Feeling Safe on the Street 101

By Alexis P., 17

This piece is inspired by the GTGS pamphlet collaboration on women’s self defense.

All of us have been there. A man following you home after you pick up your groceries. Being unable to take the train alone because of the leering men on the subway. Getting catcalled on the way to the gym. Change is slow, and so in the meantime, ensure that you know these tips and tricks to keep yourself safe!

Self Defense Equipment + Weapons

Equipment and devices recommended for women to protect themselves.

• Personal Alarm Keychain: Emits noise, alerts bystanders, and discourages active attackers.

• Self Defense Ring (18+): Worn as everyday jewelry and can cut skin, discourage attackers, and collect DNA for tracking.

• Pepper Spray (18+): When used properly, pepper spray can end an attack without the use of violence or having long lasting effects.

• Stun Ring / Gun (18+): Recommended for those who prefer not to draw blood, stun rings or guns are very effective in deterring attackers.

• Pocket Flashlights: If attacked in an unlit area, utilize the flashlight to draw attention, recognize the attacker’s face, or even temporarily blind them.

Self Defense Techniques + Tricks

• Target the body’s weak points: The areas that are best to attack are the ones that affect seeing and breathing, meaning you should go for the eyes, nose, throat, solar plexus and groin.

• Fight with your head if you’ve been grabbed from the front. If you’re being grabbed from the front, slam your head into your assailant’s nose, and then your knee into their groin, chin, etc.

• If you find yourself pinned against the wall, target a vulnerable spot: Target the jaw, armpit, neck, or groin.

• Drop low if you’re grabbed from behind: the areas that are best to attack are the ones that affect seeing and breathing, meaning you should go for the eyes, nose, throat, solar plexus and groin.

• Rotate your wrists to free yourself: If your attacker is holding your hands or wrists and won’t let go, rotate your wrists toward their thumb and then try pulling your hand free quickly.

• Rely on the “Hammerfist Punch”: Use the move in almost any situation where you find yourself in danger, and especially effective when punching the attacker directly in the face, particularly the nose, jaw, or temple.

• Familiarize yourself with the “groin kick”: Recommended for those who prefer not to draw blood, stun rings or guns are very effective in deterring attackers.

More Tips:

• If on a college campus, know the emergency contacts near you, such as the campus police or security systems.

• Avoid walking alone, or if you are, walk home on well lit, busy streets.

• Share your schedule with your friends and if entering somewhere sketchy, notify a friend!