Many people have grown up with false ideas about recognizing crime and violent attacks. They have been taught that violence is not the best answer and dealing with criminals should be left up to the police. This can be true sometimes but you cannot wait until the Police arrive when danger is imminent. You need to learn to recognize violent attacks coming your way. Crime and violent attacks are everywhere these days. You can be attacked at home, in the office, while out shopping, while dinning, while at school, while traveling etc.
When it comes to any assault, you cannot distinguish an attacker based on physical appearance, income level, and ethnic background, religion, family or education qualification. You should get to know people slowly in group situations thus minimizing the chances of falling victim to a predator as they will move onto easy prey. An imminent violet attacker will usually display signs of his intended behavior such as; clinched fists, intense focus, profuse sweating, aggressive speech, distended neck veins, flush skin tone, rubbing his head or swinging his leg, violation of your personal space, and anxiousness or nervousness. Be particularly aware of behavior that doesn’t match the situation or the words that are coming from their mouth.
You need to teach family members especially elders and children to use 911 when appropriate. Also, get to know who your neighbors are and make a safe room in your home so that you can lock yourself in when you have recognized a possible crime or violent attack, preferably with a phone or other communications. Verify the identity of people coming to your house before opening the main door. In the case you feel you’re being stalked by a stranger in a car then proceed to a populated area or a police/fire station and keep in mind, if possible; to pass by street facing surveillance cameras (slowly) to catch images of the stalking perpetrator. Most of the time there are cameras at ATM machines Mall/ Airport /Hospital parking lots etc…
When you recognize a possible attack, remain calm but alert, look for an opportunity to escape and call Police if possible. You also need to be aware of your attacker, weapons used and the environment so that you can describe both to the cops. Be ready to scream “no” and “help” and fight your attacker if needed. Do not plead or beg as this can feed into the attacker’s need for control and power. You can always try to take something from the location or the attacker for evidence to present to the Police but only if possible
