Women’s Self-Defense

1. Show Yourself As A Hard Target

Do not seem distracted. Try not to talk on the phone, text, or have your earbuds in. Check your surroundings and make eye contact. Keep your head and shoulders held high. Show that you are alert and that you see their suspicious behavior.

 2. It Is OK To Be Rude

Excuse yourself if you feel uncomfortable or suspicious of someone, and let them know to leave you alone if they approach you asking questions or for help.

3. Watch Your Surroundings

Parking lots are the most significant target area. Whether you have your hands full or are pushing a basket, load your items in your car quickly and check your blind spots often. Assailants can hide anywhere, so ensure you're in a well-lit area and always on the lookout. In addition, be aware of an assailant's potential hiding spots- bushes, parked cars, and alleys.

 4. Do Not Put Up A Fight When It Comes To Valuables

Most assailants just want your money or expensive valuables. Do not argue with them or ask any questions. Instead, give them what they ask for and run in the opposite direction. Afterward, find a safe place and call the police.

5. Be Wary When It Comes To Your Safety Online

Make your social media profiles private and only accept follow requests from people you know. Do not post your personal information online for everyone to see, such as your phone number, address, or current location. It is only safe to post your location once you have left the area a few hours later. Also, do not make your future whereabouts, plans, or vacation spots known online.

6. Be Careful Going Out

Always travel in groups if you are having a fun night with friends, co-workers, or family members. Do not walk around by yourself, showing that you are under the influence. Never go to an ATM by yourself late at night, and make sure your doors and windows are locked when you arrive home.

7. Safety with RideShare Services

When using rideshare services, never get into the vehicle alone. In a situation where you have to ride alone, make it known that someone else has the name of the person driving you, their photo, and their vehicle's description. Do not discuss personal information with your drivers, such as your job (name or location), if you live alone, or your daily activities. If asked, confidently say you have a large dog or live with a roommate or partner, preferably a male.

8. Physical Altercations

If you are caught in a physical altercation with an attacker, always remember their weak points (eyes, throat, or knees). Use whatever is in your hands as a weapon toward their face or weak points. Be as loud as possible, drawing attention to your attacker and what is happening. Keep self-defense weapons with you in your purse, on your keychain, or in your vehicle.

Here is a list of legal weapons that can help in a physical altercation:

● Taser

● Stun Gun

● Pepper Spray

● HyperWhistle

● Tactical Keychain (used to break a window or glass)

● Self Defense Alarm

● Defender Rings

● Cat Ear Keychain