Think the holiday shopping rush is harmless? Think again. Traffic accidents, parking lot arguments and stampedes are just a few of the things you might have to contend with the next time you drive to the mall for some much-needed holiday shopping. Need self-defense tips for the holiday rush? Here are some simple and practical tips:

Be alert and confident
Most criminals looking for their victims during the holiday rush shopping prefer those who are easy targets – the ones who are alone, lost and unsure of themselves. In short, those who are weak and insecure enough not to put up a fight in case of an attack.

As a means to discourage an attack, a good self-defense technique is to act confident, walk tall and straight and move purposely. Speak in a clear, confident tone of voice. If you appear confident, you’ll look like a difficult target to a criminal.

Know your route and destination
You’ll be safer if you have a fixed itinerary. That way, you’ll know exactly where to go and which route to take.

Stay visible
During holiday rush shopping, try to remain with the crowds. You’re less likely to be attacked when there are other people around. Keep to where the people are and if you must walk, walk only in well-lighted streets. Make sure your car is parked in a lighted area as well. Avoid spaces that are too far away from entrance or exit points.

Avoid personal distractions
Holiday rush shopping requires a bit of focus. That means avoiding distractions such as a mobile phone, a PDA or an iPod. If you’re shopping this holiday, you cannot afford to have your attention diverted. If you’re distracted, it will be easier to steal from you.

Have extra cash stashed in your pocket
A few coins (in case you need to use a pay phone) and a small amount of cash will come in handy in case of an emergency. Keep loose change in your pocket so you don’t have to carry extra purses.

Be prepared
Have your car keys in hand on your way out the door. On your way home, have your door keys ready. Fumbling for your keys or trying to remember where you put them is not an effective self-defense tactic, especially not during holiday rush shopping. You’ll be too focused on finding your keys to assess the safety of your surroundings.

Don’t forget to bring the essentials
If you’ll be shopping alone, why not arm yourself with self-defense tools such as a can of pepper spray or a stun gun? The goal of self-defense is actually to prevent a crime but if that can’t be helped, why allow yourself to be helpless and vulnerable? If you have self-defense tools, you’re less likely to become a statistic.

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image credits to sxc.hu