The City Council and The Center for Anti-Violence Education wants to share some basic self-defense tips that can help keep you and your community safer. Please share these with the people you know. These simple tools can help you to prevent, avoid, or minimize potentially dangerous situations. Click here for self-defense tips in Spanish and Chinese.
 
How to protect yourself
• Trust your instincts. They are usually correct. If you suspect that you are being followed, stay away from lonely quiet blocks. Do not lead a potential attacker to your home. Instead go to a store or another populated place.

• Plan your route along well-lit streets where there is a lot of foot traffic or establishments open at the time of your walk. If you are going to an area that you’re not familiar with and it is late at night, walk with others or consider taking a car service or taxi.

• Be alert and active. When walking home at night, keep your head up so you can be aware of your surroundings and people near you. Try to carry yourself in a confident manner - even if you are lost, scared, or upset.  Attackers often seek out people who appear vulnerable. If you are approached, respond assertively or leave. Stay alert as you move away.

• Yell, make a scene. Attackers often expect us to be silent.  Use a loud voice to draw attention & to let the attacker know you will not be an easy target.
 
How to help others safely
Too often people feel helpless when they witness harassment or assault because they fear escalation. Here are a few things you can do:
• During the act of harassment, ask the person who is being harassed "Is this person bothering you"? That question alone may deter a harasser who believes no one will intervene. If the person says yes and the harasser does not leave or persists harassing, tell the harasser to stop or call for assistance (from people nearby, a transit authority worker, or police).

• After the harassment, ask the person who was harassed if they are OK, and if there is anything you can do to help.

If a stranger or someone you know attacks you, remember: it is never your fault. Try to get help and support from friends, family, rape crisis programs, domestic violence programs, counselors, or other services. Call Safe Horizon 212-577-7777 or The Center for Anti-Violence Education 718-788-1775 for information about available services throughout the city.