| When you hear someone say "self defense," the | | | | and ready. Park your car in well-lit areas and don't go |
| image that probably pops into your head is a buff guy | | | | alone when you can bring a friend. - Trust your |
| or girl doing martial arts demonstrations on a | | | | instincts. We've all felt that prickly, "I'm-Being-Watched" |
| heavily-padded and willing assistant. Or maybe you | | | | sensation. Don't let your fear of being "silly" or |
| imagine a little old lady whacking a would-be purse | | | | "paranoid" let you ignore your feelings. Maybe that |
| snatcher over the head with her large, heavy bag. Self | | | | shifty character isn't really following you around the |
| defense sounds very physical, and sometimes it can | | | | grocery store - but if you feel threatened or afraid, tell |
| be. But there are other ways to protect yourself and | | | | someone and get away. - Think body language. |
| avoid potentially dangerous situations. Self defense is | | | | Criminals look for easy targets. When you are out in |
| not always about fighting. Many people believe that | | | | public, do you wander aimlessly with your hands in |
| self defense is about kicking someone in a certain | | | | your pockets? Do you make eye contact with others |
| place, or knowing how to execute the perfect punch | | | | or keep your head down? You should always look |
| to bring down an attacker. The truth is, sometimes | | | | confident - back straight, head up, and arms at your |
| fighting back can put you in a much more vulnerable | | | | sides. Walk purposefully with a destination in mind. - |
| position. A good self defense strategy begins with | | | | Carry a cell phone. A phone is a great way to call for |
| your mind. It doesn't matter if you are male or female, | | | | help in an emergency, or to let loved ones know |
| teen or retiree - everyone needs to know how to | | | | where you are. Just don't get carried away: |
| avoid dangerous situations. Here are some | | | | remember, a cell phone can be very distracting and |
| self-defense tips that will help keep you safe and | | | | can lower your guard. Use common sense and good |
| aware in any situation: - Avoid conflict. Maybe the guy | | | | judgment. - Take a self defense class. Self defense |
| in the car in front of you cut you off and is driving like | | | | classes can teach you more about staying aware and |
| a maniac. Every fiber of your being is urging you to | | | | protecting yourself. Many community centers and |
| speed up and tailgate him, flashing your headlights and | | | | athletic clubs offer self defense classes for people of |
| extending a certain impolite finger. We've all heard | | | | all ages and abilities. Self defense is about prevention. |
| stories about road rage turning violent. Avoid turning an | | | | When you pay attention to what's going on around |
| annoyance into a dangerous confrontation by not | | | | you, you are sending a message of strength and |
| reacting. - Be aware of your surroundings. Your arms | | | | confidence to any potential attackers. Listen to |
| are loaded down with bags after a marathon shopping | | | | yourself and trust your feelings, and never be afraid to |
| spree. You leave the mall and head for your car. Did | | | | call for help if you need it. |
| you look around? Always be aware of who is nearby | | | | Ralph Winn writes about Security Systems and other |
| and what is going on. You should have your keys out | | | | related topics. |