Happy New Year to all. It’s time to get back to basics. During one of my last family night events we talked a lot about gangs but we also talked about things you can do to avoid being robbed yourself. Sometimes in order to understand the mindset of a criminal you have to learn to think like one.

So, with that said, here is my first set of tips you should keep in mind as you go about your daily lives. Use them as your first line of self defense.

1. Pretend you are a criminal. View the world as if you want to ambush someone and steal his cash or belongings. How would you act? Would you hide? Would you blatantly approach them?
2. Look around “fringe areas” before entering. Look in front, to the sides, and behind you. Is there anyone strange around? LOOKING can reduce your chances of being victimized by up to 90%.
3. Avoid loitering crowds. At least 50% of all robberies are “strongarm” robberies – in which a group acts together by surrounding you or assaulting you.
4. Trust your gut instinct.
5. Keep a distance of at least 5 feet between you and anyone who raises your alarm bells. It is NOT rude to tell someone to back off.
6. Avoid or walk away from people you are not comfortable with. There’s no need to feel ashamed of putting yourself in a safer situation.

Would you know what to do if you were in a situation that made you feel uncomfortable? If not, consider coming to our next FREE Community Self Defense class for adults – it’s worth your time.

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