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"39 Great Tips For Self Defense"

by Richard Callaghan

This article is written to give you some understanding of the basics of self defence. It is an extract from my women's self defence class course notes and largely focuses on awareness as being the key to self defence. However, most of the points listed below can be used by men, women and children. I encourage you to do further reading, or better yet learn some self defence or karate so you can give yourself the best chance of handling an awkward situation should it arise.

IMPORTANT POINTS


1. Prevention is always the best form of defence. Keep intruders out by having good locks on all doors and windows. Drive with doors locked. Stay away from deserted areas (day or night) and travel with friends.
   
   
2. Train yourself to be alert and aware of potential  dangers. Learn to notice things out of place (someone following, for example.)
   
   
3. Surprise is a valuable weapon. Your attacker does not know that you are capable of fighting back. Striking first without delay will give you a definite advantage.
   
   
4. Be sure and aggressive in your response.  Don't  worry about injuring your attacker. They have made a commitment to do you harm so you must make a commitment to stop them - whatever it takes!
   
   
5. Remember, the attacker is not looking for a fight.  He preys on the easy target.  Learn to walk tall and be confident in everything you do.  If you are confident, assertive and determined he looks for easier prey.
   
   SELF-DEFENCE IN THE CAR
   
   
6.  Always let someone know where you are going and how long you will be.
   
   
7.  With "Car Jacking" on the increase it is important to keep all doors locked and windows within 2cm of being closed.
   
   
8. Be wary of strangers at intersections.  Be ready to sound your horn or make an emergency exit, through a red light if necessary.
   
   
9. Keep a torch, pen, paper and coins for emergency situations in the glove box.
   
   
10. Consider purchasing a mobile for use in emergency situations.
    
    
11. Keep a street directory handy and know where you are going.  Keep the car fueled, oiled and watered.  Avoid filling up late at night.
    
    
12. If your car breaks down, use care and discretion.  Phone a friend or the R.A.C.V.  Do not accept a ride from a stranger.  It may be your last.
    
    
13.  If you have an accident (especially at night) assess the situation before you get out of your car.  If you   are worried, stay in your car or if possible drive to a police station, service station or other populated area.
    
    
14.  Never leave valuables in full view.
    
    
15.  Have your keys in hand when approaching your car.
    
    
16.  At night always park under a street light or close to shops.
    
    
17.  Always check the rear seat before getting into your car.
    
    SELF-DEFENCE AT HOME
    
    
18.  Have good locks on all doors and windows.
    
    
19.  Install a "peep hole" in your front door.
    
    
20. Consider installing a security door or an alarm with a panic switch.
    
    
21. A dog can alert you to an intruder and also makes a great deterrent.
    
    
22. Always keep doors and windows locked when out and especially when home alone.  Avoid sleeping with windows open on hot nights.
    
    
23. Garages and carports should be well lit and free of easy hiding places.
    
    
24. Be careful to whom you tell what.  Do not "advertise" if you are going to be home alone.
    
    
25. Never let anyone into your home you are unsure of.  Don't be   fooled.  Ask for identification, phone their employer or refuse access.  If it is legitimate, it will soon be sorted out.  It is always better to be safe than sorry.
    
    
26. Never admit to being home alone.  "Stay there, I'll get it!"
    
    
27. If you suspect your house has been broken into, do not enter.  Call the police and wait for them.
    
    
28. Have emergency phone numbers handy.  Including your local police station and whether it is open 24 hours.
    
    SELF-DEFENCE OUT AND ABOUT
    
    
29. Travel with a friend or friends whenever possible, day or night.
    
    
30. Be aware of what is going on around you and alert to any possible dangers.
    
    
31. Always walk in busy, well lit areas, even if it makes the trip a little longer.
    
    
32. Avoid taking short cuts through parks, parking lots or alleys.
    
    
33. If someone asks you for a light, the time or directions, for example, avoid getting too close or distracted.
    
    
34. Do not accept rides from strangers or hitchhike. No matter how "innocent" the person looks.
    
    
35. If you are worried about someone following on foot, cross the street or change direction.  Head for a shop, office building or where there are people.
    
    
36. If someone is following in a car, turn and run in the opposite direction.  The driver will have to make a U turn before he can follow.
    
    
37. Wait for public transport in well lit areas.
    
    
38. Whenever possible, wear clothing and shoes you can run in if you have to.
    
    
39. Remember to walk tall and be confident in everything you do.

This article was written by Sensei Richard Callaghan. Sensei Richard is a fifth degree black belt and has been teaching karate for 18 years. He is a fully qualified instructor having obtained the "Fitness Leaders Award" with Monash University and Level 2 "St Johns First Aid Certificate". He is registered with the state governments "Martial Arts Control Board" and is a nationally accredited coach.