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Self defense and emergency thinking skills

selfdefensethinkingWhen most people look at items on an office desk, in a purse, or around the house they see the item and its function. Scissors cut, magazines have articles to read, reflective sunglasses make sunny days easier to bear, right?

Those trained in self defense, emergency thinking, or how to Think Like a Black Belt never limit objects this way.

Scissors

  • become a hole punch to add a hole in a leather belt to better secure a leg splint
  • gouge, tear, or otherwise create bodily trauma to an attacker
  • pry open a stuck window to escape danger or fire

Magazines

  • become a splint when rolled and taped tight for a forearm break or small child’s leg
  • create a blunt weapon when rolled up tightly and ends are used
  • when pages are crumpled up acts as insulating barrier against cold or to keep in cold (in an ice chest)

Reflective sunglasses

  • cover eye movements to subtlety assess a threatening situation
  • reflect sunlight to signal aircraft or rescuers
  • help look around corners in a active shooter situation to see if an escape route is clear

Take a new look at what’s around you. Do things have an added dimension to them now?

Photo: Banjo Brown

Comments on this entry are closed.

  • Hilary January 16, 2011, 8:35 am

    Hi Lori .. this does make absolute sense .. I’m not sure how much I think like this – but I always can make a plan! I do look for something that will do a job – if the item I don’t have isn’t available ..

    Certainly since I lived in South Africa – I’m more aware of security issues .. not so important here in Eastbourne, but when I go to London, use the train, or tube, or travel .. then I’m more aware than most English people I suspect.

    At least being aware .. is a major step forward .. these thoughts are really good for us to read and be aware of .. thanks for this post .. Have a very good year ahead .. all the best – Hilary

  • Lori Hoeck January 16, 2011, 10:53 am

    Hi Hilary,
    Thank you for the New Year wishes and same to you! Keep up the awareness.

  • Mandy Allen January 18, 2011, 6:33 am

    Wow, yes, I have just looked around my lounge and see all sorts of new possibilities and uses for ordinary objects. Great post, thanks.

    Enjoy the journey.

    Mandy

  • Lori Hoeck January 18, 2011, 6:15 pm

    Hi Mandy —
    Thanks for visiting and commenting.
    I’m glad a new vista has opened up for you!