Any victim of a vicious attack such as a stabbing or a bullet fired by a rifle or a handgun, knows all too well that the world isn’t just full of good people, it also contains plenty of haters too. The number of shootings alone that occur in the U.S. are staggering. If the victim of a shooting is able to survive their wounds, they are often physically and emotionally damaged for the rest of their lives.
But all too often, the guilty party in a shooting isn’t just the shooter, but the owner of the property that was being occupied when the attack occurred. Says Stein Law, a gunshot wound attorney, while the U.S. and other parts of the world often realize mass shootings, most shootings involved just one or two victims. Naturally, the shooter is ultimately responsible for the vicious attack, but property owners and managers also bear some legal liability since they are, by law, required to provide adequate security.
Being prepared is key when it comes to navigating these uncertain times and when it comes to reducing the risk of violence, such as shootings, stabbings, and muggings. According to a recent report by UW Medicine, proactive measures can play a significant role in self-defense. Recommendations are said to include practical strategies such as maintaining vigilance, carrying items like pepper spray for additional security, and considering legal self-defense options like obtaining a pistol permit.
These proactive measures are essential for enhancing personal safety. They should not be misconstrued as placing blame on potential innocent victims. Rather, they empower individuals to take control of their safety in an increasingly unpredictable world.
Keep in mind, from a legal point of view, assault is never the fault of the victim. But the victim suffers the consequences either by being brutally beaten, stabbed, or shot. For many people, learning the basics about self-defense can boost confidence and aid them in being more prepared if they find themselves in a situation where their life is being threatened.
Says a public safety office from the University of Washington’s Medical Center’s Department of Public Safety, self-defense is much more than knowing how and when to throw an effective punch. In fact, throwing a punch might be a last resort. A better tactic for staying safe is to employ disengagement tactics. In other words, it’s better to diffuse the threatening situation rather than amping it up with physical violence.
In real world attacks, many specific self-defense moves are abandoned out of sheer panic. If a person is not training in self-defense tactics on a daily basis, chances are the tactics will never be executed properly in the heat of battle.
The following disengagement and self-defense techniques can assist a potential victim with getting free of a potentially dangerous, if not lethal situation.
Be Vigilant
It’s of the utmost importance that a person be always aware of his or her surroundings. This is referred to as situational awareness. Being fully aware of what’s happening nearby will help a potential victim notice movement that’s out of place. If a person does not feel comfortable walking to the car after the late shift, for instance, it’s best to return to the workplace and locking the door. The next move is to call in security or even the police.
A person should not be focusing on their phone when walking all alone at night. This provides the perfect opportunity for a would-be attacker or shooter to come up on a victim from behind. If an attacker wants to get the jump on a person, it will be harder for him if his victim is aware of his or her surroundings.
If Possible De-escalate
De-escalation means knowing how to calm a potentially violent conflict down so potential victims can exit the situation without having to fight. For example, if an attacker pulls out a gun and demands money, it’s best to give them what you have. Or if an attacker is simply a hater who is picking a fight, do not engage even if this insults your pride.
A threat should always be taken seriously, which means it’s best to get away from an attacker and call for backup or help if necessary.
Maintain a Healthy Distance from an Attacker
In the event of a sudden attack, such as a shooting in a crowded area or school, swift action is crucial for personal safety. It’s of vital importance to prioritize escape and to seek refuge rather than attempting to counter-attack which can escalate the danger for both the victim and others nearby.
Immediate communication with emergency services such as contacting 911 is imperative to facilitate a rapid response and to minimize potential harm. It’s of paramount importance to keep in mind that victims of such violence are not at fault, and that their primary focus should be on seeking immediate assistance in the name of self-preservation.
Plan an Escape Route
Says UW Medicine, unsafe and potentially deadly situations are no time for propriety. A woman should immediately strip herself of jewelry, high heels, or anything that impedes movement or the ability to sprint to safety.
Potential victims who are within relative proximity of their vehicles should carry their keys. They should trigger the car’s emergency alarm to create noise and flashing lights which could confuse the attacker and bring attention to him.
Train With a Weapon and Carry It
It’s often been said that the reason America has never been attacked by a foreign army since the War of 1812 is because of its proliferation of legally licensed firearms. Gun ownership is not only a constitutional right in the U.S., but it is perhaps the best defense against an armed attacker. Some potential mass shootings have been stopped due to the defensive actions of a licensed and trained gun owner, saving untold lives.
People who do not possess a gun license can utilize pepper spray, brass knuckles, belt buckles, key chains, and more. Even dirt tossed into a would-be attacker is regarded as an effective form of self-defense.
If a victim must fight to diffuse the dangerous situation, there’s nothing wrong with fighting dirty. That means punching the attacker in the throat, gouging his eyes with the thumbs on both hands, and kicking him in the crotch. When the attacker is down and neutralized even for a moment or two, it’s best to run away and contact law enforcement.
But bear in mind, if you possess a weapon, learn how to use it effectively, and always keep it concealed on your person. Better to have the weapon and not need it, than to be attacked without it. Remember, prevention is the best self-defense against a would-be attacker.
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