From Zion, to the Rocky Mountains, to Glacier National Park, over 300 million people visit one of America’s beautiful national parks each year.

And it’s no wonder why. For nature lovers who enjoy hiking, boating, camping, and site-seeing, the nation’s parks really can’t be beat. But any time you go out in nature, you risk running into wild animals (or people). And while that’s part of the appeal for many, it’s also a good reason to go packing.

But can you carry your firearm in a national park? What are the rules?

Yes, concealed carry in national parks is allowed so long as it’s legal in that state. That being said, you won’t be able to bring a gun into any buildings, and different rules may apply depending on where you’re going and what you’re doing.

So, whether you’re going to explore the geysers in Yellowstone or the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, here’s everything you need to know about carrying in these public lands.

Can You Carry Firearms in National Parks?

Whether you’re on a road trip and thinking about making a stop to see the redwoods or you’ve been planning a backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains for months, you’re probably considering your options for defending yourself in these great outdoor spaces.

But, are guns allowed in national parks?

In short, yes – carrying guns in national parks is perfectly legal so long as you follow local guidelines.

In 2010, Congress passed the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act, which ensures that at the federal level, there are no laws restricting visitors from bringing a firearm into national park boundaries. However, state restrictions still apply, so the rules in place will be determined by local regulations.

Other federal laws, such as banning weapons in federal buildings, are still enforced as well, so make sure you’re aware of those restrictions.

Before you strap on your holster and hiking boots, take a look at the gun laws in the state where the park is located to get up to speed on what you can and can’t do there to avoid any trouble.

Open Carry in National Parks

Again, as long as it is legal in the state where you are, then you are free to openly carry a firearm in a national park so long as you avoid federal buildings and other “gun-free” zones.

Concealed Carry in National Parks

When it comes to national park concealed carry, the same rules apply: it all comes down to what you can and can’t do at a state level.

In many parks, you will need to have a valid concealed carry permit from the state – or from one that honors yours. In constitutional carry states, you can conceal a weapon without a permit as long as you meet the legal requirements.

So, while you can take your gun to hike Delicate Arch in Utah if you have a Minnesota CCW permit, you won’t be able to take it to Mount Rainier in Washington. But if you’re visiting Acadia National Park in Maine, which has constitutional carry, you’re free to carry a firearm with or without a permit.

For an overview of the rules on open and concealed carry in the states where different national parks are located, and to see which states honor your concealed carry permit, check out the U.S. Concealed Carry Association’s list here.

Firearms in National Parks: Rules and Considerations

If you’ve done your research and found that you can take a gun into the national park you’re visiting, great! But before you zip your pistol in your hiking pack and head out, there are a few more things to keep in mind.

You Can’t Bring Your Gun Into a Federal Building

Just because you can bring a weapon into a national park does not mean that you can take it everywhere, even if you have a concealed carry license.

Bringing firearms into federal buildings is still illegal – that includes park offices, visitor centers, ranger stations, fee collection buildings, and even bathrooms.

This rule may even extend to parking lots and public transportation vehicles like shuttles and ferries depending on the state. When in doubt, check for signs indicating that firearms are prohibited, or you can ask a nearby ranger to be sure.

You Can’t Fire Your Weapon in a National Park

Unless you have a very, very good reason for doing so, discharging a firearm in a national park is strictly forbidden.

While these gorgeous lands may look like the perfect place for plinking, you will get slapped with some pretty hefty consequences if you do so. You should never fire a weapon in a national park unless it’s an emergency.

But, what if you’re attacked by an animal or rogue human while exploring the park? Can you use your gun to defend yourself?

Obviously, if your life is in danger, you’ll be reaching for your weapon whether it’s man or beast. That being said, the National Park Service instructs visitors not to consider their firearm protection from wildlife within their borders.

So, what are you supposed to do if Yogi Bear comes tromping through your campsite? Roll over and become bear chow? Of course not! But you should come prepared with some sort of non-lethal weapon, like bear spray, to defend yourself from animals. Your gun should be used as a last resort when it comes to nature in national parks.

Some Parks Span Multiple States

Another thing to consider is that some parks actually span across multiple states, so the rules regarding carrying firearms might change depending on where you are at any given time.

Yellowstone National Park, for example, is so large it’s spread across Montana, Wyoming, and even part of Idaho. Not to mention Death Valley, which is located in both California and Nevada (two states with very different gun laws).

If you’re visiting a park that’s located in multiple states, you’ll need to thoroughly research the regulations in each to ensure you can carry in each of them.

Once you know the different rules you’ll have to follow in each state, make sure you have a map that shows you exactly where the borders are within the park so you don’t inadvertently break the law. You should be able to pick one of these up at the park entrance.

There May Be Different Rules for Having a Gun in Your Car

Okay, we’ve talked about open and concealed carry in national parks. But what about if you’re just driving through, or you want to leave your weapon in the parking lot?

Again, the answer to this question depends on the state you’re in.

Many states have different rules regarding guns in vehicles. Some allow you to transport a loaded weapon, while others may require you to keep it unloaded and maybe even separate from the ammunition. So, before you drive through the entrance to the park, you’ll need to research the rules in that state regarding transporting a firearm in a vehicle.

You’ll also want to make sure that any parking lot you enter is not a gun-free zone. Because some states may consider parking lots federal property, firearms might be banned there. Look for signs indicating such, or ask a park ranger if you’re unsure.

Some Weapons May Be Restricted

You can bring nearly any type of firearm into a national park, as long as the weapon is not restricted by the state.

Pistols, revolvers, shotguns, and rifles are all allowed in the park. However, some states do have stricter gun laws, which is something you’ll have to pay attention to.

In parks like Yosemite and Sequoia, for example, which are in California, your gun can’t hold more than 10 rounds. At the Grand Canyon in Arizona, on the other hand, you bring nearly any firearm you want.

While firearms, in general, are allowed in national parks, not all other weapons are. Bows, swords (bummer, we know), and pellet or BB guns are still prohibited.

Hunting is Illegal in Most National Parks

Most national parks are teeming with wildlife (hellooo Everglades), which may be a major driving factor behind why you want to bring your gun with you in the first place.

But, it’s important to note that hunting within the vast majority of parks is strictly prohibited. And even in parks where hunting is allowed, there are usually plenty of regulations, and likely even a permit, involved.

Can You Carry a Gun in a National Forest?

Carrying guns, and shooting, in a national forest or grassland is perfectly legal. In fact, these areas are common recreational grounds for hunters and target shooters alike.

The only exception would be if your local forest has a restriction on shooting, which happens occasionally due to things like fire risk. Federal buildings in the national forest are, again, also off-limits.

But that also doesn’t mean you can just waltz into a national forest and start shooting at everything. There are rules that prohibit you from doing things like shooting near a building, across a road, or over a body of water, among other things.

To learn the ins and outs of shooting in a national forest, head to the National Forest Service’s website.

Summary

As long as it’s okay in the state you’re in, open and/or concealed carry in national parks is perfectly legal.

That being said, you will need to plan ahead to make sure that you won’t be crossing into multiple states while exploring the park, and you’ll want to skip the visitors center, as bringing a weapon into a federal building remains illegal.

But, generally speaking, as long as you safely and legally carry your weapon, and only fire it in the event of an emergency, you shouldn’t run into any trouble carrying firearms in national parks.

Before your visit, you’ll want to make sure your holster is up for the task. A comfortable, safe, and durable Kydex holster will not only keep your weapon secure while you hike, kayak, or bike throughout the park, but it will guarantee you can enjoy the views in comfort rather than fighting off any chaffing.

If you’re looking for a new IWB, OWB, or pocket carry holster for your trip, visit our Holsters by Gun Model page for Kydex holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice.

Interested in items beyond holsters? Check out our Resources Page for links to recommended products like lights, lasers, first aid, maintenance, and more, and browse our selection of apparel, and accessories at our website, vedderholsters.com.

To stay up-to-date on all the latest Vedder Holsters content and offerings, check out our blog and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And be sure to visit our sister company, GeoGrit, for all of your American-made minimalist wallet needs.

Check out the original post at VedderHolsters.com.

As concealed carriers, one of the best training tools we have is to study a variety of self-defense cases and learn from them.

By evaluating these situations and looking at what went wrong, what went right, and how it might have been handled differently, we gain a better understanding of how these incidents unfold and become better prepared to defend ourselves.

On August 16, 2022, an off-duty police officer fired at a man who repeatedly tried to run him over in his own driveway – once successfully. Let’s break it down.

Incident Breakdown

In a quiet neighborhood in Decatur, Alabama, Ring doorbell footage captured a strange scene in which an off-duty police officer fired shots at a man who ran over him with his Jeep.

The original Ring doorbell footage can be viewed here, so you can see what happened for yourself. Warning: the video may be disturbing to some viewers.

According to a source close to the investigation who wished to remain anonymous, on the evening of August 16, off-duty Decatur police officer Jack Brown was at home with his family when he heard a vehicle coming down the street with its engine revving and gears grinding.

Heading outside to see what was going on, Brown saw a black 2012 Jeep Wrangler whose driver stared at him a moment before driving forward, making a U-turn, and driving toward the officer’s driveway. When the Jeep stopped behind Brown’s parked police cruiser, he decided to approach the driver and ask if everything was okay.

The driver, later identified as 54-year-old Gregory Martin Hill of Decatur, swore at Brown before abruptly pulling forward and crashing into a vehicle that was passing by, totaling it, according to the source.

Brown quickly jumped into action, checking on the woman in the other vehicle to see if she was alright and calling police dispatch to report the incident and give a description of the Jeep and driver.

Case Note: Noting the physical details of an assailant and their belongings can go a long way in a police investigation. Always practice situational awareness so you can provide as much detail as possible in the event your attacker flees the scene.

While Brown was talking to the woman in the vehicle, Hill allegedly drove back down the street, made another U-turn, and started speeding directly toward the off-duty officer, which is about where the video begins.

In the Ring doorbell footage, Brown is seen quickly jumping out of the way of the vehicle. The Jeep slams into a tree, and Brown runs back toward the house. He takes a quick spill in the driveway and then continues to run toward the home, where his kids were waiting inside.

In the video, you can hear Brown shouting his address to dispatch before he throws his phone onto a camping chair on the front porch. He then dashes inside to grab his duty gun and handcuffs, AL.com reports.

Case Note: Any time you’re confronting a situation that makes you suspicious or uncomfortable, you should have your gun with you. It doesn’t do you any good if you don’t have it!

Once Brown is inside, you can see Hill get out of his vehicle and start running up the driveway after him. He stops when he gets to the porch, looks at the phone, which still has dispatch on speaker, turns around, and walks back toward his Jeep.

Case Note: When you’re on the phone with dispatch, it’s a good idea to stay on the phone with dispatch. It’s important that you stay on the line so you can communicate what’s going on and help clarify any important details they may have misheard or misunderstood – like your address. That being said, in this situation, it appears that having dispatch on speaker may have caused Hill to think twice about following Brown into the house.

Just before Hill re-enters his vehicle, Brown is seen on camera running back outside toward Hill with his pistol pointed at him. He can be heard yelling at Hill, commanding him to show his hands and “get on the ground right now.”

Despite the officer’s repeated commands, Hill gets back in his Jeep. Brown follows him to the driver’s side of the vehicle and continues pointing his gun at Hill and yelling at him.

That’s when things get really crazy.

The video shows the Jeep backing into the road, losing its bumper in the process. Brown, who is left standing in the driveway, continues pointing at the Jeep with his gun. He then takes a moment to kick the bumper out of his way and briefly lowers his weapon. 

Case Note: When dealing with an attacker, seek cover whenever possible. Your safety should be your main priority, and remaining out in the open could be detrimental.

It’s at that moment that Brown notices the Jeep barreling toward him. He immediately raises his firearm and begins shooting at the vehicle, which slams into him. Fortunately, Brown was able to push off of the hood with his hand and roll before the Jeep ran over his left thigh.

Brown fired eight shots in total, four of which struck the windshield of the Jeep. None of the bullets penetrated the glass, so Hill was not struck in the incident.

Despite having just been hit, Brown manages to stand up, point his gun at Hill, and, once again, command him to show his hands. This is where the video ends. According to our source, Hill continued to defy Brown’s demands and stuck his hands into his pockets, quickly pulling them out as if he had a weapon.

By the time Brown realized Hill was unarmed, Hill had run around a tree and back to his Jeep. He tried to back the vehicle up to leave, but its multiple collisions had caused some damage, and he was unable to turn the wheels. Brown opened the door to the Jeep, and Hill allegedly lunged for his weapon. To prevent him from taking it, Brown dropped the magazine and threw it out of reach.

Case Note: It’s not uncommon for assailants to reach for your gun to try to use it against you. Always be aware of their body language and be ready to react quickly. In this case, it was better for nobody to have a weapon than for the bad guy to have the only one.

That’s when Brown’s neighbor came out and tackled Hill. Together, they fought him until police arrived and apprehended Hill, taking him into custody.

The Aftermath

Once Hill was arrested, Brown was transported to the local hospital for evaluation and treatment. Luckily, it was found that he was not seriously injured, suffering from a strained ACL, dislocated knee cap, and a busted lip, and he was released later that same night.

An investigation into the incident revealed that there was no apparent connection between the two men, according to AL.com

Following his arrest, Hill was booked into the Morgan County Jail. He was initially charged with second-degree assault for his alleged actions and was held on a $50,000 cash bond, Decatur Daily reported.

A few days later, the charges were upgraded to attempted murder, and his bond was increased to $1 million cash with the condition that he remain under house arrest with GPS monitoring and supervision and no access to alcohol or firearms. He was also ordered not to have contact with Brown or the Decatur Police Department, according to News19. His court date is unknown.

Reflection

After learning the details of the encounter, it’s time to reflect on what happened and how you might have handled the same situation.

Do you think the off-duty officer handled the incident correctly? Why or why not? Do you think there was anything that could or should have been done differently? How would you have handled the same situation? Be sure to share your thoughts on this case with us on social media @VedderHolsters.

Knowledge is power, and analyzing incidents like these can only serve to better prepare you to respond appropriately in the event you are faced with a similar situation. For more resources on training, information on local gun control and concealed carry laws, and general CCW tips, check out the U.S. Concealed Carry Association.

If you’re looking for belts or holsters, we recommend visiting our Holsters by Gun Model page if you are looking for holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice. For all of our belt and holster options and for more information to help you choose the carry system that works best for you, visit our Vedder Holsters website.

Looking for items beyond holsters and belts, check out our Resources Page for popular product links like lights, lasers, first aid, maintenance, and more.

To stay up-to-date on all the latest Vedder Holsters content and offerings, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And be sure to check out our sister company, GeoGrit, for all of your American-made minimalist wallet needs.

Check out the original article at VedderHolsters.com.

A thin, blue line stretched across a black background. You’ve likely seen this icon, and possibly displayed it yourself, to show support for law enforcement officers. But do you know the origins of this pivotal symbol?

What started as a phrase has evolved over the years into a symbol that represents the police officers who stand between peace and society’s descent into violence and chaos. Today, supporters proudly display the thin blue line to show their respect for law enforcement and everything they do for the communities they serve.

This important icon has been associated with the police for many years. But most people aren’t aware of the emblem’s rich history and deeper meaning. So, what’s the story?

What Does the Thin Blue Line Mean?

We all recognize a blue line as something that shows support for law enforcement, but what is the thin blue line and what does it represent, exactly?

The thin blue line is a symbol that honors all law enforcement personnel. It stands for the courage and sacrifice that our “boys in blue” exhibit every day when they put on that uniform and work to defend and protect the community. The blue line has also been used to honor those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Traditionally appearing against a solid black background, the thin blue line itself is meant to represent a line of officers standing as a barrier between peace and chaos. The blue was chosen based on the traditional navy police uniform, which is itself a “testimony to true blue loyalty and steadfastness,” according to Police1.

But the blue line is not free of controversy. In light of recent incidents and allegations of police brutality, the line has faced criticism and, sadly, has been misused by some groups to spark division and make statements that aren’t in line with its true meaning.

But, according to the National Police Association, the message behind the thin blue line is not one of violence or even authority. Rather, it is quite the opposite – it has been, and still is, a symbol of peace.

“It is not part of a battle cry by police officers of aggression toward the public or those who oppose law and order. It is not a flag pronouncing superiority of class or privilege. It is a symbol to the citizenry that the thin blue line will not be broken,” Chief Joel F. Shults writes in an article for the National Police Association. “For a police officer, it says they are a part of something bigger than themselves. For the civilian, it says they are willing to stand with those who join in everyone’s responsibility to maintain peace and those whose vocation is dedicated to maintaining peace.”

To truly understand the significance of the blue line, one must understand its history. From its origination in 1854 to more recent moments in the spotlight, understanding this symbol’s past helps us better understand its place in today’s society.

History of the Thin Blue Line

While the actual blue line movement began fairly recently, the roots of the emblem can be traced back to the 19th century.

1854 – Before there was the thin blue line, there was the thin red line, which dates back to the Crimean War. The term was coined by the British, who used it to refer to their infantrymen who wore red coats and formed a “thin red line” at the front of the Battle of Balaclava in 1854.

During the battle, the 93rd Highland Regiment of Foot of the British Army successfully warded off a Russian cavalry force of 2,500 men. About 400 members of the 93rd Regiment stood between the Russians and Balaklava, creating a thin red line of about two soldiers deep – about half the standard size. When the Russians retreated and the Regiment prevailed, the term “the thin red line” was coined to recognize their valor and bravery.

1911 – Over the years, the term spread to other professions, such as the “thin white line of bishops.” The first record of the term “the thin blue line” being used was in 1911 when Nels Dickmann Anderson used it to refer to the blue-clad U.S. Army in his poem, “The Thin Blue Line.”

The second stanza of the poem reads:

“The thin, blue line that fights for right,

That never bends the knee to might,

Has ever since it knew God’s light

Fought dark Oppression in his lair,

And routed Wrong from valleys fair,

Sweet Peace and Plenty leaving there.”

1922 – Though there is no official record of when the term was first used in reference to law enforcement, the thin blue line was used by New York City Police Commissioner Richard Enright in 1922 in a public relations attempt to quell criticism of his leadership.

After that, the term grew in popularity and began popping up in political speeches and press coverage across the nation, according to an article published by The Marshall Project.

1950s – Usage of the thin blue line became even more widespread in the 1950s thanks to Los Angeles Police Chief Bill Parker, who frequently used the phrase in his speeches. Parker even used the term for the title of the TV show, “The Thin Blue Line,” which ran briefly in the ‘50s to positively promote the LAPD.

1970s-1980s – In the ‘70s and ’80s, the blue line started popping up in even more media. By the early 1970s, the term was widely used among United States police departments. It became even more popularized when it appeared in police novels written by officer Joseph Wambaugh throughout the two decades.

In 1988, the term was used in the film “The Thin Blue Line,” a documentary by Errol Morris about the trial and conviction of Randall Dale Adams who killed Dallas police officer Robert W. Wood in 1976, which promoted the phrase even further.

2014 – In 2014, a “Blue Lives Matter” movement was initiated after two St. Louis-area police officers were shot in the line of duty during a protest following the police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri.

It was during this time of conflict and division that the thin blue line reappeared in the public eye and became widespread on social media.

Seeing the widespread use of the thin blue line graphic online and ongoing anti-police protests that occurred following the creation of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2013, college student Andrew Jacob created the first thin blue line flag in 2014 and founded Thin Blue Line USA – one of the largest online retailers of blue line products and apparel to this day, according to The Marshall Project.

2017 – In 2017, the thin blue line faced massive criticism following its use at the infamous “Unite the Right” rally on Aug. 12, 2017, in Charlottesville, Virginia.

The rally, which was organized in response to the city’s decision to remove a Robert E. Lee statue from a local park, quickly turned violent when protestors and counter-protesters clashed – resulting in the death of Heather Heyer and the injury of dozens of others.

Though the incident has been widely rebuffed by most Blue Lives Matter groups and police supporters, the actions of a few that day resulted in bad press and further criticism of the movement.

Jacob, the founder of Thin Blue Line USA, has come to the blue line’s defense, saying the flag was designed as a way to show support for police officers – nothing more – and has publicly rebuked the actions at the Unite the Right rally, according to The Marshall Project.

“The flag has no association with racism, hatred, bigotry,” he told the new outlet. “It’s a flag to show support for law enforcement – no politics involved.”

2020 – While those behind the thin blue line flag have worked hard to keep it separate from political movements, the symbol came under attack once again in 2020 following the death of George Floyd.

While many police officers and supporters donned the thin blue line as a way to show support for law enforcement personnel who were facing threats and criticism at the time, some police departments chose to distance themselves from the icon.

In May 2020, San Francisco police Chief Bill Scott ordered his officers to cease wearing the blue line after some of them responded to a protest wearing face masks displaying the symbol, saying he didn’t want them to come across as “divisive or disrespectful,” according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

The move prompted backlash from many police supporters, including Tony Montoya, the president of the San Francisco Police Officers Association, who stated he saw the move as “giving in to hatred toward police.”

Despite incidents like these, the thin blue line only continued to grow in popularity throughout the COVID-19 pandemic – an era in which many in the community wanted to honor first responders like law enforcement officers for the work they did to keep our communities safe in an unprecedented time.

Today – While today, some have chosen to move away from the blue line in an attempt to mend police relations and avoid further division, many have chosen to hold on to what the thin blue line has always represented – honor and respect for the officers who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.

“While there has been historic misuse or misrepresentation of the thin blue line flag for alternative purposes, its intended purpose is very simple: solidarity and respect for police officers,” according to C.O.P.S. Arizona. “It is displayed to share encouragement and gratitude for the men and women who dedicate their lives to keeping the public safe. It is also displayed to honor the lives lost in the line of duty.”

Variations of the Thin Blue Line

The thin blue line has taken many forms over the decades, especially in recent years.

What started as a phrase utilized in various stories, poems, books, and movies was eventually made into an image that has been stamped on everything from police cars to face masks.

When the thin blue line flag was created in 2014, it was a simple black background with a bright blue line running horizontally across the center. Over time, a blue line was added to a black-and-white version of the American flag, and it has continued to evolve from there.

Today, the blue line symbol is widespread on social media, where it is remixed and used to overlay Facebook profile pictures to show support for law enforcement. You can pretty much find the blue line on anything: thin blue line shirts, hats, jewelry, bumper stickers, posters, art … the list is endless.

When the blue lives matter movement first kicked off, so did an image of “The Punisher” with the blue line incorporated into it. Because The Punisher is a vigilante Marvel comic character created in 1974 who took justice into his own hands by violent means, the use of the thin blue line in relation to the character’s logo has faced some criticism. The image is still commonly seen today, however, and can be found in many forms.

No matter how you choose to display the thin blue line, its meaning remains the same – support for police, their families, and the protection and peace they fight for.

How to Show Police Support

If you’d like to “back the blue” and show your support for law enforcement, there are plenty of ways to do so.

First and foremost, don’t commit crime – or at least be respectful to your arresting officer!

All jokes aside, the best way to say thank you to your local police is to literally do just that. Consider attending a police event like a fundraiser or other function to show support and thank those in attendance for their service.

Another way to show support for law enforcement is to show appreciation to the police in your life and community. Odds are that you have a friend or family member who either serves as an officer or knows one. In 2021, there were over 680,000 full-time law enforcement officers in the U.S. – a ratio of about 2.4 officers per 1,000 civilians – according to the FBI.

Another excellent way to show appreciation to the police is to proudly wear and display the thin blue line. Whether that’s a flag, a hat, or a coffee mug, displaying the blue line shows those around you that you support our law enforcement personnel. If you’re looking for a cool police support T-shirt to wear, check out the Vedder Holsters Thin Blue Line Shirt.

Finally, you can donate to a police cause. You can make a donation to your local police department, or you can donate to a law enforcement charity of your choice. (We recommend vetting charities through Charity Navigator or another trusted source before making a donation!)

Summary

The blue line has become an important icon among law enforcement personnel and their supporters. Representing the men and women who bravely stand between peace and social anarchy every day when they don their uniforms, the thin blue line has served as a symbol of courage and sacrifice since its origination.

Now that you understand the history and significance of what the thin blue line represents, you can proudly fly a flag, wear a thin blue line shirt, or show support for law enforcement in your own way. (Perhaps by sharing this article with someone who might be interested in learning the facts about the blue line and its symbolism!)

If you’re looking for belts or holsters, we recommend visiting our Holsters by Gun Model page if you are looking for holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice. For all of our belt and holster options and for more information to help you choose the carry system that works best for you, visit our Vedder Holsters website.

Looking for items beyond holsters and belts, check out our Resources Page for popular product links like lights, lasers, first aid, maintenance, and more.

To stay up-to-date on all the latest Vedder Holsters content and offerings, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And be sure to check out our sister company, GeoGrit, for all of your American-made minimalist wallet needs.

Check out the original post at VedderHolsters.com.

You’re winding down after a night out when you realize your wallet is not in your pocket where it should be. After making a few calls and frantically searching your jacket, car, and driveway, the realization that your wallet is really missing sinks in. Now what? 

If that scenario sounds familiar, then you know all too well how scary it can be to lose your wallet and all the important personal and financial information it holds. When your credit cards and ID find their way into the wrong hands, the consequences can be devastating. 

If you’re wondering what to do if you lose your wallet, then you’ve come to the right place. There are six steps you should take after you’ve lost your wallet to protect yourself from fraud and identity theft. 

Don’t wait: if you’ve exhausted your search and still can’t find your wallet, time is of the essence. Keep scrolling to learn what to do when you lose your wallet. 

Contact Your Bank and Credit Card Companies

The very first thing you should do after you have lost your wallet and know it likely won’t be found is call your bank and credit card companies. The last thing you want is for someone to begin making unauthorized purchases with your card information. 

Start by calling your bank to let them know that your card was lost or stolen so they can cancel it and issue a replacement. You’ll want to start with your debit cards because your level of responsibility for unauthorized charges depends on how quickly you inform your bank. They will likely review recent transactions with you to confirm any fraudulent purchases.

Next, call your credit card companies. You won’t be held responsible for any fraudulent purchases made on a credit card, but it’s important to get your card canceled and get a replacement issued as soon as possible. 

Some banks and credit card companies allow you to freeze or report a stolen card through their website or mobile app. If your wallet is lost after business hours – or you’ve been on hold for wayyyyy too long – this is a great way to start managing the situation until you can speak to the company directly. 

Set Up a Fraud Alert

Once your information has been stolen, someone could try to open new financial accounts in your name. To help keep this from happening, contact one of the three national credit bureaus — Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion – and ask them to set up a fraud alert on your credit report.

The alert will remain in place at no charge for 90 days. This added protection will require creditors and lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening a new account. You only need to contact one of the three bureaus, and they will contact the other two on your behalf.

If you want a little extra protection, you can also set up a credit freeze on your credit report with each of the three credit bureaus. These security freezes will prevent creditors from accessing your credit file, so nobody can open an account in your name. 

A credit freeze will remain in place until you lift it, and can easily be set up online through each of the national credit bureaus’ websites. Keep in mind that you will have to lift the freeze if you ever need to open a new financial account so that creditors can access your credit report. 

You can always check your credit report as an additional measure to ensure no new accounts are opened that you didn’t authorize. Here are the phone numbers and websites for the three national credit bureaus:

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285

Experian: 1-888-397-3742

TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289

File a Police Report

Whether you believe your lost wallet was stolen or not, it’s a good idea to go ahead and file a police report so that you have a paper trail in case you become the victim of fraud.

When reporting fraudulent activity or identity theft, or when you try to get a new driver’s license or social security card, you may be required to share a police report as evidence, which is why filing a police report is actually a key part of protecting your identity.

If you had a copy of your house key in your wallet, don’t forget to inform the police of that and change your locks as well. After all, a potential criminal will know where you live if they have your ID. 

To file a police report, simply go down to your local police department or give them a call on their non-emergency line.  

Get a New Driver’s License

If you’ve lost your wallet, it’s a pretty safe bet that your driver’s license went with it. If that’s the case, you’re definitely going to need a replacement. 

Not only is it illegal to drive without a license, but a potential criminal can use the personal details on your ID to wreak all kinds of havoc. That being said, it’s important to contact your local DMV to report your license is missing or stolen. 

While you’re at it, find out which documents you will need in order to get a new license, then go to the DMV to file for a replacement. You may be required to provide your social security number and birth certificate, among other things.

Depending on your state, you could be charged a small fee for issuing a replacement. If you can provide proof that it was stolen through a police report, some states may waive the fee.

Contact Your Insurance Companies

If you keep your medical insurance cards in your wallet, as many people do, then when you lose your wallet you’ll likely lose those with it. Make sure to report any lost insurance cards to the issuer, whether medical or auto.

If you are worried about someone fraudulently using your benefits, check your explanation of benefits statement to ensure nobody has used your insurance card. 

When you contact your insurance companies, they should be able to issue a new card, and they may or may not provide you with a new number as well.

Consider What Else Was in Your Wallet

We’ve covered the basics, but before you breathe a sigh of relief, think about anything else that was in your wallet that could pose a problem if it falls into the wrong hands. 

Pull out your notepad and make a list of everything else that was in your wallet. Did you have any passwords or account numbers saved in there? Perhaps a gym membership card?

While not all of these are urgent, making a list can help you prioritize what needs to be addressed first, like changing your passwords or account numbers. Whereas other things like membership or loyalty cards can be replaced at your leisure.

Wallet Security Tips

Now that you know what to do if you lost your wallet, let’s go over some tips to avoid the situation in the first place. 

First and foremost, make sure you don’t keep any sensitive items like your social security card, passwords, or your house key in your wallet. That way, if your wallet is lost or stolen, you don’t have to worry about someone getting their hands on all your personal information. 

Next, using a Bluetooth tracker like these from Tile is a great way to keep tabs on your wallet. These thin, card-sized trackers can be easily slipped into your wallet to help you determine whether your wallet has been stolen, or if it just fell between the seats of your car. 

Additionally, using a secure wallet is a great way to help keep your information safe and even prevent loss or theft in the first place

A slim wallet like the GeoGrit Wallet can provide RFID theft protection, and its slim design keeps your cards secure, preventing any from falling out and becoming loose in your pocket. These minimalist wallets are also designed to be carried in your front pocket, which greatly reduces your chances of becoming the victim of a pickpocket. 

So if you don’t already have a GeoGrit Wallet, what are you waiting for?

Summary

If you’ve ever lost a wallet, you know how scary it can be knowing your personal and financial information could be in the wrong hands. 

We’ve gone over six steps that outline what to do if you lose your wallet so that if you find yourself in this situation, you can quickly work to secure your information and prevent fraud and identity theft. 

The first thing you’ll want to do is report your lost cards to your bank and credit card companies. Once that’s done, you should set up a fraud alert through one of the three national credit bureaus to ensure nobody can open a new account in your name. Obtaining a new driver’s license, contacting your insurance companies, and filing a police report should also be on your to-do list. 

Carrying a secure, minimalist wallet that’s designed to prevent RFID theft and pickpocketing is a great way to help prevent loss or theft in the first place. If you’re interested in carrying a minimalist wallet that’s made in the USA, check out our entire collection at GeoGrit.com. To learn more about why we do what we do, read our story here.

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In a world that’s growing increasingly digital, the idea of carrying only what you need is an appealing option. And the best way to start carrying less is to swap your overstuffed leather billfold for a minimalist wallet. 

Not only is carrying a slim wallet safer, more efficient, and more comfortable than traditional wallets, but it’s also better for your health, saves money, and makes you less of a target for pickpocketers. 

While there are probably dozens of reasons to slim your wallet, we’ll cover our top six here. 

1. They’re Lightweight and Easy to Carry

Perhaps the most obvious reason you’d want to switch to a minimalist wallet is that they’re remarkably lightweight and easy to tote around. 

In fact, the GeoGrit Wallet only weighs around 1.6 ounces. That’s barely more than a AA battery, a pen, a quarter of a banana … you get the idea. 

Because slim wallets are SO slim, they can easily be tossed into your pocket or bag without adding much bulk or weight. They’re even small enough to slide into the front pocket of women’s pants (impressive, we know!). 

A smaller wallet also means you have less room for old receipts, loose change, and gift cards with $3 left on them, which makes finding what you need a lot easier. It also means more space in your pocket for other everyday carry items like your phone and keys. 

2. It’s Easier on Your Body

One of the best selling points for making the switch to a minimalist wallet is that it can actually benefit your short- and long-term health. 

If that sounds crazy, buckle up. That stiffness you’re feeling in your back, hips, neck, or even in your shoulders could have something to do with that bulky wallet you carry in your back pocket.

How? Well, when you sit on a lump all day, it displaces your hips ever so slightly. This can cause you to lean or otherwise compensate, which can cause pain throughout your body and can lead to more serious long-term conditions. 

Sitting on a bulky wallet for long periods is known to put pressure on the nerves in your lower back and pelvis. Over time, this can lead to a condition called “sciatica,” which can cause mild to severe pain in your lower back or legs. 

The best way to prevent or reduce pain caused by thick wallets is to switch to one that can be carried in your front pocket, like a slim wallet. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in your overall health. 

3. You’re Less of a Target for Pickpocketers 

Of all the reasons to slim your wallet, this might be the most impactful. 

Nobody wants to fall prey to a pickpocket, and carrying a small wallet can actually reduce your chance of being a victim. 

After all, if a thief can’t see your wallet, you’re not their prime target. Not only that, but slim wallets are designed to be carried in your front pocket, where they’re far less accessible to pickpockets. 

But physical pickpocketing isn’t the only thing you have to worry about. In the digital age, there is always the threat of a criminal accessing your personal information by using an RFID reader to scan the EMV chips embedded in most modern credit cards and even some IDs. 

Most minimalist wallets, like the GeoGrit wallet, are made from RFID-blocking materials that can protect your cards from these types of threats. To read more about RFID blocking and how it affects you, check out our article here. 

4. Less Clutter = Less Stress

You may be surprised to learn that organizing and reducing how much you carry in your wallet can actually help lower your stress levels. 

Yep, you read that right. Studies show that decluttering your life can help reduce stress and anxiety – and your wallet is a great place to start. By carrying a slim wallet instead of a traditional, bulky one, you eliminate the possibility of things like receipts and loose change piling up and getting out of hand. 

And if that isn’t enough to convince you, imagine a world where you never again have to stand in the checkout lane digging through your wallet while everyone around you stares impatiently. Talk about stressful! 

At the end of the day, you’ll probably be surprised by how little you realistically need to carry, anyway. In this day in age, you don’t really need to carry cash, and more and more establishments are offering digital receipts. And if you have a smartphone, there’s no reason to carry photos in your wallet, either. 

Clearing these unnecessary items out of your wallet is a pretty easy thing to do, and if it can help relieve some stress and increase happiness, why not? 

5. It Can Save You Money

What if we told you that slim wallets not only protect your money, but they can save you a few bucks as well? 

That’s right. Not only do minimalist wallets keep your money safe and organized, but investing in one will save you money in the long run. (And who wouldn’t want that?)

Money clip wallets are often made from metals like aluminum, titanium, or carbon fiber, making them far more durable than their polyester or leather counterparts. That means they don’t wear out nearly as fast (if ever), so you don’t have to replace them as often, which saves you money over time. 

It’s also worth noting that carrying a larger wallet can cause wear and tear on your clothes after a while. Bulky wallets rub against the material of your pants all day, which can eventually wear holes in your clothing or cause that unmistakable wallet-shaped fade to appear on your backside. 

So how does this save you money? Well, smaller wallets equal fewer trips to the department store, which means you can spend less money on pants, and more money on whatever you want. 

Another way that a slim wallet can save you money is in health costs. As we mentioned earlier, constantly sitting on a thick wallet can eventually lead to a condition called “sciatica.” By investing in a smaller wallet, you can reduce your risk of developing this painful condition and avoid any associated medical expenses.

As an added bonus, by not sitting on your wallet, you can reduce the wear and tear on the items inside of it as well. Putting too much of a load on your wallet can wear and bend your cards, so carrying light means you don’t have to replace your credit cards as often. This doesn’t exactly save you money, but it definitely saves you a hassle!

6. They’re Practical And Stylish 

Carrying a slim wallet is not only practical, but it has a certain aesthetic appeal as well. 

Think about it. When’s the last time you saw a bulky, overstuffed leather billfold and thought it looked like anything but a “dad wallet?” 

Not only are minimalist wallets nice to look at, but they practically disappear inside your pocket, eliminating the wallet bulge that effectively ruins your otherwise sharp-looking outfit. 

With a slim wallet, you’ll always make a good impression. The last thing you want to do on a first date is whip out an old worn-out billfold that looks like a hand-me-down from your grandpa. 

So, invest in a small wallet with a money clip instead. You’ll thank yourself later. 

Summary

There are plenty of reasons to declutter your life and make the switch to carrying a slim wallet. 

Not only are minimalist wallets lightweight, RFID blocking, and stylish, but carrying one can also save you money, decrease stress, and even reduce back pain. Living a minimalist lifestyle has many benefits, and lightening up your wallet is a great place to start. If you’re interested in carrying a minimalist wallet made in the USA, check out our entire collection at GeoGrit.com. To learn more about why we do what we do, read our story here.

View the original post at GeoGrit.com here.

A fire burning in Cornville near Page Springs Road has consumed around 1,200 acres as of 11 a.m., Monday, June 14, and forced residents to evacuate their homes. The fire was reported around 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 13, and was started just off of Cornville Road. The fire has since burned up to Page Springs Road, Verde Valley Fire District Chief Danny Johnson said.

“It started just off of Cornville Road, and it’s kind of, at this point, moving northeast toward the national forest,” he said.

As of 8 p.m. June 13, the fire had burned approximately 1,000 acres, according to an InciWeb incident information page containing updates about the fire. The blaze is being fueled by wind and dry fuels and is burning grass, brush, piñon and juniper very close to residential areas. 

At least one outbuilding has been reportedly destroyed. While no homes have been lost, all residents to the east of Page Springs Road between Windmill Lane and the Oak Creek Vineyards were told to evacuate, according to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office. As of the morning of June 14, all evacuations for the Page Springs Road Area were lifted. The residents there have been told to stand by and be ready for evacuation. 

The Verde Valley Fire District, Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, and resources from the state and federal level are currently assisting with containing the fire, Johnson said. According to InciWeb, 12 aircraft are assigned to the fire along with engines and a water tender. A hotshot crew has also been asked to assist.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and Johnson said they are unsure of when the fire will be contained.

Many residents in the area could be seen out in their yards dampening their property, loading up animals and belongings, and watching planes dump retardant on the flames near their homes.

Brylee Meier, a resident on Page Springs Road, described seeing the flames from her yard.

“They got it contained right here, and then all of a sudden, this huge flame jumps this way and you could see it coming towards the bushes,” she said. “You could see the flames. I thought our house was going to catch on fire.”

Camp Verde resident Cory Brady was in the area on June 13 when he heard about the fire and decided to check on a few of the people living in the area to see if he could lend a hand. He found a resident on Cornville Road who was on her own and trying to prepare to evacuate and decided to help.

He quickly got to work hosing down the properties of her and her neighbors, who were out of town, and digging a fire line around the perimeter. Brady said his girlfriend and a couple of other people also helped the woman pack things into her car. Luckily, the fire was contained about 50 yards from the house.

“Obviously they’re short-handed and the fires can go everywhere, so if I can help save a couple of houses and people’s lives and their livelihoods then why not, I’m going to jump in and do what I can do,” he said.

An evacuation center has been set up at the Mingus Union High School Gym at 1801 E. Fir Street in Cottonwood.

Stage two fire restrictions are currently in place on state land in Yavapai County.

Be aware of smoke conditions caused by the Cornville Fire. Take precautions if you have any existing respiratory condition that could be worsened by smoke inhalation.

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The first day of Matthew Wangeman’s life was a rough one. With his umbilical cord wrapped around his neck, he could not breathe. Then, he spent six weeks in the hospital, and it was uncertain if he would survive, yet he did.

At 18 months, Wangeman was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (CP), a neurological disorder caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain. CP usually occurs while a child’s brain is developing around the time of birth and can affect the individual’s motor skills, body movement and speaking abilities.

When Wangeman was 2 years old, his father passed away, and his mother was left to care for two children, one with a significant disability. Wangeman was then sent to Anne Carlsen Center, a residential school for children with disabilities. He could have stayed at the institution his entire life, but Wangeman decided he wanted more for himself.

He attended a high school in North Dakota for students with disabilities, where he graduated as valedictorian of a class of six. He always knew he wanted to go to college, so he attended University of California, Berkeley where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in city planning.

Wangeman does not let his disability hold him back. Wangeman has been a professor in disability studies at NAU for nine years. He co-teaches an introduction to disability studies class and two senior capstone classes for the disability studies minor with Katherine Mahosky, NAU professor who co-teaches with Wangeman.

Wangeman loves football and is also a part of the NAU football team. He attends their practices and events and speaks in front of the team every year. Head coach Jerome Souers calls Wangeman an honorary coach.

“I do that because I do love football, but those guys are probably the most scared about disability. So I think with me being around them, they will get less scared about disability,” said Wangeman.

Wangeman is working to change the negative stigma that is often associated toward people with disabilities.

“I don’t think disability is a bad thing, it is just different. And what makes it bad is the attitudes that other people have about disability,” Wangeman said.

Wangeman believes it is society that puts negativity on disabilities.

“Many people ask me if there was a pill to make me not how I am, would I take it? I say no because I like who I am. And if you ask people who know me, I am probably the happiest person they know,” Wangeman said.

Wangeman has a 14-year-old son, Elijah, who he describes as “just brilliant.” Wangeman and his son are in a six-minute documentary, My Dad Matthew, which premieres Thursday, Feb. 23. The short film is about disability advocacy and the relationship that Wangeman and his son share.

“About a year ago, John Schaffer, who I have known for about 10 years, said ‘Matthew, would you like to finally make a movie with me about your life, because he is a filmmaker, and I have been kind of on him to make a movie,” Wangeman said.

Schaffer received a grant to make the film from One-Revolution, an organization that gives grants to people to make short films about disability through their “Upside Down Program.” The idea is to make films to help change the perceptions people have about disability.

“To me, disability is just part of the great diversity in this world,” Wangeman said.

My Dad Matthew will be shown at the NAU Cline Library Assembly Hall from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Admission is free, and Wangeman and his son will lead a discussion afterward. The event will also be streamed live on Facebook through Wild Asparagus Productions.

“My hope for this documentary is that it makes people stop and think about disability,” Wangeman said.

Wangeman has been an advocate for people with disabilities for about 30 years.

“People with disabilities sometimes get down because this society is not very good at including people with disabilities. So people with disabilities have to believe in themselves,” Wangeman said.

Wangeman has staff who assist him with several things. His main staff member and personal assistant is Kelly Hurlbut.

Hurlbut helps Wangeman get around in his wheelchair and re-voices for him. Re-voicing is the process of reading aloud the things Wangeman says. Wangeman communicates by using a printed keyboard that also includes commonly used words. He wears a helmet with a pointer attached to it, spells out things that he wants to say, and Hurlbut says them aloud.

Hurlbut has worked with Wangeman for about four years, but they’ve known each other for nearly 10 years.

“I was his staff a long time ago, and I knew his kid when he was super little. And he was still a little smarty pants way back then. Great kid, though. I went on a couple trips with him when I started, and well, we got along,” said Hurlbut.

The two of them go on trips a couple of times each year where Wangeman speaks at conferences.

“Hopefully, because of his mini-documentary coming out, he might get more speaking opportunities, and I know he would very much like to do that,” Hurlbut said.

Mahosky has a degree in speech pathology and a doctorate in education curriculum and correction and helps Wangeman teach.

“I may lead off on a lecture — we just really have this nice kind of flow. If he adds in, I kind of look over when I know he wants to talk about something in particular, but we’re also plan-full. I may say to him, ‘Next week, I really need you to talk about, you know, living in institutions,’” said Mahosky.

Working as a team has been very beneficial to both Wangeman and Mahosky, as well as the students taking their classes, she said.

“We have different perspectives. In a way, my training was certainly as a speech pathologist. Learning about what his preferred choices are, that’s a perspective we don’t always get in our training. I often tell the students that I’ve really had sort of an awakening or such about how I might think about communication disorders and working with individuals. So I think that’s been advantageous for both of us to have. I don’t have a disability. I can’t really voice that experience, and I think that’s extremely valuable in this class. It keeps us authentic,” Mahosky said.

Hurlbut has also noticed having Wangeman in the classroom has changed students’ perspectives.

“I know at one time they did a filming when Matthew was doing his one-on-one. They quoted it, and the ones who continued in the minor, they asked him at the very end some other questions, and it was incredible the difference just in their perspectives and attitudes about disability,” Hurlbut said.

Disability is still very much unknown, and Wangeman intends to change that. Whether it’s through teaching, speaking at conferences or making short films, Wangeman continues to change the perspectives people have about disability.

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