In today’s world, personal safety is a priority for many people. With New Jersey’s “red flag law” allowing authorities to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others, some residents have started considering alternative self-defense methods.

Many everyday household items can be repurposed for protection in emergencies. While using any object as a weapon comes with legal and ethical considerations, some New Jersey residents have shared their creative ways of staying prepared at home.

Here are eight household items that could be used as defensive tools if needed:

Flare Gun

Flare guns are commonly kept in vehicles and boats for emergencies, but they can also serve as a self-defense tool. While they are not traditional weapons, the bright light and heat they produce could disorient an attacker. However, firing a projectile at someone carries serious legal consequences, so it should only be used as an absolute last resort.

Chair Leg with Nails

This makeshift weapon is similar to a medieval mace. A sturdy chair leg with nails partially hammered in can become a dangerous bludgeon. While keeping a broken chair around may seem unusual, it’s a tactic that some creative residents have considered. Just be aware that carrying such an item outside the home may raise legal concerns.

Weighted Wiffleball Bat

A hollow wiffleball bat might seem harmless, but when filled with a heavy material like Liquid Nails adhesive, it becomes significantly more formidable. It’s an inconspicuous item that blends into a household or vehicle yet can serve as an improvised defense tool.

Three-Hole Punch

A common office supply, the three-hole punch, has a surprising secondary use. It’s a solid, heavy object that could be used for striking if necessary. Some people have realized its defensive potential while working in an office setting where more traditional tools are unavailable.

Wasp Spray

Insect sprays, particularly those designed for wasps, can shoot long distances and cause temporary blindness. Some people consider keeping a can near their door or in their car for added security. However, it’s important to note that using wasp spray against a human attacker may not be legally justified.

WD-40

This household staple can work similarly to pepper spray when aimed at an attacker’s eyes. Its ability to spray in a concentrated stream from a distance makes it an unexpected but effective defensive tool.

Aqua Net Hairspray

Anyone who has accidentally sprayed hairspray into their eyes knows how painful it can be. In an emergency, a can of Aqua Net or another strong hairspray could temporarily disable an intruder, allowing time to escape or call for help.

Fire Extinguisher

Most homes and workplaces have a fire extinguisher for safety reasons, but it can also be used for defense. A blast of chemical spray can obscure an attacker’s vision, and the extinguisher itself is heavy enough to serve as a blunt object if necessary.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

While these household items can serve as makeshift defensive tools, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications of using them. In New Jersey, self-defense laws are specific about when and how force can be used. Individuals must prove that they reasonably believed they were in imminent danger and that their response was necessary.

It’s always best to focus on prevention first—locking doors, installing security cameras, and avoiding confrontations when possible. If self-defense becomes necessary, using non-lethal methods is preferable to avoid legal trouble.

Final Thoughts

Personal safety is a serious matter, and while traditional self-defense tools may not always be accessible, creative thinking can help individuals feel more prepared. The key takeaway is to stay aware, be proactive about security, and know the legal implications of any defensive action.

Would you consider using any of these household items for self-defense? Share your thoughts on which ones seem the most practical!