Preventing an Attack
By Marlene Gundlach | July 16, 2008
In a perfect world, you would never have to learn self defense. Preventing an attack is always preferred to having to defend yourself from one.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When you are out, constantly be aware of your surroundings. Look out for individuals who may be following you, groups of people who are drunk, or simply causing trouble. Continually watch for safe zones where you may be able to go for help should you confront trouble. Be certain to follow your instincts. If you feel unsafe in a particular neighborhood or situation, get out as soon as possible.
Be Confident
Walking with confidence is a key part of staying safe. Attackers are looking for an easy victim; they don’t want a battle. They look for someone who looks unprepared or unaware. Walk with a steady stride and keep your head up. This is good for two reasons: you will appear to be paying attention and this will make you look less like a victim. Plus, you will be more aware of what is around you if you walk with your head up. This means no digging in your purse as you walk or talking unnecessarily on your cell phone. Both will distract you enough that you will be more likely to encounter an attacker.
Another important tip: it is okay to be a little rude when the situation warrants it. For example, if someone approaches you and asks you if you need help carrying bags to your car, respectfully decline. Do not waiver. This could just be a tactic to get close to you and gain access to your car. No matter how much the individual insists, decline the invitation. Don’t feel guilty that you are turning the offer down. Your safety is more important than a bruised ego. Criminals love polite people.
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Make a Plan
Have a plan in place in case your home is broken into at night. Always keep your phone nearby and think about what you would do should you hear breaking glass or your front door breaking down. Ask yourself the following questions: Where would be the safest place for you to hide while you call for help? Is there a quick way to exit the house without being noticed?
Next, plan what you would do should someone stop your car and demand to get in. Would you drive away? Make sure your doors are always locked for this particular situation. Many late-model cars automatically lock once you start driving and reach a certain speed. This is a great safety feature, especially with kids in the car.
Don’t fool yourself into thinking a bad situation can’t happen to you. Anyone can be a victim, and it can happen at any time. Take the time to plan ahead — it can make all the difference.
Know Thy Enemy
If you know why many criminals act, that still won’t guarantee you will not be attacked; however, it does provide insight as to their motivation.
What do you think the main motivation is for most criminals? Most people think it is money. And, that is usually a major factor. However, the reasons criminals need money may differ. It can range from being unemployed and not having any marketable skills, to having a drug habit to support. Some individuals break the law for gang acceptance or a group of friends who are looking for trouble. Others may do it simply for the adrenaline rush they get from breaking into someone’s home.
No matter what the motivation, remember that the individual is driven by something and they will not be happy if you get in the way. Don’t trust basic stereotypes when it comes to profiling criminals on the street. Not every criminal looks like they do on your favorite police drama. This is why you need to educate yourself on the prevention tips above and learn some basic self defense moves.
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