Self-defense classes will teach you how to protect yourself if you find yourself in an unfortunate situation. There are a variety of self-defense classes for people of all ages. These classes are usually held at karate schools. Look for self-defense classes in your area by searching online. It is important that you learn the critical moves you need to protect yourself in a dangerous situation. These types of situations can occur almost anywhere. Whether you are traveling or shopping at your local mall, you can be prepared for the unexpected. The following is a list of top self-defense tips.
Use Your Elbow
Did you know that your elbow is one of the strongest parts of your body? If you are confronted by a stranger, use your elbow if you can. Of course, if you take karate then you will be more likely to carry out this maneuver successfully. Self-defense moves like these are often taught in a classroom setting. It is important that you learn how to do this move correctly to avoid further irritating your assailant. Once you use your elbow, turn around and run as fast as you can. If you have a cellphone, dial the emergency number while you are running. Make as much noise as you can to call attention to the matter from nearby bystanders.
Give Up Your Wallet
If you are approached and asked for your wallet or purse, toss it away from you. Chances are the robber only wants your money and you can avoid possible injury. In most cases, the assailant will pick up your wallet or purse and take off. It is of no use to try to fight your assailant if they just want your money. Money can be replaced and it is not worth risking your life. Make sure you keep your identification and other important documents in a carrier that fits on your waist if you are traveling. Trouble when you are traveling often comes at times when you least expect it. Make sure you don’t travel alone. Group traveling is the best way to tour a city when you are unfamiliar with the area.
How To Escape The Trunk
If your assailant places you inside of a trunk, you can easily kick the lights out. Some trunks have an emergency release handle that you can use to escape. If there is no emergency release, then kick the lights out and start waving at traffic. This has saved lives in the past and is worth a shot. Once you are in a secluded location, your life could be in danger. Your assailant won’t be able to see you waving from the back of the car. If you have a cellphone in your pocket, then call the emergency number quickly. Try to determine your location by peeking out from the lights. This will help emergency personnel locate you and the vehicle. Pay attention to your surroundings at all times when you are traveling especially out of the country.
Vehicle Safety Tips
Women especially love to sit in their vehicles after they have been shopping, working or traveling. They use this time to make lists, figure out their bank balances or a number of other things. You should always leave the location after you get in your car. You don’t know if someone has been watching you and decides to climb into your car. If you suspect someone is following you, then drive to a public place. Never go home when someone is following you. Call the emergency number on your cellphone for police assistance. Describe the vehicle and get the license plate number to report the information to the police. It is especially important for you not to get out of your vehicle. Honk your horn to draw attention to you. The stalker may well drive away and find an easier target.
If You Are Threatened With A Gun
If you are ever threatened with a gun, do not get into the assailant’s vehicle. Once inside their vehicle, you are at their mercy. Try to make a lot of noise and call for help. Your assailant may very well be frightened and run away. If you take self-defense classes, your instructor will be able to further advise you on the best way to handle these types of situations. Taking self-defense classes is the best way to respond to threatening situations. Establish the habit of looking around you before you get into your vehicle. If you see someone suspicious, turn around and go back inside the mall or shopping center. It is better to lean on the side of safety than to risk a threatening situation. Find mall security to walk you to your car if you are afraid. Mall security personnel are trained to handle suspicious persons or vehicles. They will likely get the local law enforcement office involved too.
Elevator Versus The Stairs
Stairwells are especially secluded in large buildings. Always take the elevator instead of the stairs in these situations. This is also true in condos and apartments. Secluded areas of any building should be avoided. If you are walking alone, be aware of your surroundings. Don’t go into the elevator with someone that makes you uncomfortable. When you leave work at the end of the day, you should walk to your vehicle with another coworker. This is the safest way to avoid possible confrontations with strangers. Many criminals stalk parking garages and lots to look for victims.
Even if you are familiar with your surroundings, you should walk with other people. If you are confronted by a criminal with a gun, you should turn around and run. The perpetrator will likely have problems shooting someone who is running. If you take self-defense classes, you will feel better able to handle most threatening situations. The key is to be prepared and know what to do. Many people have no idea what they would do in these types of situations.
More Security Tips
Study the art of karate if you want to improve your skills. This is a great way to give you more self-confidence when traveling alone. Try not to put yourself in threatening situations by staying with a group when on vacation. Many countries have criminals who prey on tourists that visit their city. Don’t look like a tourist to avoid these criminals. It is important that you research the location where you will be traveling.
It’s not likely that you will find safety information on your hotel’s website. Try to find this information by going to reputable law enforcement sites online. Consider using the government’s embassy’s website for more information about traveling to your particular destination. Group traveling is a fun way to explore a new destination. You won’t have to worry about your safety and you will make new friends from all over the world. Choose a group tour when you are looking for fun and exciting things to do in your new city.
If you are taking a cruise, the same safety rules apply. Most of the excursions are designed for groups. Stay with the groups when you get off the ship at a new port. Even if you are in the United States, you should still stay with a group. Traveling alone is the best way to come into contact with criminals in any city. There is absolutely no place in the world where crime is non-existent. Follow safety rules on board your cruise ship too. It is easy to become relaxed when you are on a cruise. The fact is you are on a cruise with a lot of strangers.
Most people you meet with be nice and not threatening. Just be aware of your surroundings while on board. Cruises are a fun way to relax and enjoy your vacation but you should always follow safety rules wherever you travel. If you do decide to explore the ship on your own, make sure your friends or family members know where you are going. Most cruise ships have security cameras on board. If you feel threatened, don’t hesitate to call security.
The cruise lines want all passengers to feel safe and have a good time. Your cruising vacation is a well-deserved break from your normal routine. Following good safety rules will ensure that you have a good time without dealing with unexpected security problems. Keep your cellphone with you at all times. Avoid going to the gambling hall by yourself late at night. Avoid the secluded staircases on your cruise during the late night hours. Your cruise vacation is a great way to discover new hobbies and interests. Most cruise lines have a variety of activities for people of all ages. Discover the spa on board to give yourself a treat. There are clubs on board that are suited for people of all ages. If you take your kids on your cruise, make sure they follow the same safety rules. They should never be left unattended at the pool, game rooms or any other area of the ship.