Not so safe streets

June 19, 6:39 AMCleveland Gun Rights ExaminerDaniel White

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Courtesy of Oleg Volk

The warmer months always bring with them an increase in violent crime. With the tough economic times, we could be in for a greater increase than usual. Three recent incidents in Columbus, Ohio highlight the trend.

Early this morning, two gunmen robbed a BP station and got into a firefight with police. One witness reported hearing 20-30 shots. One of the robbers was hit and taken to the hospital.

Yesterday morning, a man reportedly fired shots at a house before fleeing and being chased by police. During the chase, he pointed his gun at himself and at police before throwing it out the window of his vehicle before crashing an being apprehended.

Also yesterday, a shotgun wielding man robbed a Starbucks, threatening employees at gunpoint before fleeing with an undisclosed sum. He's a suspect in several other robberies.

Add these to yesterday's stories of robbery and murder and it seems we have a higher than normal crime wave going on. As criminals become more brazen in their attacks, what is the average citizen to do?

Some "experts" will tell you that the odds you'll come into contact with any of these criminals are low, so you should just go about your life, don't go out after dark unless you must, never go anywhere alone, and rely on the (now dwindling) police forces to keep you safe.

A better option is to take responsibility for your own safety. Buy a gun and get training to use it properly. Get a concealed handgun license. Say 'no' to crime.

The gun grabbers don't want to hear that. They'll tell you that guns are the root of all evil and that if you try to defend yourself with one a criminal would just take it away from you. Don't buy the hype. Stories abound of armed citizens saving themselves and others because they were prepared for the worst.

It is true that the odds are low that you'll be killed by a violent criminal. The odds are also low that your house will burn down, yet you probably have homeowners insurance. The odds are of little comfort if it does happen to you and you're helpless. It is certainly better to be armed and not need it than to be unarmed when you do.

Being prepared to defend yourself isn't being paranoid, it is being prudent. If you are attacked by a violent criminal, odds are he's prepared and armed, whether with a gun, knife, crowbar, or simply superior strength. It is your choice whether or not you're able to meet force with force, or if you'll submit and hope it is just your money he's after.