Self-defense and personal protection is something everyone needs to have. Much has been written on the subject and many products have been created. Martial arts training has been and continues to be a useful endeavor. However, the best self-defense one can employ is simple and will not take years to master or large sums of money to implement. This article will explain the simple way to protect yourself and your loved ones.

So what is the best self-defense tactic and why is it so simple? It is the best and it is simple because each one of us posses it. It is given to us at birth and refined as we age. Most, if not all, animals posses it as well, although at a lower level than humans. It is, in a word, “instinct” or possibly more commonly known as “common sense”. Awareness and avoidance of possible danger is the theme.

You have seen it in the movies and on TV. The “hero” drives, walks or is placed in a “bad” area and is surrounded by the “bad guys”. This is true in real life as well. There are bad areas in every city and town on earth. Avoiding these areas is “common sense”. We all know what they look like. Dark streets, alleys, graffiti, empty buildings, broken windows, etc. Those things that make the hair on the back of your neck stand up. The things that give you that feeling in the pit of your stomach. Instinct.

Awareness of and avoiding these areas is paramount to your safety. Nevertheless, you can sometimes find yourself in an area that is suspect. In this situation your best self-defense tactic is to turn around quickly and retreat. Go back the way you came whether on foot or traveling in a vehicle. If you continue through the area you cannot be sure of what is ahead. You could be quickly surrounded by a gang or persons that could be detrimental to your well being.

Awareness of your surroundings in your daily life is just as important. Without being paranoid, know where you are and who is around you at all times. Limit cell phone usage as you travel. Talking on the phone is extremely distracting. You may have just passed the thug that was waiting for someone talking on a cell phone. The thugs are aware how distracted you are and see you as an easy target while on the phone.

It goes without saying that bars and nightclubs are more dangerous than most people believe. Look at the latest news regarding high profile professional athletes. Alleged shootings, fights and rapes. More often than not these are not reported on in the local paper if an average citizen is involved. Nevertheless, there is a reason most bars and nightclubs employ bouncers. Most bouncers are well trained in self-defense or martial arts. Alcohol and ego oftentimes don’t mix well.

Be alert and aware at all times. Move with confidence. Walk quickly. Try to go with others. There is safety in numbers. You never know who may be watching. Self-defense and personal protection is your responsibility. The more aware you are the safer you will be.