Here's a complicated question that doesn't have to have a difficult answer: how ready are you for whatever life may throw at you? For millions of Americans, the unknown takes the form of crime, either against them or against their property. The crime may be a mugging, a burglary, or something as simple as vandalism - but it may also include greater, more harmful acts of violence. But while crime isn't as prevalent in some areas of America as others, it's still an everyday problem in every city and town.
The alternative - the solution - is actually surprising in its simplicity. Security, both personal and for property, is the means by which that attack becomes more difficult or, even better, practically impossible. Self-protection, to paraphrase the old saying, begins at home. Closer than that, it begins with the self.
Rule 1: Prepare for anything - but be prepared!
Self-protection is fortifying your body and mind's abilities to defend yourself against attack. By taking self-defense classes, arming yourself with self-defense and self-protection apparatus such as mace, taser guns and stun guns, you enhance your ability to come out of a crime encounter safe and sound.
Rule 2: Know your surroundings
Do you know the crime rate of your neighborhood for this year? What about last year? Do you know where to obtain such information? Crime statistics are available through the public information office of your local law enforcement agency. Many agencies also now provide such information online. By speaking with the agency's public affairs liaison and studying the statistics, you'll know when crime becomes more likely and when to anticipate the need for greater awareness. You should also consult the statistics before deciding where to buy or rent your next home or apartment.
Rule 3: Heighten your senses - and your sense of your surroundings.
Professional self-defense experts teach their students the skill sometimes called "survival intelligence" - the ability to think fast and make decisions based on the information at hand. Knowing the area in which you find yourself (for example, where the fire exits are located in your parking garage, or the distance to the nearest police station) gives you powerful information when an attack becomes reality.
Rule 4: The best defense is a coordinated offense.
Intelligence also includes timing and preparation. When crossing poorly lit areas, walk with a partner or in groups; keep a look out for people around your apartment complex who seem suspicious and report them to your complex's management.
Rule 5: Keep in touch - but don't get too distracted.
Criminals often target people - especially women - who are distracted by talking on their cell phones. Keep phone conversations short and to the point while in the car or walking down busy or poorly lit streets, letting your mind concentrate on your surroundings.
Rule 6: Take classes to learn self-protection strategies.
These are usually available at very reasonable costs from women's groups, local outreach centers, and nonprofit organizations such as the YWCA.
Rule 7: Remember that self-defense is about vigilance.
Remaining aware of the need for self-protection awareness isn't a matter of being paranoid; it's a matter of taking an interest in yourself. Remember above all else that there's no harm in being careful.
Alexis Moore is a self defense expert and writer for Security Saint. A website devoted to self defense where you can buy securitysaint.com Self Defense Products such as securitysaint.com/tasers.html Taser Guns , personal alarms and pepper spray. Learn methods as how to protect yourself.
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