Be Victimless

Identify three criminal categories—opportunist, desperate, and predator—to understand how attackers scope out targets and decide how to act, so you can learn how not to become a victim.

Reject a passive mindset by preparing mentally and staying alert to threats; train to act, because one attack could end your life.

Learn the difference between fear and being scared, and how fear paralyzes while being scared can keep you thinking; mental training builds confidence to respond effectively during an attack.

Maintain personal space at arm's length to deter attackers, stay alert to hands, and respond with a defensive stance, loud help, and clear exits when faced with potential threats.

Practice vigilant home safety by surveying surroundings before entering, keeping sightlines clear of tall bushes, and using curtains. Report suspicious cars and engage neighbors or police to deter burglary.

Be aware of predators targeting joggers; lower music volume, vary run times and routes, run with a buddy, and carry mace or pepper spray for escape.

Learn to stay safe by recognizing predators and equipping yourself with non-lethal or lethal self-defense options, such as mace or a pocket knife, and taking a self-defense course.