Unfortunately, it’s not incredibly rare for people to fall prey to unforeseen attackers. In 2018, the Federal Bureau of Investigation had reported that 3.3 million people aged 12 or older were considered victims of violent crime. Nearly thirty years ago, 76 separate incidents occurred for every 10,000 people. The number of cases reported was half of that in 2018. However, feelings of complacency leave people vulnerable to acts of assault or battery. Since the deadliest criminals know how to protect themselves and conceal their activities, it’s important for you to prepare for the worst.
Pay Attention to Those Around You
Good criminals think strategically. The stealthy predator knows when you’re off guard and deliberately closes in on you to prevent you from escape. This is why pickpockets who get away with stealing money and credit cards from crowded areas often don’t get caught, as they’re able to blend into places with loud noises and other stimuli. Shift your eyes from time to time to catch a glimpse of the people you’re nearby whenever you’re walking out in public. Statistically, a person making a grimace or someone who stomps by angrily are both more likely to attack you than someone who’s paying attention to their smartphone.
Stay Confident and Strong
People who appear timid or weak are usually targeted by criminals. Their behaviors are usually influenced by fear and distraction, which usually makes people feel powerless and ineffective. They’re less likely to fight back against the criminals who know they have the upper hand when it comes to a fight. Someone who appears more confident is more likely to resist their attacks and stand their ground when they feel threatened. Assuming you keep your phone placed away where others won’t notice, you’re able to download an app with a threat reporting system at work or anywhere else to keep yourself and others safe.
Learn to React Quickly
When you’re in a dangerous, life-threatening situation, you don’t have much time to act. The element of surprise is a powerful weapon to use against the attacker. Use self-defense when you have to protect yourself and carry blows to anatomical areas that inflict the most hurt. This weakens the attacker and allows you more time to escape from the situation. If you fail to act quickly, you won’t be able to defend yourself and you’ll fall victim to potentially greater pain, whether it’s physical or psychological.
Train yourself to stay alert and act quickly. You’ll place yourself in a greater position to prevent violent crime, not simply to yourself but to others around you as well. By taking these three tips in mind, you’ll be able to turn the predator into prey.
