by Mark s stephens

Created on: January 28, 2009

In 2008 we have witnessed in the United Kingdom no matter what the government statistics may tell us a rise in violent crime that is unacceptable in a so called free society. In London alone according to figures published in the Times newspaper and I have no reason to disbelive them eighty three young people lost there lives to knife attacks. Country wide two hundred and fifty three people died as a result of knife crime. How many other attacks were not fatal this figure will run into thousands,street robbery is on the increase and criminals are getting more violent. Hardly anyone I know has not had personal experience or have known someone who has not been affected by this tragic and often stupid story.

Well if we are to accept that society has got more dangerous what can we do as individuals to lessen our chance of being a victim. The article title gives us a clue golden rules of self defense,we defend ourselves. This does not mean we act like the criminal or we all become martial arts experts,what it means is we take sensible precautions. Listed beow are a few idea's that may help address the problem.

If an arguement starts calm it down or walk away before it escalates do not let so called pride or anger draw you in to something more serious. The most serious offences even murder has started from a stupid or thoughtless remark try and keep them to your self.

How often does drink play a part,drink sensibly enjoy yourself but do not get so drunk that you lose control. If you know certain pubs or clubs have a bad reputation stay away just go somewhere else.

Stay vigilant if trouble does start it is easy to get involved just leave go elsewhwere. Listen to your instincts if a place or atmosphere feels bad leave. You will be surprised how often your instincts are correct do not ignore them.

If you are in your car and someone cuts you up or makes a mistake resist the temptation to lean on your horn or shout obcenities at the offending driver why make matters worse. If it was you who made the mistake indicate your sorry with a wave not an angry v sign because someone has let you know you have made a mistake. Easier said than done I know but it calms situations down.

Simple precautions like these can cut your odds of becoming a victim,this does not mean you should always be passive be assertive be confident take a self defense class just do not become a victim. There will be hundreds of simple precautions you can take I just hope that this article has been of some small help.

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