Security for people on the go

By Anne Jambora
Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines–Leave your bag unattended in the airport departure lounge, freshen up in the powder room and return to find everything exactly where and how you left them.

In an ideal world maybe, and in countries where theft means the loss of one or more fingers.

But for those of us who live in less than ideal circumstances, the global brand Pacsafe may be the next best thing.

The company is recognized by seasoned adventure travelers as the makers of “security-on-the-go” products, creating a more secure environment for their belongings where ever they may be.

“The last thing you need to worry about when you travel is security of your possessions, whether you are at the airport, in a hotel, train or restaurant. What we offer is peace of mind so you can relax and enjoy your vacation, or relax and get down to business,” said Dustin Go Lim, general manager of the United Limsun International Trading Corp., local distributor of Pacsafe.

The concept of security-on-the-go was started in 1998 by Australians who loved to travel. From a wire mesh device for locking and securing backpacks, Pacsafe today has a product lineup that includes shoulder and messenger bags, backpacks and laptop bags as well as security devices like TSA-ready (Transportation Security Administration) padlocks, metal cables, wallets and more.

Since security is what the company is all about, Pacsafe anti-theft products feature patented security systems like the eXomesh. They are slash-proof, snatch-proof and tamperproof.

The technologically advanced version of the original wire mesh, eXomesh is a flexible, high-tensile stainless-steel mesh, cable and crimps woven together to create a slash-proof core.

Although the mesh is lightweight, it has a mean cable strength of about 198 kg, enough to thwart the most experienced snatcher. All securing cables are made of heavy-duty steel wire.

“A very determined thief will ultimately get what they want—in due time. What the security features of Pacsafe do is to stall the pickpockets. No mugger in his/her right mind would waste several minutes figuring out how to break open or slash your bag,” said sales manager Irish H. Sun.

Felons take advantage of that split-second of distraction, like when you glance at your watch or are looking in the opposite direction. Snatchers, after all, are opportunists, constantly on the lookout for a moment of weakness.

The eXomesh acts as slash guards. Discreetly placed between two layers of ballistic nylon fabrics on belts, straps and vulnerable sections of the bag such as the lower section (contents can drop out without the victim knowing), it protects the bag from knives and blades.

EXomesh can also act as a steel cage when wrapped over your things.

But you do not need to travel long distances to find use for Pacsafe products. You may find it handy as you doze off during commute after a busy day at work or as you eat alone in a restaurant.

Pacsafe’s snatch-proof anchor clips and locks make life a little easier for you. Metal clips on slash-proof belts and straps can be unfastened at one end to loop and anchor bags to a secure fixture, like the arm of your chair.

Additional features on some products, such as the snatch-proof locking system, allow you to loop, anchor and lock your bag safely in place—the ultimate lock-and-leave system.

For instance, when on the beach and everybody decides to go for a swim, you can safely leave your things behind. Just gather all personal effects in Pacsafe’s TravelSafe 100, looping the retractable steel cable around a tree trunk or branch, then locking it.

The eXomesh locking system features a steel reinforced bullet-proof polycarbonate lock links, high-tensile stainless-steel draw wire, lockable belts and zippers. Though snatchers might not actually fire at your bags, Pacsafe is consistently looking for newer, durable and high-technology innovations, Lim said.

Tamperproof zippers that lock closed or latch to metal clips are ideal for prime pickpocket locations like overcrowded malls. The flap-covered tamperproof compartments have hidden safety hooks.

Pacsafe is available at Rustan’s, PowerMac, Bratpack and Travel Club branches.

E-mail the author at ajambora@inquirer.com.ph

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