It is a sad reality that many people are attacked every day. The truth is, it’s not always easy to protect yourself from being attacked if you don’t know what you’re doing. There are many ways to protect yourself from an attack and this article will go through 10 of them!
As of 2021, in the United States alone, there were 6,336,540 victims of crime. (source Statista)
To protect yourself from being attacked avoid areas that seem dangerous, be alert of everyone around you, always carry a self defense tool even if you’re not alone and use a wearable panic button and/or install an emergency app on your phone.
It’s anyone’s worst nightmare – being attacked when out on the street or even in the safety of our own homes. We try to take preventive measures to protect ourselves but are they enough? Is there something else we can do to make ourselves less vulnerable targets?
The good news is that, as women living alone, there is a lot we can do to increase our personal safety and reduce the chances of falling victim to a personal attack.
What Is The Best Way To Defend Yourself?
Of course, the answer to this question depends largely on what the person can or cannot do. After all, no sense in saying that a self-defense class would be the best way if the person does not have the agility or strength to perform the moves.
So, my point is that the answer is very individualized to each person.
But, having said that, there are some general methods that are recommended to everyone for them to defend themselves.
- The #1 rule of self defense is to be knowledgeable and prepared. Knowing how to recognize potential danger, being aware of your surroundings, and having an emergency plan are all great ways to increase your safety.
- Taking a self-defense class can also help you learn techniques for defending yourself against attackers.
- If possible, carrying a weapon or pepper spray can provide an added layer of protection.
No matter how prepared you are, it’s important to always stay calm and think clearly in emergency situations. It’s also important to remember that self-defense isn’t about attacking or hurting your attacker.
The goal is most always to escape and get away to safety as quickly as possible. If you find yourself in a situation where self-defense is necessary, do whatever you can to create distance between you and the attacker while looking for opportunities to escape.
Above all else, trust your instincts. The best way to defend yourself is to understand scenarios that could put you in danger and then be prepared for them. That means being aware of your surroundings, staying alert and never underestimating a threat.
6 Ways To Protect Yourself From Being Attacked
1. First Step – Avoid Areas That Seem Dangerous
Most everyone should know that a dark alley is probably not a safe place to walk through even if you’re with someone else. But there are other places that create dangerous situations as well:
- Parking lots with little lighting
- Underground parking lots even if there is lighting
- Neighborhoods with high crime statistics
- Wooded areas at night time
- Alleyways especially if they are dark
If you must go through any of these types of areas, your best defense against physical attacks is to carry a self defense weapon of some type. And of course – you should always be wearing a panic button type of wearable and have an emergency app on your phone ready to use.
2. The Next Step Is To Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
You’ve probably heard the phrase “situational awareness” before. It means to be aware of your surroundings but I would also add to be aware of the people in your surroundings as well.
This means knowing what is around you and who is around you and what the potential is for violent crime.
Here’s a scene from The Bourne Identity movie where Jason Bourne is very well aware of his surroundings.
Obviously not everyone is going to have those amazing skills but you get the point. At least try to be more aware of your surroundings than most of us already are.
3. Be Prepared To Run At A Moment’s Notice
Always try to have an escape plan in mind so you can run away if you sense that something is amiss or if someone tries to attack you from a distance. Hopefully, you won’t be wearing high heels at the time and you will be able to run fast without falling.
Personally, it has been a really long time since I’ve had to run anywhere. So, as I was writing this article I decided to go outside and run from one end of my block to the other.
Gotta tell you – I’m out of shape! So, maybe it would be a good idea to practice running every now.
4. Wearable Panic Buttons and Phone Apps
I would say that most people, especially women should invest in a wearable panic button like the Invisawear Smart Jewelry personal safety device and also have an emergency app on their cell phone like Help Me S.O.S.
5. Carry A Self Defense Tool
I would recommend to try to always carry some type of self defense tool such as pepper spray or a key chain weapon. If you are not carrying something, try to use a nearby object as a weapon.
If you’ve been aware of your surroundings you may already know of something nearby that you can use.
6. Learn Self-Defense Skills
Learning basic self-defense techniques to protect yourself does take time and may result in a few bruises here and there but it may be worth it – as long as you are physically capable of doing it.
So let’s talk about the types of victims most chosen for common attacks like robberies, as well as how you can avoid becoming the next target.
Different Types of Self Defense Tools and Their Effectiveness
Carrying a self defense tool can provide an added layer of protection. Some popular self defense tools include pepper spray, stun guns, and personal alarms.
It’s important to know how to properly use these tools and understand their limitations.
Techniques For Escaping From Physical Restraints
Being physically restrained, whether by handcuffs, zip ties, ropes, or other means, can be a terrifying experience.
However, there are techniques that can be used to escape from these restraints if you find yourself in this situation.
It’s important to note that attempting to escape from physical restraints can be dangerous, and you should only attempt to do so if you feel that it is necessary to protect your safety.
If possible, it’s always best to wait for law enforcement or other professionals to assist you.
Handcuffs And Lubricant
One technique that can be used to escape from handcuffs is called the “slip.” To perform the slip, you will need to have some sort of lubricant, such as lotion or soap, on hand.
- First, if possible, remove any clothing or jewelry that may interfere with the escape.
- Then, apply the lubricant to your hands and the handcuffs.
- Twist your hands so that your palms are facing each other and slide them through the cuffs, then rotate your hands back to their normal position.
If done correctly, the cuffs should slip off of your hands.
Handcuffs And Paperclip Or Pin
First, straighten out the paperclip or pin so that it is as straight as possible. Next, bend the end of the paperclip or pin into a small hook shape.
Insert the hook into the keyhole of the handcuffs and try to locate the locking mechanism.
Once you’ve located the mechanism, try to maneuver the hook around it and apply pressure to release the locking mechanism.
It’s important to note that this method of escaping from handcuffs is extremely difficult and requires a lot of skill and practice.
Attempting to do so without proper training can be dangerous and cause injury.
It’s always best to wait for law enforcement or other professionals to assist you if you find yourself in a situation where you are handcuffed and need to escape.
Zip Ties
Another technique that can be used to escape from zip ties involves using a sharp object, such as a safety pin or bobby pin, to pick the lock on the tie.
To do this, insert the sharp object into the locking mechanism and apply pressure until the tie releases.
Ropes
If you find yourself restrained with ropes, there are a few different techniques that can be used to escape.
One technique is called the “wrist roll,” and involves twisting your wrists in opposite directions to loosen the ropes.
Another technique is called the “thumb pull,” and involves pulling your thumbs towards each other to create slack in the ropes.
Once you have created enough slack, you can use your hands to work the ropes off of your wrists.
It’s important to note that these techniques can take practice to master, and attempting to escape from physical restraints can be dangerous.
If you find yourself in this situation, always prioritize your safety and do what you feel is necessary to protect yourself.
Strategies For Defending Against Multiple Attackers
Defending against multiple attackers can be extremely difficult and dangerous. However, there are some strategies that can increase your chances of escaping or surviving such an attack:
- Stay aware of your surroundings: If you sense that you may be in danger, try to avoid areas with low visibility and always be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for groups of people who may be acting suspiciously or in a coordinated manner.
- Stay calm and focused: If you are approached by multiple attackers, it’s important to remain calm and focused. Panic can make the situation worse and increase your chances of getting hurt.
- Use your environment: Look for objects in your environment that you can use as weapons or barriers. For example, chairs, tables, and other large objects can be used to block or impede the attackers’ movements.
- Stay mobile: If possible, try to keep moving and stay on the move to make it harder for the attackers to surround you.
- Strike first: If you are forced to engage with the attackers, try to strike first and take out one or more attackers quickly. This can help to even the odds and make it easier for you to escape.
- Stay aware of your exits: As you are defending yourself, try to stay aware of your exits and plan your escape. If you see an opportunity to escape, take it as quickly and safely as possible.
It’s important to note that defending against multiple attackers is extremely dangerous and should only be attempted if you have no other options.
If possible, it’s always best to avoid confrontation and seek help from law enforcement or other professionals.
What Do Attackers Look For In A Victim?
Did you know that certain behaviors, activities, or even inactivity can increase the likelihood of a criminal going after you?
It can take a seasoned criminal less than seven seconds to size you up.
NBC News
Here are some traits that attackers look for when selecting their victims:
- Being distracted – Are you talking on your phone, rifling through your purse or bag, or otherwise not paying attention to your surroundings? In the eyes of a criminal, you’re an incredibly easy target. They only have to step up behind you to steal your bag or purse. or harm you.
- Unnatural walking gait – How are you walking? Do your arms naturally bend as you walk? Are your feet moving fluidly time and again? Your walking gait can help a criminal narrow his choices of who he or she is going to attack.
In fact, according to a Psychology Today article by Wendy Patrick, Ph.D., “…research has demonstrated that criminals select victims in part, based on how they walk.” It seems that stiff and unnatural walking draws attention to you, as does an otherwise poor gait. - Short strides – Your strides want to convey that you know where you’re going and how to get there. Each step should be made with purpose and be quite long, but not unnaturally so. Medium strides can work as well, but short, shuffling steps might attract attackers.
- Slow pace – If you’re walking in a crowd, you should keep up with the pace of traffic. Otherwise, there must be a reason why you’re lagging behind. You look weak to an attacker since you can’t keep up with everyone else. Plus, you single yourself out by not mixing in with the rest of the group.
- Bad posture – Is your chin up and are your shoulders back? These signs of proper posture can also make you look more confident. Criminals will try to pick off those who they perceive as weak, and confidence can sway them from choosing you.
- No eye contact – You don’t have to stare at everyone around you, but if an opportunity for eye contact arises, do take it. You only have to meet eyes for a second or two, then you can be on your way. If you happen to lock gazes with an attacker, that moment can dissuade them from choosing you to attack.
How Can You Protect Yourself From A Street Robbery?
We all have to leave our houses sometime. When you do, what can you do to stay safe from criminals who wish you harm?
Here are some tips for protecting yourself from a street robbery:
1. Carry Protection On Your Person
It doesn’t hurt to have a canister of pepper spray or mace handy in your purse or bag or something like a small stun gun with an alarm on it. These items can help ward off animal attacks and dog bites, as well.
You might hope you never have to use it, but you should still be able to in case you ever do. Know where the pepper spray is in your bag or better yet – have it in your hand if a suspicious character gets too close.
2. Leave Valuables At Home
We talked earlier about how criminals don’t just choose their victims at random. If you’re being targeted for a street robbery, there’s a reason for that.
Were you maybe flaunting your valuables to your buddy? If a criminal saw that, they’ll try to steal those valuables.
Our suggestion? Leave your valuables at home where they’re safe. When I say valuables, by the way, I mean large wads of cash too.
If you must carry your valuables on you for some reason, keep them tucked away and out of sight.
3. Travel In A Group
A criminal is less likely to target a group of friends or other people simply because they’re outnumbered. The bigger the group you’re in, the less chance you’ll be the victim of a possible attack.
4. Stick To Safe Areas
As much as you can, only travel to places that you know quite well. If you’re visiting a new place for the first time, stay in areas that have lots of people and are well-lit.
5. Trust In Your Gut
If someone gives you an “off” feeling, don’t just discount that.
The same is true if a situation makes you feel bad for some strange reason. It might be best to get out of that situation as soon as possible.
Learning How To Protect Yourself From Being Attacked Can Keep You From Becoming A Victim
When you’re out, remember to maintain awareness of your surroundings, walk with confidence, and don’t be afraid to make eye contact.
Leave your valuables at home, travel in a group, and stay in well-lit areas. These measures will help to keep criminals away.
The Legal Implications Of Self Defense And When It’s Appropriate To Use Force
The legal implications of self-defense can vary depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances involved in the incident.
Generally speaking, individuals have the right to use force in self-defense when they reasonably believe that such force is necessary to protect themselves or others from harm.
In the United States, self-defense laws are governed by state law, and the standards for using self-defense can vary significantly from state to state.
However, most states recognize that individuals have the right to use reasonable force to protect themselves from imminent harm, including deadly force in certain situations.
Of course, the term “reasonable force” is subjective so be very careful when using it in any self-defense situation. The decision to use physical force is a serious one and should not be taken lightly.
Before resorting to physical force, you should try other methods of de-escalating the situation or using nonlethal defense such as pepper spray, tasers, or stun guns.
The use of deadly force is generally considered to be appropriate and legal only in situations where there is an immediate and serious threat of death or serious bodily harm.
For example, if an individual is being attacked with a deadly weapon, they may be justified in using deadly force to defend themselves.
However, the use of deadly force in other situations, such as during a property crime or a non-violent confrontation, may not be justified and could result in criminal charges.
It’s also important to note that self-defense laws generally require that the use of force be proportionate to the threat faced. In other words, individuals cannot use more force than is necessary to protect themselves or others.
In addition, individuals must also be able to show that they had a reasonable belief that they were in immediate danger of harm and that they did not provoke the attack.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to use self-defense, it’s important to contact law enforcement as soon as possible to report the incident and provide any necessary evidence.
It’s also important to seek legal advice to understand the specific laws and regulations that apply to your situation.
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