As recommended by the Chicago Police Department

• A woman doesn't have time to think about how she should respond to an attack she has to be ready to react when it happens.
• But the best way a woman can defend herself is to avoid becoming a victim.
• Run from an attacker whenever you can.
• Be prepared with a plan of escape or action.
• Let someone know your daily plans.
• Avoid isolated areas.
• Call police immediately if something does happen.
• A dog will divert many attackers.
• Don't walk atone in unfamiliar places.
• Don't wear headsets. aware of surrounding noises, footsteps or voices.
• Don't attempt to reason with an attacker.
• Don't carry a gun or open knife. Most people will not use a gun and everyone. even the attacker. will hesitate before using a gun. Police say odds are in your favor if you run.
• Never get into a car with anyone attempting to rob you. There's more on their mind than money.
• If an attacker is able to physically grab hold of clothing, try to slip out of it and run to the nearest place where other people might be.
• If an attacker knocks you. down, try your best to escape and run away. If the attacker continues after you and you can't escape, shift to your side and kick at the groin.
• If it is impossible to kick the attacker but your hands are free, press thumbs deep into the insides of the eye sockets and pull.
• Look tough. A vulnerable looking woman wilt most likely be the one attacked. Not physically tough, but aggressive enough to be in control. Give an appearance of self-confidence
• The best thing to yell when being attacked is "Fire" or "Help police."
• If someone seems to be following you. cross the street. If the person continues to follow, turn around and look at the person. Confrontation may frighten the person, but if it doesn't, get to the nearest streetlight and yell for help.
• Someone demands money. Throw the money in one direction and run in the other. The attacker must make a decision whether to reach for you or the money. In most cases money's the object.
• Carry important phone numbers. If a person is a victim, she might forget even the most familiar phone numbers.
• If someone who gets on the elevator makes you uncomfortable, get off.
• If attacked on an elevator, press every floor button. Yell for help and try to escape at each stop. Do not pull the stop switch. If the attacker pulls the stop switch, do everything possible to start the elevator.