According to SafeSecure360, 

Our holiday shopping season is here, bringing joy and excitement as we shop our family and friends. Here are some easy safety tips to follow to enhance your personal safety:

 

1. There is safety in numbers. Bringing a friend or family member along enhances your security and situational awareness during this hectic time. Criminals are less likely to target more than one shopper.


2. Be aware. Take an extra moment and look around you – if a situation or person appears uncomfortable – wait to exit or to return to your vehicle.


3. More plastic – less cash. When possible, limit the amount of cash that you carry as you shop. Criminals are looking for cash.


4. Take a photo of your credit cards. Place your cards out and take a photo or video of the front and back. Account numbers, card issuers, and contact numbers need to be readily available if they are lost or stolen. Consider an online service to keep this data for you.


5. Guard your purse. Criminals target ladies’ purses first – knowing they contain your wallet, vehicle keys, cell phone and maybe even a licensed concealed handgun. Take extra precautions to safeguard the contents and always be aware of potential risks.


6. Escort to your car. When leaving a business and returning to your car especially at night – look around you. If you get that sixth-sense that something or someone is a potential threat- alert the store or mall security – request an escort to your vehicle. Keep your keys in your hand and try not using your cell phone until you are safely in your vehicle. Use your vehicle panic button to alert others if you are threatened.


7. See Something – Do Something. If you encounter a crisis situation in a public setting always remember to RUN-HIDE-FIGHT. Removing yourself from the threat is the smartest thing you can do. If you cannot run – hide from the threat in a safe place until help arrives. And as a last resort FIGHT to protect yourself using any method necessary to reduce your risk of injury.

Properly caring for your Belly Band

6th Mar 2024

Holster Hygiene: A Deep Dive into Cleaning and Maintaining Your Belly Band Holster

Belly band holsters have gained popularity among firearm carriers due to their comfort, versatility, and ability to be worn with a wide range of clothing. However, being predominantly worn against the skin, they are susceptible to dirt, sweat, and grime. Maintaining proper hygiene of your belly band holster is crucial to ensuring its longevity and the efficient deployment of your firearm.


Understanding the Material


Belly Band holsters are typically made from materials such as neoprene or elasticized fabric. Neoprene is lauded for its comfort, flexibility, and durability. However, it is also prone to absorbing sweat, which can lead to odor and bacteria build-up if not properly maintained. Elasticized fabric, while flexible, can lose its elasticity over time. Understanding these characteristics is crucial in effectively cleaning and maintaining your holster.

Cleaning Your Belly Band Holster: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Safety First

Before cleaning, remove your firearm and ensure that it is unloaded. Store it in a safe place during the cleaning process.

Step 2: Preliminary Dusting

Start by using a dry cloth or a soft brush to dust off any loose dirt or debris from your holster. This helps in getting rid of the superficial dirt that might have settled on it.

Step 3: Washing the Holster

As belly band holsters are generally made from neoprene or elasticized fabric, they can be cleaned with mild soap and water.

  • Create a mix of warm water and mild detergent.
  • Immerse a cloth in the solution and wring it out so it's damp but not dripping.
  • Gently scrub the holster with the cloth. Pay attention to areas that are typically in contact with the skin, as they are more likely to harbor sweat and bacteria.
  • Use a toothbrush for scrubbing crevices or stitched areas that may be difficult to clean with a cloth.

Step 4: Rinsing

After washing, rinse the holster with a clean cloth dampened in plain water. Make sure to remove all soap residues as they can cause irritation when the holster is worn against the skin.

Step 5: Drying


Let your holster air dry in a cool and well-ventilated place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or using a heat source for drying, as these can cause the material to lose its elasticity or become brittle.