As the school year rapidly approaches, ensuring personal safety on campus becomes a top priority for students and parents alike. Back-to-school season is a perfect time to have essential safety conversations and equip oneself with practical and discreet ways to stay safe. Whether you're a student heading back-to-school or a parent sending a loved one away for the first time, personal protection should be at the forefront of your preparations. However, it's crucial to remember that safety extends beyond carrying tools; understanding concealed carry state and local laws and being a responsible firearm owner is of utmost importance.

On-Campus Safety Tips:

Before diving into selecting tools for personal protection, let's review some essential on-campus safety tips that can help you navigate through the school year securely:

Situational Awareness: Practicing situational awareness is one of the most critical aspects of personal protection. Being aware of your surroundings at all times enables you to identify potential threats and respond appropriately in any situation.

Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with all the resources your campus offers, including emergency contacts, campus security, designated transportation options and the student health center. Understanding your school's emergency procedures and protocols can make a significant difference in handling crises.

Strength in Numbers: There's truth in the saying "safety in numbers." Whenever possible, travel in groups to class, dining halls and social settings. Create a group with your friends or classmates to move around campus together!

Personal Safety Matters: Prioritize your personal safety by keeping your belongings in a secure space, being cautious on social media and always trusting your instincts. Your gut feelings can often serve as valuable cues for potential danger.

Remember to understand all state and local laws in order to protect yourself!

Selecting the Right Concealed Carry Purse:

Select your style.

For those considering concealed carry options, choosing the right handbag is a crucial decision. Gun Tote'n Mamas offers a diverse range of styles catering to all types of women. When selecting a concealed carry bag, several factors should be considered:

Choose the Right Size: Consider the type of firearm you carry daily and ensure the bag is designed to fit your holster and gun comfortably and securely.

Style and Carrying: Each woman carries a purse differently, so think about how you prefer to wear a cross-body, sling, clutch or any other style and how you'd draw your firearm from each. Comfort and ease of access are essential factors.

Training: Proper training is paramount when carrying a concealed firearm. Practice drawing from your purse regularly, and visit the shooting range to refine your skills. Training not only enhances your safety but also ensures responsible firearm ownership.

Seek Professional Assistance: If you need help finding the perfect concealed carry bag for yourself or your student, reach out to Gun Tote'n Mamas' Personal Shopper at 847.446.0700 Ext. 107. They can guide you through the selection process to ensure you find the ideal bag to meet your safety needs!

Consider Your Options:

In addition to a concealed carry purse, there are various tools for self-defense worth considering. Pepper spray, personal alarms and flashlights are all effective means of protection that can easily fit into your GTM bag. However, the effectiveness of each tool relies on proper training and understanding of their use.

As you gear up for the upcoming school year, don't underestimate the significance of personal protection. By staying informed, aware and well-equipped with the right tools, you can create a secure environment for yourself and those around you. Remember, personal safety is a shared responsibility, and investing in training and responsible firearm ownership is essential. Embrace the new school year with confidence, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to stay safe and secure.

Stay safe, have fun and don’t underestimate yourself!