I took a self-defense class over the weekend. It was a great reminder of things to look out for or things to do. So, I thought I’d share some of their tips. And, these things are good for women, men, and children.

Here the instructors are demonstrating the heel of the hand to the attacker’s nose, eyes, or forehead
- Avoid conflict. Just because someone cut you off in traffic doesn’t mean that you have to get road rage. Don’t risk a confrontation. Instead, just don’t react.
- Be conscious of your environment. Be mindful of who’s hanging around and what’s going on. Don’t just walk looking at youripod with your headphones on.
- Park in well lit areas.
- Don’t walk alone- go with a pal.
- If there’s someone creepy, turn around and go back into the store. Get a security guard to walk you out. Call the police.
- Trust your instincts.
- If you’re alone, pick up you cell phone and call someone. Call a friend. Call the police if you feel threatened. Criminals are less likely to attack if someone else knows what’s going on.
- Watch your body language. Make eye contact. Walk with your head up, and walk purposefully. Don’t look like a victim. Walk with confidence.
- If someone tells you to give them your wallet or purse. Give it to them. But, throw it off to the side and run away as fast as you can.
- Stay calm. Practice what you would do if you are in a bad situation.

If he grabs you from behind, you might be able to squat down, throw your arms up, and get out of the hold. Run like mad at that point.
- Yell. Make as much noise as possible. Get someone else’s attention for help.
Here are some more of the moves that can help you get out of a situation…
Dave Wayland says
Excellent statements.
There is a book written by an ex-FBI profiler called The Gift of Fear:
http://www.amazon.com/Other-Survival-Signals-Protect-Violence/dp/0440508835/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1289255383&sr=8-1
This book deals with potentially scary situations and how best to deal with them.
admin says
Interesting! I’ll have to look into that. Thanks, Dave!