Staying Safe During the Holidays: A Self-Defense Coach’s Guide
The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and celebration, but it’s also a time when criminals seize opportunities to take advantage of distractions and vulnerabilities. As someone with over 40 years of experience in self-defense and personal safety, I want to share practical advice to help you and your loved ones stay safe. Let’s explore the common risks of holiday scams, robberies, burglaries, and assaults—and how to protect yourself.
Understanding the Risks
1. Scams: The holidays see a surge in phishing emails, fake charity requests, and online shopping scams. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), fraudulent activities spike by as much as 30% during this time. Criminals use fake websites, too-good-to-be-true deals, and emotional appeals to exploit holiday cheer.
2. Robberies and Assaults: Busy shopping centers and crowded events make people targets for pickpockets and muggers. The National Crime Prevention Council highlights that robbery rates often increase by 20% during the holiday season.
3. Burglaries: With people traveling or leaving their homes unattended for holiday gatherings, burglars have more opportunities to strike. FBI crime statistics consistently show a spike in residential burglaries between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
Practical Strategies for Staying Safe
1. Avoiding Scams:
- Verify Before You Buy: Only shop on reputable websites. Look for secure URLs that begin with “https” and check reviews.
- Beware of Emails: Don’t click on links from unknown senders. Legitimate companies won’t ask for sensitive information over email.
- Charity Donations: Use trusted platforms like Charity Navigator to verify organizations before donating.
2. Preventing Robberies and Assaults:
- Stay Aware: Keep your head up and your eyes moving in public spaces. Avoid distractions like texting or wearing noise-canceling headphones.
- Carry Strategically: Keep bags close to your body and wallets in front pockets. Use crossbody straps for purses.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, leave the area and seek help.
3. Protecting Your Home:
- Secure Your Property: Install deadbolts, use smart locks, and reinforce doors and windows. Motion-sensor lights and security cameras are great deterrents.
- Maintain the Illusion: Use timers for lights and leave a car in the driveway when away.
- Be Mindful of Social Media: Avoid posting travel plans or gifts online, as this can alert burglars.
4. Personal Safety Tips:
- Have a Plan: Establish safe meeting points and emergency contact protocols with family members.
- Self-Defense Awareness: Learn basic self-defense techniques or take a refresher course. Awareness and preparation are your greatest tools.
- Carry Essentials: Items like pepper spray or personal alarms can provide added security.
Real-Life Coaching Tips
As a self-defense coach, I encourage my clients to cultivate what I call “practical vigilance.” This means balancing awareness without fear, making decisions rooted in preparation. Here are my top coaching takeaways:
- Mindset Over Muscle: Your awareness and decision-making skills are more critical than physical strength. Train your mind to recognize and avoid threats.
- Practice Situational Drills: Run through “what if” scenarios with your family. For example, discuss what to do if someone follows you in a parking lot.
- Invest in Education: Taking a self-defense class empowers you with confidence and technique. Consider gifting a course to a loved one this holiday season.
Conclusion
The holidays should be a time of joy and celebration, not fear. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim. Remember, safety isn’t about paranoia; it’s about preparation. Let’s make this season not only merry and bright but safe and secure.
For more tips on thriving during the holidays and beyond, visit www.thrivewithmartin.com.
Sources and Further Reading
- Federal Trade Commission: Holiday Scams and Consumer Alerts
- National Crime Prevention Council: Holiday Safety Tips
- FBI Crime Statistics: Burglary Trends
- Charity Navigator: Verifying Legitimate Charities
Stay safe and thrive this holiday season
Martin — Thrive with Martin !