5 Things that Will Quickly Discourage an Attacker

Are you worried about being followed while on your evening run or do you not feel safe in your own home? Unfortunately, attackers only need seven seconds to determine if you are an easy target, and in the United States, someone is sexually assaulted every 98 seconds. To keep yourself safe, there are things you can do that will quickly deter someone who is following you or even lurking outside your home.

 

Walk into a Busy Location

If you feel like someone is following you while you are out on the streets, quickly walk into a busy location such as a store or a bus stop. An attacker is likely to move on for fear of being caught. Once surrounded by people, call the police and do not leave again on your own.

 

Carry a Possible Weapon in Your Hands

There are several large objects you can carry with you that can quickly be turned into an excellent weapon — such as an umbrella. For many individuals, they appear like everyday items that you have in your hands, but for attackers, they can be the thing that stops or hurts them. Additionally, never walk down the street with your head buried in your phone. This makes you an easy target for attackers no matter what you are carrying. Always be alert to your surroundings.

 

You Carry Yourself with Confidence

Attackers will target an individual who they believe is weak and vulnerable. They want to make the situation as easy for them as possible. This means you should carry yourself with as much confidence as possible and appear to be difficult to attack. To be a difficult target, you want to keep your head high with excellent posture. You also want to maintain the average speed — or go slightly faster — than the other individuals waking on the street around you.

 

Another Individual is Involved

If a woman feels she is a target, look for another individual nearby and walk with him or her. An attacker is less likely to strike if he feels like the attacker has someone else on her side. If you are walking by yourself, start up a conversation with the person next to you. If you are in extreme danger, pretend that he or she is a close friend. You can later explain to the person the situation.

 

Place Multiple Obstacles Around Your Home

If you are worried about your safety while at home, take certain measures to keep yourself safe. This means you set up many obstacles for attackers to face before they get to you. A security system is an excellent way to keep your home safe — as long as you diligently use it — and by promoting the security system outside, it can scare away both attackers and burglars. In addition, bars on windows, a large dog, and even cameras on the outside of the home can all deter attackers from attempting to access your living space.