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Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Self Defense YW Activity

Recently we arranged for our local police department to come do a self-defense presentation for our Young Women.  They were booked several months out, so we had to plan it pretty far out.   We had about 20 girls show up and it ended up being a HUGE hit.    The instructors gave them lots of instruction on how to stay safe in the first place, then on what to do if anyone ever did try to hurt them.   They were allowed to practice moves and encouraged to be vocal while they practiced.   I learned a lot myself and I think it ended up being a very successful (and helpful) activity.  Below you will find some written notes on basic safety/self-defense.    



#1 TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS 
       *Don't fall for people saying they need your help.  It's not just a trick to lure kids away; many perpetrators also use this tactic on adults as well.   Always say you're calling 911 for them (and get away).    
       * Most crimes are committed by someone you know, so TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS if something feels off
#2 Be aware of your surroundings 
        *Don't get distracted by texts, phone calls, etc. (especially in parking garages, parking lots, and along trails/sidewalks) 
        *Pay attention to who and what's going on around you, especially when you're outside by yourself (day or night) 
  
#3  Use your voice
        *If something doesn't seem right, start making noise
        *Don't just scream without purpose, be specific and loud (even if you think no one else is around)
        *Say things like, "Get away from me."  "I don't know you"   "I'm calling 911"   "Stay back."
  
#4  Stun and run
        *Back up to give yourself space and time
        *First goal is to get away--do whatever it takes (while making as much noise as possible)
  
#5  Using your tools/vulnerable locations
        *Use elbows, hand, head, knees, feet, finger, teeth...whatever you can to hurt them
        *Aim for their vulnerable parts (nose, eyes, throat, groin, feet, shins, etc)
        *If grabbed by arm, hit them as hard as possible on the arm that's holding yours, twist and pull away at the same time. 
        *If grabbed from behind, use your elbows to throw them off balance
 #6  Tell a trusted person
        *Tell a trusted person ASAP what has happened, whether the perpetrator was a stranger or someone you knew




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