Be aware of your surroundings
Too often, women are preoccupied and may not be observant. Is someone looking at you or following you? Does the same person or car passed by you many times? Make sure you stay alert and pay attention to what is going on around you.

Be confident
Attackers often prey upon people whom they see as weak and unsuspecting, so keep your head up and walk with a confident stride. Never look frightened even if you are, as your fright will make you an easy target.

React quickly
Try to anticipate dangerous situations in advance and prepare yourself to take quick actions. Learn some basic martial art techniques or take a self defense course so you can gauge the situation better and know what to do when an attack occurs suddenly. Even if you never need to use what you learn, you will gain confidence and strength.

Be around other people
Whenever possible, travel in groups. Bring someone along with you especially when you are going to places that you are not very familiar with. If possible, do not be alone and stay where others can see you.

Trust your instincts
If you sense that someone is following you, change your route and get out of the situation as soon as possible.

Clothing
Choose your clothing with care. If possible, wear clothing which maximizes your freedom of movement so that you can move or run freely.

Be careful
When approaching your car or home, have your key in hand and get inside your house or car quickly. Walk on well lighted areas and avoid dark and secluded places.

Use your weapons
Use strong parts of your body such as your legs, feet, elbows and hands. Aim at the vulnerable areas of the attacker such as the eyes, nose, throat, groin and knees.

Strike with your palm. Thrust your palm upwards and hit the attacker’s nose as hard as you can. Use your legs to kick with as much force on various places of the attacker’s body such as the knee and groin. Stomp on the attacker's foot using sturdy heals on your foot wear. Your elbow is the strongest point on your body and can be used for self defense. Aim for spots on the attacker's neck and face. You can also use your finger nails to slash the attacker’s face. All these may distract the attacker long enough for you to get away and call for help.

Keep a pepper spray or something that can aid in your defense in your bag. If you are at a place where you feel in danger, make sure those weapons are readily accessible. They will be useless if you can't get them instantly when you need them.

Attract attention
If you are being attacked, yell loudly, blow your car horn or whistle. These can surprise or frighten an attacker away as he fears people will come to help.