SELF DEFENSE TIPS

Do as much as you can to avoid confrontation - "anticipation and avoidance" are the key words. If you get caught up in a situation, try to talk to an aggressor without provoking them. Practice relaxation, as appearing fearful or stressed can actually provoke an attack. Remember that body language is important in aggressive situations, so maintain a comfortable distance between you and the aggressor.

Use a gas or electronic attack alarm, as these give out a short piercing sound and will temporarily disorientate an attacker, giving you enough time to escape. Carry it somewhere where you can get to it quickly - don't leave it buried at the bottom of your bag. If you don't have an alarm, just make a noise yourself by screaming as loud as you can, or shouting "call the police" - if you're loud enough this can be just as effective as an personal alarm. If you have an alarm, use it and shout as well.

Steady yourself if danger threatens. Panic can disable you, so again it's useful to learn how to keep controlin a difficult situation. And if you must fight back, adopt what the police term the "bash and dash" approach. Primary targets eyes, nose, mouth, ears, throat, groin, knees or shins; choose whichever is easiest to get to.

If held from behind don't struggle forward, you'll only exhaust yourself. Instead throw yourself backwards to surprise your attacker or stomp on the lower leg or foot.

You have the right to defend yourself with reasonable force and this includes using items you have with you such as umbrella, bag, briefcase, or keys. However, don't carry or use anything that the law would regard as an offensive weapon. Once you've achieved your primary aim of stunning or surprising your attacker, get away as fast as you can. If you manage to overcome them don't attack again, you could be putting yourself in more danger or you could end up being charged with assault.

These are just the basics of self- defense, but to learn more about it and get some excercise at the same time, find a local self - defense class and encourage your family along to join you. Just remember "anticipation and avoidance" are the best forms of defense.

Products such as stun guns , pepper sprays , tasers , and training manuals are all helpful in protecting yourself.

Ten Tips For Avoiding Crime

1. Be Alert!
Keep your head up.
Be aware of your surroundings.

2. Vary Your Routines
Predictability makes you a more likely target

3. Lock It!
Home, car, office- locks are your first line of defense.

4. Make Your Home A Tough Target
Use floodlights, motion sensors, a security system, deadbolts, etc.

5. Foil Car-jackers
Keep windows/doors locked, check mirrors and blind spots when stopped.
Stay one to one and half lengths away from the car ahead of you.
Sound your horn and flash your lights if you think you're being approached by a car-jacker.

6. Avoid Car Theft
Lock it!
Use an anti-theft device
Turn the wheels when you park
Never leave a spare key inside the car
Park in a well lighted place
Put packages in the trunk

7. Be Creative
Think of unusual ways to protect yourself and your valuables.
Place a key between your fingers protruding out while walking away from the car.

8. Be Informed
Learn the crime trends in your area and work to protect yourself against them.

9. Get Involved
Have you joined or organized a Neighborhood Watch ?

10. Don't Give Up!
Crime can be reduced - with action, not apathy!

A small stun gun that can fit in your purse such as the Z-force is perfect for the hands of a woman. Motion sensors, and security systems can make your home safer to deter possible theft.
Learn simple self defense moves to defend yourself and stay unharmed.