I know you recommend putting up signs such as having a security system. Do you think this would make burglars more likely to break in since they know you’re protecting something?

-From Jennifer J.

Answer: The number of homes that have security systems is increasing thanks to the many security options including DIY systems.

My point is more and more people are getting these systems for personal safety especially at night and not just because they may own valuables.

Most burglars are looking for easy access to homes and they don’t want to set off an alarm.

Typically, burglars aren’t masterminds and won’t be planning an elaborate burglary.

I personally think having an alarm sign will act as more of a deterrent to the average burglar and is something everyone should have even if they don’t actually have a security system.

The fact is, if I am a burglar, I want the home with the easiest access, not the home that’s going to set off a loud alarm that notifies police.

 

My whole family has bulletproof backpacks and luggage. We are taking a family vacation to Mexico. Can we pass through TSA security with our bulletproof bags?

-From Chase B.

Answer: According to the TSA, body armor is allowed in carry-on or checked bags. But, TSA screeners make the final decision on what is allowed.

I’ve traveled often with my bulletproof backpack and I’ve never had a problem.

As for traveling internationally, I would call the specific international airport you are traveling to. The laws will vary from country to country.

The last thing you want is to be caught in a foreign country where body armor could be illegal.

 

What is your opinion on gun safes that open when a key fob or watch is nearby? Would you buy this type of RFID safe?

-From Brit D.

Answer: I don’t like RFID or fingerprint access safes. I don’t own either of these types of safes.

I’ve heard too many horror stories of people not being able to open them because the RFID signal was delayed or didn’t work.

Or they wouldn’t open because the batteries were dead in the RFID watch or safe. There are a lot of things that can go wrong with these types of safes.

Just too much technology that can break down and cause your safe not to open when you need it most.

 

Is it a good idea to carry a concealed pistol in the small of the back? Or is this a movie thing?

-From Jamal O.

Answer: No, I would never recommend that anyone carry concealed in the small of their back.

In addition to injury (if you fell on your back), it takes too long to draw the gun.

You need to be able to have a smooth draw, lightning fast. Appendix carrying is typically easier to conceal and move around. So is pocket carry or on the hip.

 

I’ve heard you mention building a ghost gun. I’m confused about how they work from a legal standpoint. If I get caught with a ghost gun is it illegal?

-From Barry T.

Answer: Under federal law it is 100 percent legal for a private citizen to manufacture a firearm as long as they are not legally barred from owning or possessing a firearm.

But, you also need to check local and state laws. For example, in California it is illegal to build a pistol that has not been tested or certified.

As long as you are allowed to walk into a gun store and buy a gun, you can also build your own at home under federal laws.

Just don’t ever sell the firearm, because then you become a manufacturer.

 

My family evacuated right before hurricane Idalia hit the Florida coast. We had all our gear ready to go. The one thing we didn’t prepare for was how to secure the house from looters. How should we do this in the future?

-From Christina C.

Answer: If you are planning on leaving your house you need to take an inventory of everything you have inside. What I mean is, you should take your cell phone and video record the entire house.

Basically, walk through the house and identify every item including TV’s all the way down to plates and cups. The more video you have the better, since it could potentially be gone when you return.

In addition, you want to board up windows and doors to prevent anything from coming through. Make sure you install plywood that is at least 1/2-inch-thick and ensure it covers the entire opening because even a little gap can wreak havoc.

Lastly, unplug everything in the home including appliances and move them to the highest point in the house that you can reasonably do so.

Also, right before you leave, shut off the power and water to the home. Ideally, you want to make your house as unappealing as possible to criminals.