Van Life Safety Personal Safety Devices for Living in a Van

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  • Опубликовано: 1 окт 2024

Комментарии • 177

  • @Sandra.Sandy.Robinson
    @Sandra.Sandy.Robinson 2 года назад +42

    I absolutely love it when you test and compare items for us. Thank you both,

  • @denisescull4227
    @denisescull4227 2 года назад +35

    I like the whistle around the neck and an air horn in a vehicle. The reason I like the whistle is that it doesn't require me to remember a battery or to charge something. Thanks for the info!

  • @huntermccoy7641
    @huntermccoy7641 2 года назад +50

    A tin can with rocks in it, Tied to your bag. One of the oldest ways to keep bears from taking to long to notice you

    • @justmona9647
      @justmona9647 2 года назад +10

      You made me smile, since when I was teenager we use to hang a tambourine to the base of our backpacks. We jingled all through the forest & when we set camp we'd loosely hang them on sticks.

    • @thirst4truth204
      @thirst4truth204 2 года назад +2

      And you can throw rocks too !

    • @thirst4truth204
      @thirst4truth204 2 года назад +5

      @@justmona9647 did you sing mr. Tambourine man ?

    • @justmona9647
      @justmona9647 2 года назад +3

      @@thirst4truth204 Sometimes🤣

    • @thirst4truth204
      @thirst4truth204 2 года назад +4

      @@justmona9647 lol that must have sounded so cool when the wind blew and the tambourines made their sounds .. very cool 😎👍👍👍👍

  • @tmad5358
    @tmad5358 2 года назад +18

    THE personal alarm with pull pin works great for camp security because you can set up a trip wire to it.

  • @FatElmoCanoo
    @FatElmoCanoo 2 года назад +19

    How can you tell the difference between black bear scat and grizzly bear scat? The black bear scat contains berry pits, some small bones and vegetation... while grizzly bear scat contains bear bells and whistles.

  • @terrapintravels3829
    @terrapintravels3829 2 года назад +28

    I've kept a metal whistle on my keyring for 14 years. I haven't had to use it yet but I'm glad I have it. Thank you Bob and Brian for this important safety video.🦋

  • @GaLGoThACRuCiBLe
    @GaLGoThACRuCiBLe 2 года назад +18

    I'm really interested in knowing if a bear can be deterred by a different frequency than what humans generally hear.

    • @SlowPCGaming1
      @SlowPCGaming1 2 года назад +1

      Once you know their brown note you're good to go....unless your brown note is the same as theirs. Then the shit really starts flying! Don't know what the brown note is? Go watch the Southpark episode about it.

  • @sigma_carnivoresse
    @sigma_carnivoresse 2 года назад +10

    For my first nomad adventure, I bought a cheap whistle with compass and thermometer and hooked it to my purse. A small measure of precaution that gives me peace of mind in parking lots and such where the two-legged threats often lurk.

  • @turnbullstravels735
    @turnbullstravels735 2 года назад +6

    We are actually in Alaska right now…we talk constantly when hiking, and carry bear spray. If I hike alone, I sing…badly…letting bears know I’m there. Of course, once they hear my singing, they beat a hasty retreat. 😉

  • @davidbryson4692
    @davidbryson4692 2 года назад +5

    Hi Bob and Brian those whistles sound like a good thing to have with you and the horns are good idea too but you should also be carrying a 357 Magnum that's the best for two-legged predators

  • @lisaroth7526
    @lisaroth7526 2 года назад +11

    One of the first things I bought in preparation for traveling solo in my van was a bright orange whistle from Walmart. I do also have the smaller bear horn and might get the larger one if I end up going into forests. For now, my plan is desert life, at least this coming winter.

  • @morrisshepherd1637
    @morrisshepherd1637 2 года назад +9

    Bob and Brian thank you so very much for the class on safety. You are always thinking of others and we appreciate you so much. Now days every person should be doing this no matter where you live. Thanks again!!!

  • @ladikmk
    @ladikmk 2 года назад +7

    I’ve carried a whistle for years when I hike, on a boat, etc. on a lanyard, and have added She’s Birdie personal alarm (130dcb) to my keychain for walking. Now I also carry a silent dog whistle that my dog knows is just for her. There’s an air horn in my vehicle always. Nothing silly at all about being prepared; especially if it makes you feel more confident/safe.

    • @risemahadeva
      @risemahadeva 2 года назад +2

      I think carrying a silent whistle in addition to a regular whistle is a great idea. The silent whistle, which should be audible to animals only, will alert 4-legged predators of your presence without announcing to the 2-legged predators that you're near. And should one want to alert people that they're in distress then the audible whistle would be used. Thanks for the info!

  • @rogerthornton4068
    @rogerthornton4068 2 года назад +5

    I'm 67 and getting to old to whistle. I can still pull a trigger.

  • @fjtalleyauthor2242
    @fjtalleyauthor2242 2 года назад +7

    Many sailors and boaters have the air horns. They seem to carry even greater distances over the water, and of course, in the cabin of a boat, they're right at hand.

  • @CarrieMtn
    @CarrieMtn 2 года назад +5

    I camp in my Prius. I have a small air horn in the compartment on each of my doors. Cheap- easy to reach when needed.

  • @johnedgette1726
    @johnedgette1726 2 года назад +4

    I spend most of my time in my 97 Dakota truck,sleeping, driving to remote locations, working remotely. I had installed genuine train air horns. To scare away human n animal predators as well as to get help in remote locations. The air compressor will inflate tires as well. Comes in handy at other times too…..when I am driving in Manhattan or on the highway for eg! Expensive, $500 installed, but if you can afford it, it is worth it.

  • @stevischermi6409
    @stevischermi6409 2 года назад +4

    Bob I have two German shepherds in my van. Stopped at post office later evening and car followed me in. Had odd feeling as and large 250 lb plus man came out of car looking at me and my van. No one else around. Just as he sauntered towards the post office door, one of the shepherds let loose barking. He startled and kept going to door. I waited until he left. 😊

  • @paulampaquette
    @paulampaquette 2 года назад +3

    Thank you Excellent You can also carry the alarm type that goes on a door or window They're light If you separate the two pieces it's going off Anyone worried about getting whistle to mouth can carry that outside of their vehicle Then turn it off when safely back in vehicle

  • @anitasimmons3599
    @anitasimmons3599 2 года назад +4

    Thank you for another informative video. I have always carried a whistle. Bob, the whistle you have around your neck is louder if you blow softer. One word for caution with whistles with moving parts, if they get wet they don't work as well. Thank you again for taking the time to create this video.

  • @purpletam5900
    @purpletam5900 2 года назад +7

    This is excellent subject matter to cover, Guys! Thanks for doing this! I have whistles on my keychains, but I'm actually not sure how loud they are. I've been meaning to get a really loud air horn 📯. It should've been a priority over other things for sure.

  • @bque9444
    @bque9444 2 года назад +5

    If you ride a bicycle in bear country, advise you put a bear bell on your bike, to alert bears of your presence. i would try to put it on a part of the bike that gets the most vibration from bumps and ruts.

  • @douglasp.8640
    @douglasp.8640 2 года назад +4

    Hi guys, I carry a fox 40 with me with spray attached. The carry string on the 40 is breakaway for safety. Check out the story on the fox 40 very interesting.

  • @silaslongshot941
    @silaslongshot941 2 года назад +2

    My idea of a personal defense noise maker comes 50 to a box & sometimes needs a permit. But when used, generally can be heard about a mile out.

  • @n8rlvr876
    @n8rlvr876 2 года назад +6

    I love that you did this… very helpful! I’d been thinking about the personal alarms as gifts for my nieces and sisters, so this info was quite useful.

  • @Priesttx57
    @Priesttx57 2 года назад +5

    I like the idea of the whistle around your neck and the larger air horn for your vehicle. On my maiden voyage I wore a spare key around my neck at Bob’s suggestion, now I’ll add the whistle! Thanks!

  • @cynthiabayly5402
    @cynthiabayly5402 2 года назад +4

    Thank you Bob` you definetly make sure we are safe - I greatly appreciate how you cover everything that makes our lives more comfy and safe while living in a van or Boondocking etc.. Ty Have a blessed and safe week .. peace

  • @stevischermi6409
    @stevischermi6409 2 года назад +4

    Whistle is good, backed up by large dogs backed up by magnum .22

  • @sandralauzon9416
    @sandralauzon9416 2 года назад +1

    I have 2 SHARX whistles they are defeaning....which is what you want....hikers whistles

  • @sylviahamilton3658
    @sylviahamilton3658 2 года назад +2

    Several yrs ago I was kayaking out in a swamp by myself with my dog sitting up in the back. An alligator charged us, but stopped when I blew the fire out of my alert whistle! I blew it to alert anyone nearby(no one was close enough to hear), but it surprised me by stopping the alligator! Altho I wish he had stopped before he was 10 feet away. He charged us about 6x until we were backed out enough to be able to get away. So yes! Carry a whistle!!

    • @qnslanman
      @qnslanman 2 года назад

      GM, what model kayak where you using? I also fish from a kayak, but my dog never was too happy on it. Thx

  • @davidleigh443
    @davidleigh443 2 года назад +3

    Thanks, Bob, for posting. I ordered the Whistle and the Bear Horn. They were both on sale for about $24 on Amazon. A small price to pay if they save my life one day.

  • @theskyehiker
    @theskyehiker 2 года назад +8

    That bear bell is often called a dinner bell. 🤪

    • @xephael3485
      @xephael3485 2 года назад +1

      No kidding 😂

    • @kristenvincent3622
      @kristenvincent3622 2 года назад +1

      Depends on the Bear… 😂 some prefer healthy treats and will avoid the jingling of junk food approaching

    • @kristenvincent3622
      @kristenvincent3622 2 года назад +3

      @@tryingndoing probably a Grizzly or habituated Black Bear. They love garbage 😉 although in a serious bear situation I don’t think any of these are really going to save you, every little bit helps. Backcountry Bear Territory a firearm is not uncommon, even for gathering firewood. Had a Grizzly take out a horse and charge the owner (relative by marriage) in northern BC recently. Didn’t make the news, and he buried the horse of course to avoid attracting more wildlife.

  • @poohsblusteryday8592
    @poohsblusteryday8592 2 года назад +2

    I have the pull tab alarm, one on my purse and one in my camper. It’s a better quality than the ones you reviewed and it is LOUD! Meant for city predators.

  • @keemandikotravels
    @keemandikotravels 2 года назад +5

    Thanks again for all you both do to help us live a safe and awesome life

  • @debrapayne1155
    @debrapayne1155 2 года назад +4

    Never thought of having an air horn while camping in my van. Thanks for sharing this information. Going to get an air horn.

  • @jeremytorgersen
    @jeremytorgersen 2 года назад +17

    Yes, I highly recommend carrying a whistle as part of a personal risk management safety plan.

    • @xephael3485
      @xephael3485 2 года назад

      Yeah you can blow it while you're on the ground knocked out missing your teeth

  • @theartisticnomad15
    @theartisticnomad15 2 года назад +3

    This was very helpful. I just started traveling in the Eastern Maine woods and know I need something to protect against bears. Thanks!

  • @kimsargeant8126
    @kimsargeant8126 2 года назад +1

    I need a whistle anyway for kayaking…it is the rule for water safety in VT.
    I would like to see a written comparison, or at least the 2-3 best, as I couldn’t remember names.
    That said I plan to have an air horn and a whistle with me anyway. I will carry the whistle on a lanyard with my car keys.

  • @craftingwithcharm7665
    @craftingwithcharm7665 Год назад +1

    Thank you guys for the safety tips on the whistles. Appreciate you!😊

  • @barbarapadgett5538
    @barbarapadgett5538 2 года назад +1

    Been carrying a whistle for many years on my purse. This was a great video. Now I just need a big air horn to take in my RV!

  • @jasonthemason1971
    @jasonthemason1971 2 года назад +1

    All you need is an Ideal Conceal pistol. Looks like a cellphone and shoots like a gun………..
    (Fits in a cellphone case)

  • @pandral22
    @pandral22 2 года назад +1

    Not sure if this matters other than maybe in search and rescue. As you age your ability to hear high=pitched sounds decreases. Something like a horn that uses lower frequencies can be heard further away even if the rescuer is older.

  • @bessycorrales2259
    @bessycorrales2259 2 года назад +1

    I had no idea about the back pack whistle. I have small day pack and I just tried it. Thanks!

  • @cathysupp9493
    @cathysupp9493 2 года назад +1

    Double check the packaging on the large funky whistle.....I bought it for boating......works under water!
    B4 you laugh too hard, a lot of scuba diving....

  • @stevischermi6409
    @stevischermi6409 2 года назад +4

    Bears can hear much better than humans.

  • @elaineg4921
    @elaineg4921 2 года назад +2

    Thanks for the information. A simple whistle. I keep forgetting to get one. And bear spray. Blessings for u both

  • @silvanobaca6142
    @silvanobaca6142 2 года назад +1

    I learned a lot,, it amazes me how much I learn from every video of yours, have fun and be safe.. luv u fam...

  • @derykmacleod4979
    @derykmacleod4979 2 года назад +1

    I go mountain biking at a spot near my cabin in Pa, and I have come across bears. I do have some sleigh bells on my bike so I make a little noise but I will be ordering a whistle to also alert cars

  • @itsmimiyallxoxo5624
    @itsmimiyallxoxo5624 2 года назад +1

    Thanks for this video! Very important information and not always the first thing people (people being ME) think of. I like a whistle on a lanyard around the neck.

  • @turnerdan53
    @turnerdan53 2 года назад +1

    I have found some metal referee whistles to be louder than the plastic ones.

  • @PatsTravels
    @PatsTravels 2 года назад +1

    I bought the Storm whistle close to 20-yrs ago for boating and it has been carried in my backpack ever since. Inexpensive and LOUD

  • @Dorn-Dvinn
    @Dorn-Dvinn 2 года назад +1

    Maybe for bears but for people won’t they just smack you in the head to shut you up? This reminds me of those slap fighting martial arts video.

  • @johnmichael308
    @johnmichael308 2 года назад +2

    Big fan of Glock and scattergun

    • @thirst4truth204
      @thirst4truth204 2 года назад

      Nah bro the right to a bear whistle shall not be INFRINGED ..

  • @kele1264
    @kele1264 2 года назад +1

    Really appreciate this test! NOT SILLY! Yes, I'll be buying a few - purse, car, even house (to take out back while gardening). My scream is weak and doesn't carry. A whistle is much better. I'll even take a look at the horns. No effort at safety is silly. Thank you!

  • @normaevett
    @normaevett 2 года назад +2

    Would there be a risk of the aerosol can exploding in the heat of a parked vehicle? Are any of these louder than you yelling? Being female, I've had a whistle on my key chain forever.

  • @deerhaven3350
    @deerhaven3350 2 года назад +2

    Great idea. I have the bear bell and it does make me feel safer just so wildlife knows I'm there. Thank you for always finding ways to look out for us.

  • @rickeydenler2385
    @rickeydenler2385 2 года назад +1

    My friend use to protect his truck with a battery powered cattle fence-'r it wont kill very high voltage low amps I use to raise Siberian Huskies I had a fencer around to keep them from climbing out it worked well until it rained then it would ground out but that won't be a issue on a car or truck or van

  • @craftytraveler9238
    @craftytraveler9238 2 года назад +8

    Iam more afraid of 2 legged predators than 4 legged. My first line of defense is my dog, he isn't big, but he barks loudly. I have a whistle, wasp spray and bear spray. I want to get an air horn.

    • @davidleigh443
      @davidleigh443 2 года назад

      I am more afraid of Bears. A bear can eat the toughest man alive.

  • @kathismith1270
    @kathismith1270 2 года назад +2

    I could see waves coming off the airhorn on the video! Impressive.

  • @M1k3y0501
    @M1k3y0501 2 года назад +2

    My step dad made me a few whistles on his 3D printer. Similar pitch to the sternum strap whistles but I think louder because its 2 or 3 times the size. Probably the loudest whistle I have ever heard. Let me know if I can send you one to try out in the future.

    • @thirst4truth204
      @thirst4truth204 2 года назад

      He should just make you a Gun !there loud

  • @leslieobrien4690
    @leslieobrien4690 2 года назад +1

    I’d do any of those! It could be pretty silly to yell at bears or to sing Christmas songs to alert bears, but I’d do that too. None of the options shown were silly.

  • @KirkKramer
    @KirkKramer 15 дней назад

    Man! Bob, this video blowed, a gunshot is loud and effective.If the sound don't scare "whatever " away, you have a viable backup.

  • @salinamaddox379
    @salinamaddox379 2 года назад +1

    Still working on getting a new engine for my 2005 minivan . Then I'll be on the road. Can't wait to meet you. My hero !

  • @lindasue8719
    @lindasue8719 2 года назад

    I was curious regarding the personal USB alarm, if it was just out of the box maybe the charge wasn't adequate? I'd be interested to know how it performed on a full charge.
    It just happened to buy a weird looking clunky whistle online yesterday. If I have an opportunity to test it without bothering anyone, I will follow up here.
    Great video, thanks! 🖖🏼

  • @sparkymtgal
    @sparkymtgal 2 года назад +11

    I also recommend the air horns for people in their RV. I park close enough to others that they would hear the horn if I blew it. I keep it in case someone is messing with my vehicle, I blast it out the window and scare people off.

  • @susanmerritt8331
    @susanmerritt8331 2 года назад +1

    Thanks guys. Love these informative videos! I have a whistle but because of it's size I fail to carry it with me. Time to rethink my strategy.

  • @kiwitraveller6451
    @kiwitraveller6451 2 года назад

    I have a sports whistle and sheep whistle.....and bug spray for protection....that's for people not animals tho...we do not have bears or critters like those in the states...phew!!! Hehe!!! 😀😀Thanks for sharing always great to watch this channel...😍

  • @kimberluna2226
    @kimberluna2226 2 года назад

    Love the video.... I picked up a $5 bullhorn from harbor freight it's pretty loud..lol only have had to use it on occasion....

  • @davidbacon9223
    @davidbacon9223 2 года назад

    there are MOUNTAIN LIONS in the hills behind Berkeley!!! (homelessness)

  • @SuperJimid
    @SuperJimid 2 года назад

    I found a 2006 Honda Odessy ex. Took out the seats,put up my curtains, have my sleeping bag bed. All I need to find plastic tubs,toilet, and solar panels and generator and invertet.

  • @scottmcfarland2149
    @scottmcfarland2149 2 года назад +1

    I own at least six different whistles. One in every pack. 🤣Storm is by far my favorite and loudest. Thanks for another great video Bob.

  • @targetedminnesota9369
    @targetedminnesota9369 2 года назад

    Thank You for doing a video on safety... I have pet's and I worry about snakes. Also, I remember you saying in a video that Coyote's almost got ur dog. Those are the things that keep me from being a Nomad. I might not have a choice someday. Thank You.

  • @tbacon2784
    @tbacon2784 Год назад

    I have my grandfathers old metal whistle and cleaned it out w
    ubbing alchohol. If I am able to get out on the road and camping, I would not hesitate to wear it around my neck, I already have it on a chain. P.S. it is LOUD! Thank you for this very informative video. My husband got me one of those push a button noise makers, but the batteries never seemed to last very long, and I can see where they could be made to go off accidentally since mine did a couple of times when it got caught up in something which caused the button to depress. I don't really feel comfortable having one of them around, I almost scared somebody half to death when it went off in a government building! Scared me as well! The air horns don't seem to last more than a use or two, especially when my kids became enamored with it! It is probably worth keeping in a vehicle if there are no kids trying to use it as you drive down the highway, but I think for me, the whistle is the best for keeping on your person with the air horn in your car...

  • @gregreid5282
    @gregreid5282 Месяц назад

    Has anybody had any problems with two legged predators while boondocking? I am a single male, and only once have I been in a situation that i felt threatened.

  • @MyNomadicDream
    @MyNomadicDream 6 месяцев назад

    A firearm is always the best thing when a bear is charging you. Especially a charging bear. So many stories of people using a a whole can of bear spray and being klled by the bear. Always have a back up plan

  • @dlight2669
    @dlight2669 Год назад

    Can someone who knows tell me plz if they remember a past video about going nomad, safety and domestic violence? If you have the link, yr and date, or can reference it that would be helpful. Thx

  • @srrfounder1
    @srrfounder1 2 года назад +1

    There is a MEDIUM sized
    fog horn used in Search &
    Rescue, that's my choice!

  • @landonashby2029
    @landonashby2029 2 года назад +1

    Fox 40 makes other whistles that may be more practical for someone to carry. They are a quality brand. Ive carried a small black Fox 40 for many years. I often use it for grabbing attention of pedestrians when ebiking and for distracting the random chasing dog. Although sound does not always work to deter some dogs.

  • @sandyallen1523
    @sandyallen1523 2 года назад

    My brother gave me a whistle that you blow in. It is flat with a notch taken out on both sides, it's louder than any of those you tried out Bob. I wish I knew the brand name. It's about 3" long n 2/3" wide

  • @CihaPet
    @CihaPet 2 года назад

    For alerts while you are in your vehicle, most newer vehicles have a panic button on the fob. That will scare off the bad guys and alert the neighbors...

  • @turquoisewitch.wild-owl
    @turquoisewitch.wild-owl 2 года назад +1

    I'd take an air horn with me in a bag or back pack pocket that was easy to reach.

  • @SuperJimid
    @SuperJimid 2 года назад

    Thank you Bob for your inspiration from your videos! Van life here I come.

  • @kathymack3791
    @kathymack3791 2 года назад

    I have the orange hyperwhistle but I am going to buy an air horn and extra canisters Yo keep in my car snd my trailer. They used to sell that at the Dollar Tree store but I’m not sure if they still do.

  • @rianlynn3854
    @rianlynn3854 2 года назад

    Ill tell you what carries and gets attention, the most high pitched ear shattering scream you can manage =D then blow a whistle, or visa versa.

  • @stormyrivers
    @stormyrivers 2 года назад

    Great Information!
    Thank you!
    ✌😎👍

  • @SlowPCGaming1
    @SlowPCGaming1 2 года назад

    A graph showing the range of each whistle and air horn for its loudness and range is so much easier to follow. Nicely done.

  • @clarasmith1873
    @clarasmith1873 2 года назад

    Thank you for a great review. I will have to get a whistle. I like the idea off something with no battery needed.

  • @jamesisaacs6504
    @jamesisaacs6504 2 года назад

    I am clean good for 6 more moths.i put my pants shirt and socks on the hood of my truck in the rain and hot shower.a garden water can is good. Put it on fire hot shower.

  • @marcelolney4213
    @marcelolney4213 2 года назад

    A Xmas bell hooked to your locked latch / door is a good night alarm.2 legged predators .

  • @shamanblackfoot9235
    @shamanblackfoot9235 2 года назад

    Hello sir I watched a video of yours on the beat farms in Minnesota ,did you take it down I cannot find it for the life of me not in my liked videos watched or this list

  • @angiekrajewski6419
    @angiekrajewski6419 2 года назад

    Why not have a cowbell!!! A lot better won’t run out of gaz or battery..etc…

  • @suekaiser6348
    @suekaiser6348 2 года назад

    I could see the waves of sound too! Wow, how weird . Thanks for all you do!

  • @janchapman3746
    @janchapman3746 2 года назад +1

    A metal whistle is great. Thank you. No batteries needed.

  • @hargersadventures
    @hargersadventures 2 года назад

    Yes, I would wear a whistle around my neck.

  • @RLeeVanCamps
    @RLeeVanCamps 2 года назад

    Walk my dog in an area where sometimes we have coyotes. I carry a whistle always

  • @jamiedenton4492
    @jamiedenton4492 2 года назад +3

    My concern with the bear bell is cougars. That sound would arose so much curiosity in a cat. I wouldn't use this for that reason. And often, where there are bears, there are cougars.

  • @cynthiamgentles6781
    @cynthiamgentles6781 2 года назад

    Thought about a portable electric bear fence? Well worth it

  • @skooliecarol8542
    @skooliecarol8542 2 года назад

    B nB....GREAT VIDEO...SO HELPFUL

  • @jollymatilda5890
    @jollymatilda5890 2 года назад +2

    I had a whistle I carried for probably over 20 years. It actually broke and I just never bought another one. I carry the small air horn I bought at Walmart in my purse for predators in the city. When we would go camping in Canada for the summer, I'd sing a lot when we went on hikes. I have a really loud voice. But that actually gets really tiring after awhile. I'll be buying another whistle. Great review Bob and Brian and CRVL Crew. Thank you all.
    ❤❤❤

  • @bigjoe2458
    @bigjoe2458 Год назад

    Ca bear hear a high-pitched dog whistle? the ones that are silent.