Self Defense Awareness Month

We see it in on TV all the time, when someone walking home is being followed by a person lurking in the shadows. The news is also full of real stories of people getting attacked while walking alone. But what would you do if you ever found yourself in that situation? If attacked, how would you defend yourself? In observance of Self Defense Awareness Month this January, it’s important you know how to prepare and what you can do.

Most people think self-defense is hurting your attacker before he or she can hurt you. But self-defense actually means doing everything possible to avoid fighting someone who threatens or attacks you, says the Nemours’ Foundation for Teen Safety. Self-defense is about outsmarting attackers, not always outfighting them.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t be prepared in case of an attack. If you live or commute in a poorly lit area or a neighborhood with a history of violence, consider taking a few martial arts classes to learn valuable defense techniques. But remember, the legal definition of self-defense permits you to only use as much force as is reasonably necessary in any situation.

The biggest part of self-defense is avoiding potentially harmful conditions. Here are some ways to avoid undesirable situations from the National Crime Prevention Council:

• Understand your surroundings. Walk or hang out in areas that are open, well lit, and well traveled.
• When possible, travel in a group.
• Make sure your friends and parents know your basic schedule, like where you’re going and with whom.
• Be sure your body language shows a sense of confidence. Look like you know where you’re going and act alert.
• When riding on public transportation, sit near the driver and stay awake. Attackers look for vulnerable targets.
• Carry a cell phone if possible. Make sure it’s programmed with numbers of a few friends and your local police precinct.

If you find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, be sure to trust your instincts, like if you ‘feel’ someone is watching you. Also, carrying a whistle on your keychain is a simple way to attract attention when you need it most. Check out Nemours’ Foundation for Teen Safety for more easy-to-use information on staying safe from crime and violence.