-lethal self defense for people concerned with safety and
security. Used by police departments, security agencies, and individuals concerned with security
and self defense. Recommended by the American Security Institute.

2. What are the effects of pepper spray and/or defensive spray?
To achieve the desired effects, a defensive spray must be aimed towards the face of the aggressor.
The general effects of most defensive sprays are disorientation, eyes slamming shut, restricted
breathing, uncontrollable coughing, blindness, and intense burning sensation. Effects generally last
20 to 30 minutes. As the different formulations work differently depending upon what chemical
compounds are used, please see “How do some of the different formulations work?” as well to see
what effects your specific formulation will induce.

3. Can I use my pepper spray after the expiration date?
Like any pressurized aerosol device, over time the unit may not
spray as far as expected, if at all. Mace Brand defensive sprays
(and some other brands as well) have an easy to find expiration
date on the unit. We recommend replacing your spray after the
expiration date to ensure that the spray is ready to save your life
should you ever need it. If you have a spray that does not have
an expiration date, please be sure to see “What if my pepper
spray doesn’t have an expiration date?” as well.

4. What if my pepper spray doesn’t have an expiration date?
If you are using a spray that does not have an expiration date, the manufacturer has probably
included directions to test the unit every three months to ensure that it is ready if you should ever
need it. As these sprays do have a limited capacity that may be exhausted through repeated testing,
we highly recommend that in addition to testing that you replace your spray once a year. This is the
surest way to have the protection you need when you need it.

5. At what temperature should I store my pepper spray?
Do not leave your defensive spray in any area that may exceed 125 degrees F or drop below -15
degrees F. Excessive heat or cold may cause the can to leak or burst.

6. Can I bring pepper spray on an airplane?
The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) allows one defensive spray per traveler in your checked
luggage only. Sprays are not allowed in carry-on luggage or at any time in the passenger area.

If you are looking for self-defense products such as stun guns, pepper sprays, Air Tasers, Mace, hidden cameras and a lot more, check out one of our favorite sites, Safety Technology.

Be safe,

Trapper

Tags: defensive sprays, mace, pepper spray, personal safety, personal security, self-defense, self-defense products

When do you make the decision to use pepper spray?

Don’t wait until you are being assaulted to think about whether or not you are going to use your defensive spray. After you receive your defensive spray familiarize yourself with this information and the specific directions that come with your product.

Arrange a quiet time where you think about some of the possible assault scenarios whereby
you’d be a victim. You should also make a couple of practice ‘taps’ of you defensive spray (in an open
area with no one around) to ensure that you know how it works.

This is the time to make the conscious decision to spray an attacker and move to a safer location, when
and if you are attacked.

This may seem silly, but it is vitally important to be prepared for bad experiences. Too many times,
I’ve heard of victims who ‘couldn’t think’ or were ‘to confused’ during an assault to make a decision.
Comments like, “I didn’t know if I should use it” or “It happened so fast I didn’t know what to do”
imply that the victims were in a problem solving mode when they should have been in an action mode.

Make the decision now to act.

Where does one purchase Pepper Spray?

I have know this company for years, solid, reliable and they get my
recommendation. Click Here

PS…Pepper Spray Info provided by Mace Brand Defensive Sprays

Tags: pepper spray, personal safety, Personal Safety Products, personal security, self-defense

What’s the best way to pick a reputable locksmith? Consider researching locksmiths before you need one, the same way you would a plumber, electrician, or other professional. That works well if you’re looking to have some security work done at your home, like installing deadbolts on the exterior doors of your house, or a safe in your bedroom.

But if you’re dealing with an emergency, like being locked out of your car, you really don’t have much time for thorough research.

Regardless of whether you are locked out of your car or home, you need new locks installed, or you require other security work, the FTC offers these tips to help you hire a legitimate, local locksmith.

In emergency situations:

• If you’re locked out of your car and have a roadside assistance service, call them first. These services sometimes are included with the purchase of a car, or as an add-on through your insurance company. You also can buy this service separately. Roadside assistance plans often have a list of pre-approved companies to perform services like unlocking cars, jump-starting batteries, changing flat tires, delivering gasoline, and towing.
• Call family or friends for recommendations.
• If you find a locksmith in the phone book, on the Internet, or through directory assistance, and a business address is given, confirm that the address belongs to that locksmith. Some disreputable companies list street addresses to give the impression that they’re local. But the addresses may belong to other businesses or vacant lots, if they exist at all. You can verify addresses through websites that allow you to match phone numbers with street addresses. Some legitimate locksmith companies may not include a street address in their listing either because they operate a “mobile” business or they operate their business out of their home and may be reluctant to list that address. If you call a locksmith who doesn’t list an address, ask why. If the answer is that it’s a “mobile” business, you will understand they have no storefront.
• Write down the names of several businesses, their phone numbers, and addresses for future reference, in case you don’t want to go with the first locksmith you call.
• If a company answers the phone with a generic phrase like “locksmith services,” rather than a company-specific name, be wary. Ask for the legal name of the business. If the person refuses, call another locksmith.
• Get an estimate for all work and replacement parts from the locksmith before work begins. In cases of “lock-outs” (being locked out of your car or home), most legitimate locksmiths will give you an estimate on the phone for the total cost of the work.
  • Ask about additional fees before you agree to have the locksmith perform the work. Companies may charge extra for responding to a call in the middle of the night. Ask if there is a charge for mileage, or a minimum fee for a service call.
  • If the price the locksmith provides when he arrives doesn’t jibe with the estimate you got on the telephone, do not allow the work to be done.
  • Never sign a blank form authorizing work.
• Find out if the locksmith is insured. If your property is damaged during a repair, or if faulty work leads to loss or damage, it’s important for the locksmith to have insurance to cover your losses.
• When the locksmith arrives, ask for identification, including a business card and, where applicable, a locksmith license. Nine states require locksmiths to be licensed: Alabama, California, Illinois, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. In addition to a business card, check to see if the invoice includes the company’s name, and whether the locksmith’s vehicle has a name that matches the business card, invoice, and/or bill.
• Expect the locksmith to ask you for identification, as well. A legitimate locksmith should confirm your identity and make sure you’re the property owner before doing any work.
• Some locksmiths will work out of a car for quick or emergency jobs, but most will arrive in a service vehicle that is clearly marked with their company’s name.
• In the case of a lock-out, be cautious if you’re told up front that the lock has to be drilled and replaced. An experienced legitimate locksmith has invested in the tools and education to provide quality service, and can unlock almost any door.
• After the work is completed, get an itemized invoice that covers parts, labor, mileage, and the price of the service call.
  In situations where you have more time, check out locksmiths with your state Attorney General (www.naag.org), local consumer protection agency (www.consumeraction.gov), and the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) to make sure there are no unresolved complaints on file. (You can get the phone numbers for these organizations in your phone book, through directory assistance, or through Web directories.) This is true whether you need a locksmith for a one-time job, or you want to hire someone to work for you on a continuing basis.

  You must be able to trust your locksmith. You don’t want to give access to the locks for your home, car, or place of business to just anyone.

  Any question? Feel free to call me.

  Sincerely,

  Thomas “Trapper” Sherwood
  TN LP # 0067
  615 355-5886
  Sherwood Locksmithing

Tags: deadbolts, lock outs, locksmith, personal safety, personal security, Sherwood Locksmithing

If you’ve ever locked yourself out of your car or home, you know what a hassle it can be. Your first thought is to get someone to help you out of your situation. If a family member or friend can’t deliver a spare set of keys, your next call might be to a local locksmith. But before you make that call, consider this: According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, some locksmiths advertising in your local telephone book may not be local at all. They may not have professional training. What’s more, some of them may use intimidating tactics and overcharge you.

When “Local” Is Really Long-Distance.

Consider this scenario: A company far away from your town chooses a name for its business that is very similar to the name used by a local locksmith. The company advertises in the phone book or on the Web using a local telephone number and local address. When you call the number, you’re actually connected to a call center in another city. What’s more, there’s no locksmith shop at the address listed.

You may be quoted a price on the phone, but when the locksmith arrives, often in an unmarked vehicle, he may want significantly more money. The locksmith also may accept only cash.

Bottom line, know your local locksmith! Ask when you are on the phone with him/her what specific city are they located in and most important, ask if they are a state licensed locksmith, (you will want to see their ID when they arrive) if your state does require a locksmith. Tennessee does.

Next post we will continue to cover tips to hiring a reputable locksmith.

Thomas “”Trapper” Sherwood
Sherwood Locksmithing TN LP #0067

Tags: automobiles, Home and House Security, lock outs, locksmith, personal safety, personal security

Self-Protection Units Available in Selected Stores This Month

Greetings,

In a press release issued Thursday December 18th, 2008 TASER International
announced it has partnered up with Bass Pro Shops; the World’s Greatest outdoor
store to begin carrying TASER personal safety devices in selected stores.

To view the complete press release please click here =>
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/Bass-Pro-Shops-Begin-Carrying/story.aspx?guid={2192AD33-7FA7-4AA7-8E0D-17CB57F1EFB3}

I am especially looking forward to the new state of the art new public safety background check.

As I hear more, and what stores these will become available in and what areas, I will keep you posted.

Trap

PS…to learn more about your personal safety & security, please visit :
Personal Safety & Security Secrets Revealed

Tags: Bass Pro Shops, Home and House Security, personal safety, personal security, Taser