Client: Steve Lane
Copyright 2008 Steve Lane
Protection From Attack: Keeping Yourself Safe
The law tells us that the use of force is justified when it is reasonably believed that it is necessary for self-defense against another's unlawful force. But, you cannot use any more force than is reasonably necessary under the circumstances.
What does this mean? Well, if someone punches you in the face, you are not justified to pull out a gun and shoot them. So, how do you stay safe and remain reasonably protected from being attacked?
Learn Personal Safety Methods:
� Learn to believe in yourself and nurture that belief. You will better trust your strength, wisdom and instincts. You will be more likely to do whatever you need to for self-protection. If you hear that little voice inside called intuition telling you something is wrong, chances are that you are right.
� Face facts. The world can be a dangerous place and that danger can appear right in your own home or neighborhood. No one is immune to violence and attack.
� Be aware. Know what is happening in the world around you. The more informed and alert you are, the better your chances of protecting yourself from attack are.
� Appear strong. Strength is exuded from confident individuals. If you look like you are sure of yourself and believe in yourself, you are much less likely to be targeted for an attack. Criminals, like wild animals, prey on the weaker of the species.
Be Smart:
Do you really think that fighting back is going to help you? You are dealing with a person who is edgy, wound up and possibly on drugs. Mounting an attack on them will only anger and frustrate them and make them even more violent and dangerous. Defend yourself if necessary, but never instigate a physical altercation.
Don't assume that you will only be attacked by a stranger. The majority of attacks involve people who know each other in some way. Be calm and don't lose your temper or your self-control. Speak calmly to your attacker and humor them, but don't condescend. Do anything you can to reduce the tension of the situation, it may save your life.
Reduce your Risks:
� Know your surroundings and remain in well-lit and populated areas. Pay attention to potential hiding places for attackers.
� Don't take short cuts through isolated areas.
� Avoid going out alone at night.
� Be sure people you know are aware of your typical schedule. If you have plans that are out of the ordinary, like a date, be sure someone knows when you are leaving and when you plan to return.
� Exude self-confidence in all of your actions. If someone is watching you, this will make them think you could be a problem target that they should avoid.
Learn Self-Defense:
Another sure way to protect your self from attack is to learn self-defense. You can attend a law enforcement or community class, research the internet or choose any other method to learn some defensive skills. Then practice those skills with someone. The more educated and aware you are of how to avoid and get away from criminals, the better off you will be.
Protection from attack can be learned and applied by anyone. It isn't the size or gender of the attacker that matters most. It is the self-confidence and self awareness of the would-be victim that determines the outcome of an attack. If you don't set yourself up to be a victim, you have a much better chance of not becoming one.