Tag Archives: self-defense

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection

BEST SELF-DEFENSE COMBATS FOR PERSONAL SECURITY AT WORK (GUEST POST)

 

Violence, whether it happens within the workplace or outside of it, can cause considerable harm to employee morale, increase work-related stress, and decrease the overall level of workplace harmony, not to mention the potential human resources and compensation issues.

Employers should provide their employees with a safe work environment, and indeed, some provide pepper spray, automatic locking doors, or other devices to deter attacks. Most companies have taken at least some steps to ensure that their employees remain safe. Some even provide self defense programs to teach you how they would like you to handle such incidents. Apart from the primary benefits of educating a company’s employees in a practical, effective, rapid-learning self defense program which goes far beyond just teaching “techniques”, and includes Legal and Moral Rights and Responsibilities, and Physical Tools of Self Protection – there are many other very important and beneficial reasons why every company should offer such a program. Just as with most other types of insurance, one of the benefits found is in the peace of mind and knowledge that you are protected if something should ever go wrong.  

In this article you will find the list of the 5 best martial arts techniques that can be used for self defense in the workplace. 

1.      AIKIDO

Aikido’s followers learn how to use an assailant’s strength and energy against them. Aikido is performed by blending with the motion of the attacker and redirecting the force of the attack rather than opposing it head-on. Further, if thrown to the ground, aikido practitioners are experts at falling. Thus, they are good at avoiding injuries as a result. Once on the ground, or sometimes while still standing, aikido practices joint locks and choke holds to varying extents. Thus, practitioners are capable of fighting where the majority of self defense situations go. Weapon training is common in aikido, and followers are taught to defend themselves against staffs, swords and knives.

2.      KARATE

Karate is primarily a striking art using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes and open-handed techniques such as knife-hands and ridge-hands. In most styles grappling, locks, restraints, throws and vital point strikes are taught. This martial art is supremely valuable because of not only its health benefits, but also its role as a self defense tool. According to the precepts, it can also be used, “… as a way of avoiding a fight should one be confronted by a villain or ruffian.” However, the karate based martial arts types are highly limited in their takedown defense instruction and grappling, so practitioners need to keep some level of distance in an altercation. On the flip side, since karate is a striking style that focuses on incapacitating strikes, it can be used against multiple attackers with a level of confidence.

3.      BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU

Like traditional jujutsu and judo, the Brazilian form emphasizes throws and groundwork, making it a popular tool for today’s mixed martial artists. With more than 60% of any street fight ending up on the ground, Brazilian jiu-jitsu allows size and strength of the attacker to be taken out of the equation. Brazilian jiu-jitsu does not teach a fighter how to be a good stand up fighter. It does, however, teach people to avoid being hurt on their feet, take others to the ground, and then apply a submission. Further, through the use of leverage, it also teaches practitioners to take on bigger opponents and fight from their back via the use of the guard position.

4.      KUNG FU

 In martial arts circles, kung fu refers to a ton of Chinese martial arts substyles. Kung fu is primarily about striking. Thus, the majority of styles within this realm teach incapacitating strikes to vital areas. This is a good thing in a self defense situation, as speed is the key. What’s more, kung fu does teach a lot about distance control and moving in and out of harm’s way effectively, which limits the damage that can be done to you, the practitioner. Striking tends to be diverse; lots of kicks and punches, including unorthodox ones. As is the case with most martial arts, kung fu’s worth lies in both health benefits and self defense knowledge. 

5.      TAEKWONDO

In self defense, one wants to move in and out of harm’s way quickly, incapacitating an opponent along the way. This is especially true when up against more than one opponent. One also wants to inflict damage and not be hurt; taking chances isn’t always a good thing. Taekwondo teaches its followers to do just these things. Further, it teaches very powerful strikes designed to incapacitate. Taekwondo training generally includes a system of blocks, kicks, punches and open-handed strikes and may also include various take-downs or sweeps, throws and joint locks. Taekwondo practitioners are skilled in strength, stamina, speed, balance, and flexibility.

Self defense training has been shown to improve employee discipline, morale, and critical thinking; it can help to dissuade workplace violence before it starts; it improves creative problem solving skills and is excellent for building workplace unity and enhancing teamwork. Smart companies know that taking steps to keep their employees safe and healthy by implementing things like health and dental insurance, wellness programs, and on-the-job safety training is not only the right thing to do for their employees, but it’s in the best interest of the company’s own fiscal health, longevity, and success.  Furnishing them the proper personal protective equipment (i.e., safety glasses, gloves, hardhats, etc.) for their particular job is the front line of their defense. 

Author Bio: 

This article was submitted by UMA, Melbourne based Ultimate Martial Arts & Fitness school.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UltimateMartialArts

We appreciate this version of safety at work; it would pay if there were some employees on site that could be trained in any one of these martial arts. pb

 

General Safety Issues

SAFETY MATTERS (GUEST POST)

Safety Matters: Tips to Best Improve your Safety and Wellbeing

Sent by Athena Bingham, a paralegal who enjoys freelance writing.  When she isn’t writing, Athena enjoys spending time reading to her children and playing the piano for several local jazz groups.

Let’s face it; we live in an ever-changing, fast-paced and at times, overly-stressed society.  And it doesn’t show any signs of slowing down or becoming more relaxed.  We’ve unfortunately learned that places we perceived to be havens of safety can change in an instant, shattering our faith in peaceful lives and even our own humanity.  But before you grab your gear and head for the hills, there are some simple tips you can follow to help ease your worried mind as well as keeping your sanity in a world that may appear to be spinning out of control.

  • Street Smarts: It’s true, random acts of violence do in fact, happen but the truth is your chance of being the victim of a violent act can be greatly reduced if you are able to keep an awareness about you at all times.  It’s easy to fall prey to distraction, especially following a long day of work or bringing groceries to your car, but that is exactly what a perpetrator is counting on.  Someone with nefarious intentions is looking to take advantage of someone who is not paying attention to their surroundings.  At night, park close to the store’s entrance and under a street lamp if possible, have your keys in hand, double check your car’s interior and above all, if someone is making you feel uncomfortable go back inside and ask a manager to walk out with you.  You may feel foolish but would feel worse if you ignored your intuition and ended up being targeted for a crime.
  • Take a self-defense Class: These are designed to help empower and to feel confident, despite the situation you might find yourself in.  Most are designed to give you, the potential victim, a reasonable amount of information you can rely upon if one day you’re involved with a violent act; whether it’s fighting back, running away or tips to ensure getting a bystander’s attention, (example screaming, ‘fire!’ instead of ‘help’).
  • Safety at home or work: By researching in the comforts of your home you can discover a wealth of information about your neighbors or co-workers right at your fingertips.   Logging onto your local sex offender registry website can give you a head’s up about who shares your neighborhood.  But what about work? If despite complaints to your boss, a coworker is making you feel uncomfortable you can check them out without them ever knowing.  A site like www.peoplesmart.com can help eliminate any doubt about that person who sits a little too close to you.  Remember, knowledge is power and keeping yourself aware of who you live near or work with can help heed caution for yourself.

At the end of the day, unfortunately crime statistics are very sobering.  And for women, studies conflict about the exact numbers that will find themselves involved with a violent crime, as up to 80% of rapes go unreported, but the bottom line is that safety is paramount to your wellbeing.  After all, we all have the right to exist and live with peace, but the reality is that chances are at some point in your life you will encounter crime.  The best advice? Awareness of surroundings and being proactive rather than reactive.

 

General Safety Issues

TOP TEN PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS FOR KIDS (GUEST POST)

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Top ten personal safety tips for kids

Kids are the most endearing and adorable people around, giving joy and pleasure to everyone around. However, they are equally vulnerable to outside dangers and harmful factors. It becomes very crucial and important that they are taught the simple basics of personal safety once they are capable enough to apprehend the lurking dangers. If properly explained and taught the art of self defense and self protection, kids can show a remarkable sense of maturity when the time comes.

Here are the top 10 tips of personal safety for kids:

1. Travel only in known vehicles

Kids sometimes can impulsively take a lift from strangers, if they are late to school or classes. They should never indulge in climbing into any unknown vehicle for the fear of being kidnapped or whisked away for personal gains. It is wise to teach kids only to ride vehicles of known people.

2. Be aware of your surroundings

Kids should be aware of their surroundings and be quick enough to notice any untoward happenings in the vicinity. This will make the kids respond quickly and take flight before any harm is done. You need to teach the kids to have an eye for detail especially in the regular paths that they tread.

3. Carrying only what is needed

Kids should never make a habit of carrying unwanted things such as loads of money or any costly items that can attract thugs to harm them. Thieves are always lurking around and watch the behavior of kids, since they are the most susceptible to sweet talk. Kids should also not carry harmful items such as guns or knives, even if it is for self protection. This can trigger any time and lead to untowardly incidents.

4. Scream for help

Whenever you think you are in danger you can simply shout for help. Almost always, people who are in the vicinity will respond positively to a child’s cry for help and you may be saved from a grave situation. There is no harm in shouting and no one will think twice that a kid has screamed unnecessarily.

5. Be alert

Kids should always be alert in today’s violent scenarios. Any sign of a crowd fight or a mob attack should be sensed at once so that you can run to safety before any harm is done. Whether a fire breaks up or there is building collapse, kids should be quick enough to understand the gravity of the situation and respond instantly.

6. Show bravery

If you think you are being stalked or followed, do not panic. Be calm and composed and see that you reach a place that has enough people around so that you can ask for help. If kids become scared and behave cowardly then the situation may go out of hand and help may come a tad too late.

7. Keep in touch with near and dear

Kids should always carry the phone numbers and addresses of their parents or guardians. This can be of timely help especially if a kid is lost in a crowd. If the kids do not know where to go, it becomes easy for the surrounding well wishers to escort them safely back to their homes.

8. Be wary of strangers

This should be strictly followed by kids that they never ever talk to an unknown person. No one will take the child’s reaction in the wrong way even if they are your close relatives you are meeting for the first time. In fact, they may appreciate the child’s safety sense that the kid is showing ample maturity in this regard.

9. Be careful in water

Many a mishap has occurred in the pool due to simple safety tips not followed by kids. Even if your kids are good swimmers, you need to teach them the basic dangers of water and what to do and what not to do with water. Swimming pools, sea shores are the single most places that have proved fatal to many kids due to lack of personal safety by kids and their guardians.

10. Never walk alone

Kids should always play or walk in groups, so that if in trouble, there is someone else to help you out of the situation. What’s more, you are not exposed to dangers of kidnapping for ransom by stalkers and thieves.

Personal safety is a must for every kid to avoid any untoward happenings. Small personal safety measures can go a long way in keeping your child safe and secure, so that he goes on to grow into an amazing adult who will achieve something in life.

 

About the author: Kelly is a blogger by profession. She loves writing on technology and luxury. Beside this she is fond of blogging. Recently an article on Home Designs attracted her attention. These days she is busy in writing an article on acne vulgaris.  Thank you, Kelly; let’s hope that parents will take these good tips to heart.  Our world is certainly not as safe as it once was.

 

General Safety Issues

COMMON SENSE SAFETY TIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS!

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Every fall, as parents send their youngsters off to college, it is the most natural thing in the world to be concerned for their safety.  We want to share tips that we have either written about in the past, to serve as reminders that the world we live in has its share of dangers.  College freshmen are ready to “try their wings,” and that may mean doing some things that they haven’t done while living at home.  They feel they must show their independence, although Mom and Dad are probably footing all the bills! 

Party time is just around the corner!  I’m not saying they all will do it, but some young people are ready to learn, not just about education, but also about “partying.”  Here are some “sobering facts” that we want to discuss with you first.  Think for a moment about how many missing young college students or other girls are being searched for right now.  They may have been out for a jog, or they may have been with a group and left with some stranger.  Warn your kids that their safety is foremost, and to be aware of their surroundings at all times.  Other unpleasant factors to consider are:

  • “Date Rape” – An unfortunate statistic is that 90 per cent of rapes occur between people who already knew each other and that approximately half of rapes happen on dates.  The Journal of Studies on Alcohol reports that more than 70,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 have been victims of alcohol-related sexual assault.  An illegal drug in the U.S. is Rohypnol, the “date rape drug” that can be slipped into a drink.  It causes drowsiness, loss of coordination, dizziness and memory loss.  Never take drinks from other people, and don’t leave your drink unattended!  Don’t take the chance.  Be sure when you go out to tell someone you trust the name of your date, destination, and planned time of return.  Take your cell phone and money for a cab just in case.
  • Stay with a group. – You are responsible for your own safety.  Get acquainted with people you trust and feel comfortable with.  If something doesn’t seem quite right with a new date, remove yourself from the situation.  Usually your instincts tell you that you are taking a chance.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol.  You can have a good time without drinking so much that it alters your personality.  You will like yourself tomorrow much better if you don’t overdo it the night before.
  • Take a self-defense class. – Chances are you will have to take a gym class, so ask if there are self-defense classes.  It could be the smartest thing you ever do.  Think about carrying self-defense devices such as pepper sprays, tasers (if legal), or personal alarms.  Know how to use these types of devices and be committed to using them should a dangerous situation occur.  Through preparation and awareness you will enjoy increased “peace of mind” and confidence knowing you are protected.
  • Be aware of internet predators. – Practice computer safety, either at home or away at college.    Never give out your personal information to someone online that you don’t know, and be cautious about what you say to a stranger.
  • Use the “buddy system” anytime you can.  – Whether crossing campus, shopping in a mall, going out to eat, or going to a bar, don’t go alone, if possible.  There is power in numbers, so make that your policy.
  • Never go to an ATM at night, or alone.
  • Pay attention to everything around you. – A fun idea is to give yourself and a friend a test walk past someone to see how well you could describe him or her if something happened.  It may surprise you how much you don’t remember, or the different way you and your friend describe him/her. 
  • Make copies of important papers.- Your credit cards, health ID cards, etc., should be stored  in a safe place.  Leave a copy with Mom and Dad. 
  • Last but not least on our list, don’t drink and drive or text and drive! 

Speaking of Mom and Dad, call them at least once a week, to let them know how things are going, your plans for the coming week, and generally, just to touch base.  It is always a comfort to parents to hear from their kids and know they are alright.  There are many other suggestions we could make, and you have probably already heard  these from your parents.  Believe me, as you get older, you will realize just how smart Mom and Dad are.  They have learned from experience, and while they want you to have the college experience, they want your safety, foremost.  Just use common sense.   We wish for you a safe and happy college life.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, High Visibility Safety, Home Safety Products, Uncategorized

WHEN KIDS LEAVE THE NEST, CONSIDER THESE SAFETY TIPS

When raising kids, certain family milestones are times for sadness and gladness.  You are happy because they have completed high school, and excited if they are going to experience college.  You know you will miss them, and regardless of their choices, either to enroll in college, or seek a profession, they are still young, and believe me, you will worry about them.  They are your kids, and you always have concerns, even when they are older; because you love them, you want everything to go well for them. 

There are many safety factors to consider for young people.  You probably have trained them since they were youngsters, but here are some reminders: 

  • They must understand that they are responsible for their own safety.
  • They need to scope out their new surroundings, and be familiar with  the safest routes they will be using.
  •  There’s always safety in numbers; go out in groups, or at least with a “buddy.”
  •   Never walk in dark places alone.
  •   Do not go to an ATM at night.
  •   Trust their instincts.  If they are uncomfortable with what’s   going  on, don’t be afraid to leave.  Most young people are going to try their wings.  But if things get out of hand, they need to move on.
  •  Always carry cab fare.
  •  Consider taking a self-defense class.
  •  Always tell a roommate, friend, or someone else where they plan to be if they are going out at night.  If plans change, they should let that person know, just in case they don’t return when they should.
  •  Have them make copies of important papers, credit cards, health cards, etc. and leave a copy with parents, just in case they are stolen or lost.
  •  Suggest that they have a “health buddy,” someone that will get them to a doctor or emergency room if necessary.  They can do the same for that friend.
  • Warm them of alcohol hazards.  Never mix acetaminophens with alcohol, and encourage them to not overdo drinking, just because it seems to be the popular thing to do.  They need to know that drinking and driving don’t mix. (Texting and driving don’t, either.)

Here are some safety items they should have: 

  • First Aid Kit
  • Auto Safety Kit
  • Smoke, carbon monoxide detectors if the apartment or dormitory doesn’t have them.
  • Fire escape ladder
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Mace or pepper spray
  • Key Chain Alarm
  • Reflective vest for jogging or biking
  • Fully charged cell phone
  • ICE programmed on phone (in case of emergency) on cell phone; authorities know to check for this in order to notify family 

Stay in touch with your kids; have them call you at least once a week, and let you know what’s happening in their lives.  They need to know you are just a phone call (or text) away.  Give them encouragement in the important choices they make.  It’s hard to believe that that little boy or girl you sent off to kindergarten is now going off to college, the military, or a job.  We send them our best for safe, happy, and successful futures.