When confronted with a situation that cannot be de-escalated, your primary focus should always be to prioritise your safety and to escape from the area.
If efforts to calm the situation fail, here are essential steps to protect yourself and minimise harm:
Ensure you create distance immediately
The first step in safeguarding yourself is to put physical space between you and the aggressor. Back away slowly and calmly to avoid provoking the person.
Distance can give you time to react if the confrontation escalates further and provides a buffer zone for your safety. Avoid turning your back, maintaining awareness is crucial.
Move to a safer location
As you create distance, aim to move toward a safer area. Look for nearby exits, populated spots, or places with security personnel.
If you’re indoors, position yourself to head for an exit. Avoid confined spaces, as they limit escape routes and could trap you in a dangerous situation.
Signal for help
If possible, make your situation known to others, be specific identify a person by mentioning their clothing colour. Shout for help using clear, specific language, such as “Man in the red top, I need help now!”
This draws attention and can deter the aggressor from further actions. If you’re in a facility with staff or security, move toward them and notify them of the situation.
Plan your exit strategy
It’s essential to have a plan for how you will leave the situation if it continues to escalate. Stay aware of all nearby exits and keep an unobstructed path between you and your chosen exit. If the aggressor blocks your way, try to position yourself where you can move quickly and safely in another direction.
Physical engagement should only be a last resort
Your main objective is to escape, not to fight. If you need to defend yourself, use objects around you to create barriers or distract the aggressor, allowing you to flee. Remember that the goal is not to overpower but to create an opportunity to get away.
Try to stay calm and focused
Keeping your emotions under control is important in a high stress situation.
Take deep breaths, talk clearly and with confidence, do not argue remain composed, and focus on your next move. Panic can impair your judgment, making it harder to make quick effective decisions.
Your safety is the priority so prioritise your safety.
I always say in my self defence sessions. If you can run away (run) or talk your way out of a situation that is first focus. Self defence techniques – I don’t have to hurt the bad person, I just have to stop them from hurting me.
If you would like to find out more about my Beginners Self Defence training options for individuals or groups please contact me on:
Keep safe
Richard Mitchener
SDF Essex Self Defence Instructor Chelmsford
07798 628207