How to Defend Yourself From an Attacker
One of the most basic human rights is the right to defend oneself against a physical attack by another person. However, self-defense is not as easy as many imagine. It requires many months or years of preparation, both in terms of skill and in mental readiness, and many who acquire the skill fail to act properly at the crucial moment. Learn what to keep in mind when that moment comes.
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Instructions
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React quickly. Defend yourself as soon as you're touched; don't wait until your attacker has a good grip on you.
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Use all your strength to repel the attack. This is not the time to give a half-hearted shove or a light punch. Give it all you've got, because you might not get another opportunity to get it right.
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Stop as soon as the attacker is no longer a threat. You are within your legal rights to do whatever injury you must to save yourself, but once you're no longer in danger, anything you do can be considered retaliation and could result in charges filed against you, not your attacker.
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Get to a safe place. If safety is only a few steps away or if you can run fast, you don't need to do much injury to your attacker to get away. Make your escape as soon as you can, but make sure you can reach it before your attacker recovers and gives chase.
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Call emergency services. You not only need to report the assault against you, but call for aid for your attacker, who may need medical attention. Letting your attacker lie badly wounded can also get you into legal trouble.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are worried that you aren't strong enough or skilled enough to defend yourself physically, invest in a good quality pepper spray or mace. In most states, you are also within your rights to defend yourself with a firearm in certain circumstances.
The best self-defense technique is to always be aware of your surroundings. Don't let strangers approach you, and remove yourself from any situation that doesn't feel right for any reason.
Don't make the mistake of thinking that a few hours of instruction will prepare you to defend yourself. Plan to train for self-defense over months or years.
