The Salvation Army

Donate pants to The Salvation Army, get 50 percent discount at law enforcement clothing company – “Streicher’s Days” event to be held Aug. 7 – 8 in Plymouth, MN.

PLYMOUTH, Minn. – Streicher’s Inc., a uniform and equipment retailer for military, government and public safety personnel, is partnering with The Salvation Army and the clothing company 5.11 Tactical for a two-day sales event to benefit the community and acknowledge public safety professionals.

“Streicher’s Days” will be held from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Aug. 7 and 8 at the Streicher’s retail store, located in Plymouth at the intersection of Highway 55 and County Road 73 (Hopkins Crossroad).

The deal is simple: Bring in new or gently used pants and receive 50 percent off an equal number of any new 5.11 Tactical-brand pants, slacks or shorts. (Retail value $34.99 – $39.99.)

All pant donations will go to The Salvation Army, which will sell them at its seven Twin Cities metro area thrift stores. All thrift store sales benefit The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center in Minneapolis, which provides free, long-term care to hundreds of men.

“ARC officials, as well as the men we serve, are extremely thankful for the generosity of Streicher’s,” said Bill Price, ARC administrator. “Their efforts will help us change lives.” Chad Morrow, Streicher’s Vice President of Marketing, said the event is a win-win for everyone involved.

“We wanted to work with the Twin Cities’ preeminent non-profit organization,” Morrow said. “The Salvation Army has a long history of partnering with local law enforcement and Minnesota-based corporations.”

Not just a cheesy ’80’s tune. In the last few years advancements in light technology have led to smaller, brighter and more efficient lights. These advancements have greatly increased our options for an every day carry light at a reasonable cost, but it has also muddled the decision. In our fathers time , one light for any situation might have been enough, but in today’s world of got-to-have-it gadgets that’s just not the case. There are just too many choices. LED or Halogen? What’s HID? Rechargeable, or battery? Output, lumens, candlepower, run time, volts, watts, weight, tail-cap selection, multiple switches, programmable output, intensity selection, colored and IR filters…

I’ve just gone cross-eyed.

If you are confused already, that’s OK. If you think you know more than me, that’s probably true (you can comment on this like everybody else). If you don’t care what I have to say that’s cool too. Go to your local mega-mart, pay $7 (marked down from $10) on a 2 C-cell light and toss it in a junk drawer for the next time you need it. Just do one thing first. Bookmark this page, because in 3 months when the power goes out and you grab a light that doesn’t work, you’ll want to come back and finish reading.

In the next few posts we’ll try to cover some of the things you’ll want to consider if you want a little better option. Hopefully we can answer a few questions and clear up a couple of points. There may not be an obvious “buy this” answer, but when we are done, there will a light at the end of the tunnel. (See how I did that, a light at the end of the tunnel. I’m creative).

The first thing to consider is overall construction and quality. Poor quality lights will have some glaring problems. The exterior housing should be strong enough to take a drop without breaking. Avoid plastic, but a strong polymer or most metals are good. Turn on the light and shake it. Does it rattle or does the light flicker because the batteries aren’t held well? Good lights will have a housing designed to hold the batteries firmly in place. Look at the switch. If the light has a rotating bezel switch or a click switch there should be a rubber seal or gasket. If it’s not there your light may fail if it ever gets wet, even it only a little. Some lights can be opened at the tail cap and the lens. Anywhere the light opens should have smooth threads and fit tightly. Look at the front. The lens should be clear of scratches and have a snug fit. Overall, if the light feels poorly made, it probably is

Good lights aren’t cheap. CHEAP lights are cheap, and like in many other things you tend to get what you pay for. That being said, you can get a good light for around $40 and not be disappointed. Yes, you can spend a lot more, and if you want more functionality, you’ll pay for it, but these three lights are elite started lights that won’t break the bank.

Surefire G2 ($35.99)-

Surefire G2

One of the most reliable flashlights you’ll find. It housing is an extremely strong Nitrolon polymer and an impact proof lens. It operates with a tail cap switch that has a lockout feature to avoid accidentally turning it on. The Surefire G2 used 2 3-volt lithium batteries for 1 hour of 65 lumen output. At 5″ long, it fits well in the palm of your hand. for $35.99 this light uses an incandescent bulb. If you want an LED the price goes up to about $65.

Streamlight Scorpion ($39.99)

Streamlight Scorpion

- The Scorpion features a machined aluminum housing covered by a rubber armor sleeve for a sure grip and an unbreakable polycarbonate lens. Like the Surefire G2, it has a tail cap switch, uses 2 3-volt batteries and has an approximate 1 hour run time. The output Measures 65,000 candle power and the front bezel can be adjusted to focus the beam into a small spotlight or expand the output into a flood light. It comes with a replacement bulb or for $10 more you can get the Streamlight scorpion with an LED.

The Pelican M6 ($41.99)

Pelican M6

- Similar to the others, this light has a tail cap switch, fits well in the palm of your hand, has an approximate run time of 1 hour on 2 3-volt batteries. The output is closer to 74 lumens, and this light comes with a cordura belt holster. If you want the LED version, the price goes up to around $80.

Next post: Light emitters.

The longest day of summer has come and gone, but the sweltering heat of July and August are quickly approaching. With this, more and more people will be leaving the air conditioned comfort of homes for the warm breeze of parks, beaches, and the backyard.

Whether your plans in the coming weeks are simple day activities with friends and family or a 10-day trek through the desert heat of the Grand Canyon- STAY HYDRATED! Here 5 important tips to stay hydrated that all of us know, but many of us tend to overlook.

1. Drink Water- I know it’s the obvious one, but we’ll get it out of the way here. Depending on environment and exercise levels, the body may sweat out 1-2 liters of water an hour. Too many people will drink beverages like soda, tea, coffee, and lemonade when thirsty. While these may not dehydrate the body, they also may contain large amounts refined sugar, sodium, and caffeine; so drink water.

2. Drink water early- I am not suggesting you skip the coffee entirely, but if you know you’ll have an active day, start the morning out with water as well. Drink water before your outdoor activities, every 15-20 minutes during especially stressful activities, and after while you cool down.

3. Drink water with electrolytes- Without pointing fingers or naming names, some sport drinks are better than others. Choose one that can hydrate you without relying on caffeine to give you an energy boost. Also remember that these drinks replace what the body loses through activity, so they are best drank during and after activity.

4. Beer is not water- Yes it’s refreshing on a hot summer day, but alcohol dehydrates the body. Just something to consider. In the hottest hours of the day, or during more strenuous activity, chase your alcohol with water.

5. Eat your water- Fruit not only contain large amounts of water, but also provide natural sugars and carbohydrates that help you keep hydrated. It’s common for people to misinterpret their own bodies thirst as hunger, so eat foods that help to meet both these needs.

For individuals that will be straying farther than their own backyard, here are a few tools that may help you on your way.

CamelBak Water Bottle- Put away the Nalgene bottle. These Camelbak bottles are leak/spill proof, shatter proof, and use a patented bite-valve, so you don’t need to unscrew the top just to take a drink

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Hydration Packs and carriers- There are a number of options to choose from, but here are a few of my favorites:
CamelBak ThermoBak 2 Liter- The ThermoBak® 2L is durable, comfortable and proven to be a valuable tool. It features a Sternum Strap™ for added stability, convenient Velcro® strap management, closed cell insulation and neoprene tube cover keeps water cool or warm for hours. it also has an exterior fillport with ergonomic handle for filling on the go.

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BlackHawk Baracuda- This hydration carrier adds a minimal amount of storage to it’s 100oz. reservoir. it has a comfortable, fully adjustable quick-ditch harness and molded back panel for superior for comfort, stability, and airflow. Like all BlackHawk hydration Packs, the drink system is protected by Microban® antimicrobial treatment.

CamelBak Motherlode and BlackHawk Tsunami- There are a lot of Hydration packs available from both BlackHawk and CamelBak, but these are two of the best. Both are very well constructed, provide significant carry capacity, a larger hydration reservoir (100oz/3 liters), and have molle compatible webbing for added carry needs.

Other Tools- If you are going to be out for more than a day or two, consider a few more tools. Depending on the pack you choose, each manufacturer offers extra reservoirs, cleaning kits, emergency repair kits and inline filters.

Spend enough time of duty and any officer will be placed in a situation where his or her words or actions will be questioned. In the courtroom, with the burden of proof placed solely on the prosecution, an officer can’t afford to have their word doubted.

The VIEVU Personal Recorder is designed specifically to document any situation from the officer’s perspective. The VIEVU PVR-LE is a WEARABLE video recording device designed specifically for use by law enforcement. It attaches with to the officer using VIEVU’s own tri-clip design. It captures vital information to assist the officer in their reporting and later in the courtroom.

Traditional in-car systems only capture what happens near the patrol car. Law enforcement officers know that most police work occurs away from their car, inside businesses, homes, schools, etc. The VIEVU PVR LE allows officers to capture video evidence of all their police activities.

Video files are easily transfered to any PC via proprietary software by connecting the device to a computer. Once downloaded the files can be viewed for reporting. The software prevents tampering with any video file and provides a chain of evidence log.

The size of a pager, the new VIEVU LE-PVR gives individual Officer’s the ability to record audio and color video on demand, via his or her point of view. Exceeding IACP standards, this device offers a 71 degree field of view, and a tamper-proof case, protecting your chain of evidence. If a picture is worth a 1000 words, this video will add credibility and security to any testimony or written report. No installation required, simply clip onto your uniform and go! Product details:

• Quality VGA 640×480 video
• Weight – approx: 3.5oz | Dimensions -approx: 3′ x 2′ x .75′
• Tri-Clip Design – enables attachment virtually anywhere on body
• Full color video & crystal clear audio
• Rugged, rubberized case for durability
• Waterproof for use in inclement weather * IPX5 standard
• Over 4 hours of recording time
• Date and time stamp on video – GMT
• Low memory LED indicator
• Low battery LED indicator
• Secure software
• Green Design – meets RoHS, WEEE standards
• ON/OFF switch provides lens protection
• Download to PC via USB cable
• Requirements – Microsoft Windows 2000, XP, Vista
• For professional law enforcement users – meets IACP standards – Does not interfere with other electronic equipment – Does not hinder access to other tools carried by officers – 71 degree field of view – Temperproof case – Visible display indicating a recording device is in use

Streicher’s. , a leading public safety and police equipment distributor, today announced it has completed the acquisition of Arrington Police Distributors, Inc., a well known and respected law enforcement supply company serving the mid-Atlantic region. Streicher’s will wholly own Arrington’s.

Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN and founded in 1953, Streicher’s provides exceptional products and world-class customer service to the public safety industry. In addition to the newly acquired Arrington’s store locations in Greensboro and Charlotte, NC, Streicher’s operates retail locations in Minneapolis, MN and Milwaukee, WI. These retail operations are supported by full, direct market product catalog business, e-commerce websites, and a full complement of nationwide outside sales representatives.

Jeremy Jenniges, President of Streicher’s, commented, “We are extremely excited about the completion of this acquisition. In looking to expand our operations, it was important that any possible acquisition would be one of a business that was highly respected by its customers, vendors, and communities, and Arrington’s is one of those businesses. This acquisition will allow us to provide even greater service levels to our customers nationwide. We’re delighted to welcome their outstanding management team and dedicated employees into the Streicher’s family.”

Norma Arrington, President of Arrington Police Distributors, commented, “We are thrilled to be a part of Streicher’s. From our customers’ point of view, the advantages of the acquisition will be clear and immediate. Better service, competitive prices, faster order fulfillment, and instant access to the information our customers need are just a few of those advantages.”

Streicher’s day to day operations in North Carolina will continue to be overseen by Norma Arrington. Regular customers can expect to see many of the familiar faces from Arrington Police Distributors.

About Streicher’s, Inc.
Founded in Milwaukee in 1953 as Don Streicher’s Guns, Streicher’s headquarters was moved to Minneapolis in 1983. Streicher’s supplies equipment and uniforms to government agencies, public safety agencies, military, law enforcement departments, and individual officers.