SELF DEFENCE - GENERAL

Unfortunately, self defence has become something that is very important in our society. It's a fact that crime is on the increase, and although this doesn't mean that we should become paranoid, it does mean that we should all be more aware and not take our safety for granted. Good awareness of your environment extends from good self awareness. However, not everyone has the chance to train in rtial Arts so below is a small list of common sense self defence ideas that may help you to become more aware.

You have the right to defend yourself, but if you can escape or avoid a confrontation by being aware of it before it has even happened that is the best form of self defence you will ever use. I am not advocating the use of violence and the list below is not intended as a be all and end all.

SELF-DEFENCE TIPS

• Don't go jogging with a Walkman on - this telegraphs that you are unaware.
Take small hand-weights with you when you go for a jog. They are great for your upper body strength (and make handy weapons, should you need them).
• Vary your jogging route. This will keep potential attackers from discovering a pattern in your routine.
• Never turn your back towards someone you are nervous about.
• Remember that any weapons in your home could be used to attack you!
Do not label your keys with any identifying information.
• Never indicate on your answering machine that you aren't home, use the term "Unavailable".
• All repair/delivery/inspection persons should carry photo ID.
• Never give personal information to door-to-door or telephone solicitors.
• Do not read or text from your mobile phone while walking/standing on the street, you are telling people that you are unaware.
• Check inside and around your car before getting in.
• Lock your car doors and keep the windows rolled up, especially at traffic lights.
• Avoid cars that are parked at the roadside with the engine running; if a car stops to ask you for directions stand a clear distance from the car - do not approach the car.
• Have your car keys in your hand BEFORE you get to your car, you could use them as a weapon
• When confronted by a dangerous dog, NEVER turn and run. This action can trigger the dog's hunting instinct. Stand still, do not look it in the eye (this can be perceived as threatening), and in a low, firm voice say "No!" / "Stop!" etc.
• There is no "guaranteed" self-defence aid (sprays, stun guns, sirens etc.) no matter what an advertiser claims. Nothing works against every attacker in every situation. Realise also that your weapon may be used against you.
• Never depend on just one technique / weapon.
• Be prepared to counter-attack swiftly and decisively - you have the right to defend yourself.
• Nothing in your purse/wallet is worth fighting for - money and credit cards can all be replaced.
• Try not to walk like a victim. Most criminals will avoid the determined and aware and choose the helpless and oblivious.
• Try to listen to your instincts. Don't try to pass them off as paranoia. Our natural senses are more powerful than we give them credit for.
• No one can tell you what you should do (or should have done) in every situation. Only you can make the judgment call for the appropriate action.
• If you decide to stay passive or can't fight back, for whatever reason, try to remember every possible detail about the attacker.
• But if you decide to fight - make sure you fight hard, and don't be afraid to fight dirty!

GOING OUT TO BARS AND CLUBS AND AVOIDING DRUG RAPE

Drug-assisted sexual assault and rape is on the increase in the UK. The Metropolitan Police provide the following advice:

• Plan your journey or night out.
• Make sure that someone knows where you are going and what time you will be home.
• Arrange your journey to and from home.
• When going to a pub, club or party avoid going alone. Friends can watch out for each other.
• Appoint a nominated drinks-watcher.
• Remember, alcohol affects your actions and your reactions as well as your ability to be alert.
• Stay aware of what is going on around you and away from situations that you do not feel comfortable with.
• Never accept a drink from anyone you do not completely trust.
• Do not share or exchange drinks.
• Don't leave your drink unattended, even when going to the toilet.
• Consider very carefully whether you should leave the pub, club or party with someone you have just met.
• If you begin to feel really drunk after only a drink or two seek help from a trusted friend or a member of the club or pub management. It is important to get to a place of safety as soon as possible.
• You must be sure you have absolute trust in the person you seek help from no matter how long you have known them
• If you believe your drink has been drugged or spiked you need to take a urine sample as quickly as possible. This sample is very important evidence that may establish that your drink has been drugged. Take your sample immediately to your GP or the police for testing.

CHILDRENS / YOUNG ADULTS SELF-DEFENCE TIPS

Practising good personal safety habits from a young age is very important, we shouldn't make children paranoid, but we should help them to learn about being more aware.

• Always check first with your parents or the person in charge before you go anywhere or do anything. Be sure to check in regularly with your parents or a trusted adult when you're not with them.
• Always take a friend when you play or go somewhere. It's a lot safer and a lot more fun.
• Never be tricked by people who offer you special treats or gifts . Never accept anything from anyone without your parents' permission.
• Stay safe when you're home alone by keeping the door locked; not opening the door for or talking to anyone who stops by unless the person is a trusted family friend or relative, you feel comfortable being alone with that person, and the visit has been pre-approved by your parents; and never telling anyone who calls that you're home by yourself. Have a neighbour or trusted adult you can call if you're scared or there's an emergency.
• Never go alone to shopping centres, movies, video arcades, or parks. Take a friend with you, and always check first with your parents to make sure it's okay.
• Don't panic if you feel lost. Identify the safest place to go or person to ask for help in reuniting you with your family. Never search for them on your own, and never go off alone with anyone who is trying to reunite you with your family.
• Never take short cuts unless you have your parents' permission.
• Don't wear clothes or carry items with your name on the outside.
• Just because someone knows your name doesn't mean they can be trusted.
• Always walk against the traffic flow as it makes it difficult for cars to follow you.
• Always walk in the middle of the pavement as it makes it harder for someone to pull you into their car.
• Don't get into a car or go near a car with someone in it unless you are with your parents or a trusted adult.
• Never accept a ride or a lift from someone without checking first with your parents.
• Never walk about talking using your mobile phone, texting and or wearing a personal stereo, this cuts off your awareness and makes you an easy target.
• Don't be afraid to say no and get away from a situation or person that makes you feel uncomfortable or confused. Be sure to tell a trusted adult if something happens that makes you feel this way.