Far more than just kick, bite and scratch; self-defense involves situational awareness, personal readiness, a display of confidence, knowing when and how to engage and knowing when and how to flee.

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Let's take a quick look at three possible scenarios: home invasion, public setting and stray dog. Each scenario poses a unique situation and a unique solution.

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1. HOME INVASION:

Most people consider having a shotgun as the ideal approach for self defense at home; however, personal physicality, firearm training and family response training will trump any firearm simply poised bedside. Your brain is the best home defense weapon - think tactically!

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Have a code word so your entire family can react immediately. Have a "safe" room where everyone can assemble. The room is stocked with fighting weapons. Lock yourselves in and call 9-1-1. If you must fire a weapon, make sure your family is positioned behind you.

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2. PUBLIC SETTING:

Before going anywhere, consider the following: Are you leaving your home alone? Must you run your errands at night? Before leaving your vehicle, are there people nearby who can assist if anything were to happen? If you answered, no, to all three, rethink your situation. Never make yourself an easy target. Never run errands alone at night. Plan your day, in advance.

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​If you are approached by an assailant; again, your brain is your best weapon! Bring attention to your situation. Be loud to intimidate the attacker! Strike the groin and the throat, strong and fast - then flee! Never prolong an attack by standing still. The longer you engage in combat, the more likely you will be injured or killed.

 

If you have a personal weapon, you only use it as a last resort and if you've been trained in using that weapon! You do not want to be overpowered and your weapon be used against you. Disengage the enemy, run to a safe place and call 9-1-1.

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3. AGGRESSIVE STRAY DOG:

If you are approached by a stray dog, do not turn your back to the dog and run. This behavior is common among prey and the dog's natural instinct will be to chase and attack you - head strong! Do not shout at the dog. Instead, stop where you are and deeply blow with a loud whistle, aim a personal siren or spray pepper gel directly at the animal.

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If you are still confronted with the dog, you mustn't fear. Jump onto an item that brings you out-of-reach of the dog's bite (ie. car, fence or tree). If there isn't an object that you can jump onto, you must raise one arm to protect your head and neck and the other arm to cover your abdomen. Also, raise your knee to prevent the dog's body weight from pushing you to the ground. All the while, you are yelling for help.

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