Self-defense

C.O.B.R.A.™ Self-Defense San Antonio Texas

Beware! The Call of the Scam: How to Avoid Phone Scams

In the digital age, scammers are constantly devising new ways to swindle unsuspecting victims. One of the most prevalent and insidious methods is through phone scams. These scams come in many forms, from fake IRS agents demanding immediate payment to phony tech support offering to fix non-existent computer issues. To…

Staying Safe When Camping

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Camping is a wonderful way to connect with nature and unwind, but it’s important to be prepared for anything that might come your way. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and keep your marshmallows secure while enjoying your outdoor adventure:

Choose Your Campsite Wisely: Select a campsite that is well-lit, not too isolated, and preferably with other campers nearby. Get to know your neighbors by greeting them. If they know who you are, they are more likely to look out for you and your stuff. Avoid setting up camp near cliffs, water bodies, or dense vegetation where wild animals and people might lurk. Trust your instincts when meeting strangers and if something doesn’t feel right, move to a different location. 

Pack Smart: Bring essential safety items like a first aid kit, bright flashlight with a strobe function, whistle or personal alarm, and a multi-tool.  Pepper spray works on most people and animals as a powerful deterrent but make sure you know how to use it. If you are in an area where bears hang out bring bear spray. Don’t bring your precious valuables. The Rolex and grandma’s diamond earrings need to stay home.

Conceal Your Important Items: If you leave your campsite, hide your valuables in your car. Pro Tip: The glove compartment and center console are not good hiding spots. I use a cheap car trash bag that hangs off the back of my passenger seat. Make sure to put some trash items over what you have hidden to conceal it. If you don’t have a vehicle and must leave items in your tent, make sure you hide them as well. A trash can or (my favorite) a fake food can are a great place to stash your cash and important items. No one will want to steal your can of sliced beets.

Lock It Up: It goes without saying that your vehicle should be locked at all times, but what about your tent? A toddler with a sharp blade can get into a locked tent so is it worth it? Thieves like opportunity and easy access. If you are leaving valuables in a tent, it is a good idea to secure the opening, making it more difficult to easily enter. A simple combination luggage cable lock can do the trick by threading the cable through the zippers and tucking the lock on the inside, so it is not visible. Concealing the lock is important because a tent with a big lock on the zipper screams “Hey I left my laptop in here!”. You can use the same lock on the inside when you are sleeping, just don’t engage the dial so it is easy to get out in an emergency. In a pinch, even tying the zippers securely with a shoelace can deter a looky-loo from popping in.

Light It Up: Make sure your campsite is well lit to prevent critters and creepers from lurking in the shadows. Solar lights work great and are cheap and easy to set up. They also give your new digs a festive look. A solar motion sensing spotlight can alert you if a prowler comes near your tent in the middle of the night.

Practice Self-Defense: Consider taking a self-defense class before your camping trip. Knowing the physical techniques you need to protect yourself can boost your confidence and help you stay safe. In case of an emergency, stay calm and assess the situation. Use your knowledge and resources to address the issue and seek help if needed.

Remember, the key to staying safe when camping is preparation and awareness. By following these tips, you can ensure your personal safety and enjoy a worry-free outdoor experience. 

Five Personal Security Resolutions for the New Year

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Creating New Year’s resolutions for improving your personal security doesn’t have to be daunting or difficult. Here are a few simple yet effective things you can do this year to improve your personal safety.

  1. Walk With Purpose – In self-defense, how you walk matters. Several studies have shown that predators often choose victims based on their stride and gait rather than size or gender. Walking confidently, with shoulders back, head up, and arms swinging naturally at your side sends a message that you are not an easy target. Plus, research has shown that walking faster is linked to a longer lifespan! 

2. Lock It Up – Ensure that you protect your most valuable asset… YOU. If you are in your vehicle, make sure all the doors are locked. Especially in parking lots and at gas stations. Keep your doors locked at home as well. Locks are not a fail-safe, but they’re a strong deterrent if you use them consistently.

3. Listen To Your Instincts – Human instincts are hardwired responses that have evolved over time to help us survive. These “gut feelings” draw conclusions based on patterns, experiences and clues that may not be immediately apparent to your conscious mind. Whether it’s changing your route, avoiding a person or situation, or preparing for a potential threat, listening to your instincts can help you stay one step ahead.

4. Limit Sharing Personal Information – In the digital age, sharing details about your location, travel plans or daily routines can put you at risk. Don’t give a scammer or cybercriminal an inside track to exploiting you or your family, and don’t publicly post this information or share it with anyone but essential, trusted contacts.

5. Plan For Potential Crisis –Having a general action plan for different threat scenarios can significantly improve your ability to respond effectively. Having a hard copy of the important items in your purse or wallet allows you to easily respond if they are stolen. Maintain a written list of emergency contacts, including family members, friends, and relevant authorities. At home, work, and public spaces identify exits, emergency services, and safe areas in advance. Tailor your plans to your specific circumstances and involve your family or household members in the preparation process.

By adding just a few simple tools to your self-defense arsenal, you can have a significant impact on your overall safety and personal security. Acquiring basic self-defense skills can boost your confidence and empower you to protect yourself in threatening situations.

Should You Use Pepper Spray for Self Defense?

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Pepper spray can be effective for self-defense in certain situations. Pepper spray, also known as OC spray (oleoresin capsicum), is a non-lethal chemical irritant that can cause discomfort, pain, and inflammation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. It can incapacitate an attacker temporarily, giving you a chance to escape and seek help.

Here are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

Training and Familiarity: Simply carrying pepper spray isn’t enough; you should also be trained on how to use it effectively. I recommend the SABRE Pepper Gel Kit with Blue Water Practice Spray which includes a maximum strength spray and a practice water spray canister. Our students practice using this in class and learn to deploy it quickly and accurately under stress.

Wind and Environmental Factors: Pepper spray can be affected by wind, which might blow the spray back toward you or away from your target. Pepper gel is a better option and mitigates the blowback tendency of spray and can be used effectively in indoor environments. Again, it is important to practice using it under different conditions to increase your accuracy and familiarity.

Range and Accuracy: Pepper spray has a limited range, typically around 6 to 12 feet. You need to be within this range to use it effectively. Unlike some self-defense tools that require you to be in close contact with the assailant, it can be deployed without making physical contact.

Effectiveness: Pepper spray doesn’t work on everyone equally. For many, it is extremely incapacitating, but some individuals might have a higher tolerance to its effects due to factors like alcohol or drug use. It might not stop an attacker completely, so having a backup plan is important. Even if effective, the spray mainly is buying you time, so in either case we train our students to verbalize loudly drawing attention to the situation, break contact, and get away.

De-escalation and Escape: While pepper spray can provide a useful means of self -defense, the primary goal in any self-defense situation should be to de-escalate and escape if possible. Often just taking a tactical stance and aiming the spray is enough to discourage assailants.

Legal Considerations: Pepper spray is legal in all 50 states although some are more restrictive than others. Texas has no prohibition on the type of defensive spray utilized by civilians. If traveling outside of Texas, make sure you know the local regulations and any restrictions on it’s use. Pepper spray is a good self-defense tool for travelers and can be transported in your checked baggage according to the TSA.

Ultimately, pepper spray can offer an added layer of personal protection, but it should be used responsibly and as a broader approach to personal safety. Taking a comprehensive self-defense class that includes physical techniques as well as everyday weapons is best. It is important that you have easy and immediate access with any self-defense weapon. Attacks happen quickly and unexpectedly and there is no time to dig to the bottom of your bag for defense. Ideally, a pepper spray canister should be carried in the same place every day in a belt holster or loose outer pocket. If you walk at night or in isolated places you should have your pepper spray in your hand. The SABRE PepperLight is a great product for evening walkers and is a combination of an ultra-bright flashlight with maximum strength pepper spray. These products also have UV marking dye to help with suspect identification. Often, when a person properly carries pepper spray, they become hyper-vigilant and much more aware of their surroundings which is the cornerstone to personal safety.

Avoid Bank ‘Jugging’ Crimes

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“Jugging” is a crime that involves targeting individuals, often the elderly or distracted, who have just withdrawn money from a bank, ATM, or financial institution. The “jug” refers to the bag or container used by the victim to hold the cash they withdrew. It has become one of the fastest growing crimes in our area, leading the Schertz and Converse police departments to warn people on social media about these crimes.

The process of jugging typically involves the following steps:

  1. Observation: Criminals identify potential targets by observing people at banks or ATMs who withdraw significant amounts of cash.
  2. Tracking: The criminals follow the targeted individuals discreetly, tracking them to their next destination, such as their home or place of work.
  3. Wait for the Right Moment: They wait for an opportunity to strike when the target is away from their vehicle or otherwise distracted.

4. Vehicle Break-in: If the target leaves the cash in their car the criminals break into the vehicle and steal the money.

5. Direct Confrontation: In some cases, they may use intimidation or force to steal the cash from the victim.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of jugging, it is essential to be vigilant and take precautions when withdrawing or carrying large amounts of cash. Here are some tips:

  1. Be Discreet at ATMs: Avoid displaying large sums of money in public view. Use ATMs in well-lit and populated areas, preferably during daylight hours. Although less convenient, it is always safer to withdraw cash the “old school” way, inside a guarded bank.
  2. Vary your Routines: Criminals often stake out certain locations. Vary the times and locations of your cash transactions. If possible, take someone with you.

3. Secure your Cash: If you must carry large sums of money, keep it concealed and avoid leaving it unattended in your vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is locked as soon as you get in.

4. Be Aware of your Surroundings: Be mindful of anyone who appears to be monitoring your movements or displaying suspicious behavior. Notice people sitting in their cars.

5. Report any Suspicious Activity: If you believe you are being followed or observed, call 911 or go to the nearest police or fire station.

Jugging is a “crime of opportunity”. The victims may be seen as easy targets because they are less cautious about their surroundings after completing a financial transaction or purchasing a large ticket item such as a watch or jewelry. San Antonio has seen a rapid increase in these incidents. Your personal safety should be your highest priority. Learning how to avoid dangerous situations is one of the primary tools in the COBRA Self Defense Training System. 

Learn the Five Most Common Child Predator Lures

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    Young children are naturally more susceptible to being tricked by adults because they have limited cognitive development and a lack of life experience. They have not yet encountered a wide range of situations and people, so they haven’t developed the necessary skepticism or awareness to recognize deceptive behavior. They trust adults and authority figures and have a strong desire for their approval and validation. Manipulative adults can take advantage of this to deceive and exploit children. Protect your children and learn these five common predator lures:

  1. The Helpless Lure – This is the person who needs help carrying boxes to his car or finding a lost pet. Children need to be made aware that if an adult needs help, they will ask another adult and not a child.

2. The Promise Lure – The predator promises to take the child to Mommy, Daddy or to see something special like a kitten or puppy.

3. The Gift Giving Lure – This is the predator who gives the child candy, toys, money, or other gifts. Children need to know ahead of time that they should never take anything from a stranger without their parent’s permission.

4. The Messenger Lure – In this situation the predator is acting as a direct messenger for the parent. “Your Mommy was in a car accident and asked me to bring you to her.” They will often impersonate a person of authority.

5. The Magician Lure – The predator seemingly magically knows the child’s name, parent’s name, or other information about the child which makes the child believe this person can be trusted. Names displayed on backpacks, lunch boxes, or clothing can easily give them enough information to fool an innocent child.

    It’s important for adults to be aware of these vulnerabilities and take appropriate measures to protect children from manipulation and deception. During early childhood, children tend to view the world from their own perspective and may struggle to understand that others can have different intentions or motives. Role playing and participating in scenario-based training can help build confidence and resiliency. Glen Stevens (COBRA Australia Regional Director) developed the COBRA Child Abduction Prevention (C.A.P.) course for children ages 4-12.  This two-hour class is taught world-wide and focuses on informing parents and keeping children safe from predators. It is important to teach children about personal safety, critical thinking, and developing a healthy skepticism without instilling fear or mistrust. 

Learn more about the COBRA CAP Program

Beware! The Call of the Scam: How to Avoid Phone Scams

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In the digital age, scammers are constantly devising new ways to swindle unsuspecting victims. One of the most prevalent and insidious methods is through phone scams. These scams come in many forms, from fake IRS agents demanding immediate payment to phony tech support offering to fix non-existent computer issues. To protect yourself from falling victim to these scams, it’s crucial to be aware of the most common tactics and know how to respond. Here’s a guide to help you avoid phone scams and stay safe:


Recognize the Signs: Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency. They may claim that you owe money or that your computer has a virus. They may also ask for personal information such as your Social Security number or bank account details.

Verify the Caller: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from a legitimate organization, such as the IRS or your bank, hang up and call the organization directly using a verified phone number. Do not use the number provided by the caller.

Don’t Trust Caller ID: Scammers can use technology to make it appear as though their call is coming from a legitimate number. Do not trust caller ID alone as a means of verifying the authenticity of a call.

Never Give Personal Information: Legitimate organizations will never ask for personal information such as your Social Security number or bank account details over the phone. If you are asked for this information, hang up immediately.

Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers: If you receive a call offering a deal that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be skeptical of unsolicited offers and do not provide any personal information or payment.

Never Give Personal Information: Legitimate organizations will never ask for personal information such as your Social Security number or bank account details over the phone. If you are asked for this information, hang up immediately.

Be Cautious when Traveling: It’s easy to let down your guard when on vacation. Anyone can call a hotel room; “Hey this is Frank from the front desk and we just need to verify your credit card number”… It is important to review our Travel Safety Tips before going on vacation.

Report Suspicious Calls: If you receive a suspicious call, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov/complaint. Reporting these calls can help authorities track down and stop scammers.

Stay Informed: Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, so it’s important to stay informed about the latest scams. Follow reputable sources such as the FTC or your local consumer protection agency for updates and tips on how to protect yourself.

Remember, the best defense against phone scams is awareness and vigilance. By knowing how to recognize and respond to these scams, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to fraud. The best way to avoid phone scams is to stay informed, and don’t let the call of the scammer catch you off guard!

The Benefits of Reality-Based Scenario Training

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    One evening after work, you’re at an ATM Machine withdrawing money when someone presses what feels like the barrel of a gun to the back of your head and says, “Don’t move.”  What do you do? Later, while mentally and physically stressed, you come home to find a masked intruder standing in your kitchen.  You can hear your heart pounding.  This isn’t the set up for the next John Wick movie, it’s what happens in COBRA Self Defense classes all over the world.

    Reality-based scenario training is the cornerstone to effective self-defense training. When training in self-defense techniques, it is essential to practice them in scenarios that mimic real-life situations. This means incorporating factors such as distance, lighting, verbalization, and different types of attacks. By doing so, students are better prepared to react and adapt to realistic threats, rather than relying on preset techniques that may not work in whatever unique threat you experience.

10 key elements of COBRA Scenario Training:

  1. Realism: Each scenario is as realistic and unpredictable as possible to prepare students for real-life situations. Learning how to effectively escape from a wrist grab is important but doing it while someone is yelling at you and actively trying to pull you into a room requires many more abilities than just one micro-technique.
  2. Safety: COBRA provides a safe environment to practice self defense techniques. Protective equipment is provided and used, and training intensity is actively monitored by certified instructors and trained staff members.
  3. Adaptability: Scenarios are adjusted to different skill levels, physical abilities, and experience.  The techniques required are taught and reviewed before each scenario.
  4. Awareness: Students are placed in environments where they must be aware of their surroundings, identify potential threats, and respond appropriately. This all adds up to faster reaction time during real-life events.
  5. Decision Making: When violent attacks occur, you have seconds to decide what to do. Scenario training helps students repeatedly make quick decisions while under extreme pressure.
  6. Emotional Control: It’s important when defending yourself to stay calm.  This is a skill that must be practiced. Panic impairs decision making and increases mistakes. Scenario training helps students learn to stay calm under pressure, control their emotions and think clearly, even in stressful situations.
  7. Mental Preparation: The brain can’t always distinguish between perceived and actual threats, which causes it to activate the same neural networks in scenario training and actual situations. Students develop reflexes, and decision-making skills that build a self-defense mindset, awareness, and overcome their fears and anxieties related to self-defense. 
  8. Confidence: Regular scenario training can increase an individual’s confidence in their ability to defend themselves in potentially threatening situations. This confidence can translate into other areas of their lives, such as work or personal relationships.
  9. Physical: By repeating techniques and practicing scenarios, the body develops muscle memory, making it easier to react instinctively in a high-stress situation. It provides a full-body workout, increasing strength, endurance, and flexibility.
  10. Feedback: Effective feedback is essential for students to understand their strengths and weaknesses and improve their techniques. Instructors provide constructive feedback on technique effectiveness, decision making, adaptability, and situational awareness.

    COBRA scenario training can improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase confidence by providing individuals with a safe and controlled environment to practice and test their skills in realistic scenarios. COBRA Self Defense is the global leader in reality-based self-defense training, and we specialize in scenario training during our Ten Week Academies.

Learn more about our programs today!

5 Proactive Tips to Protect Your Cell Phone

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Your Cell phone is not just a convenient device: it’s a treasure trove of personal information. Losing it to theft can be a nightmare, but if you take proactive steps to protect it, you can limit the damage and increase the chance of recovery. Losing any valuable possession to a thief can be traumatic but getting into a physical confrontation over that possession is life-threatening. Having a comprehensive protection plan will help keep you calm and able to prioritize your personal safety.

Here are a few Cell-Defense steps you can do today:

  1. Record your device’s serial number. You will need this when you file a police report. The IMEI or International Mobile Equipment Identification number can be found in various places like, your phone settings, the online account, physically printed on the phone, or on the original packaging. If your phone is recovered, the authorities can easily trace it back to you.
  • Use strong passwords and biometrics. This may sound obvious, but according to a recent survey, over 50% of smartphone users do not use passwords or biometrics to protect their phones. Set a strong PIN to unlock your phone and enable biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition). Fingerprint authentication is more secure than facial recognition which might be opened using a photo of your face.
  • Set up automatic backups. As painful and costly as it is to lose the device, losing your photos, videos and contact content can be more heartbreaking. Both Google and Appleoffer automatic backup features that make it easy to recover just about everything on your phone.
  • Activate a phone finder app. There are many options for finding a missing phone and they may come preinstalled on your phone, but you must take the time to activate and learn how to use it before something happens. Many provide a lock and erase feature which adds an extra layer of security if the phone is stolen. Some of the more common ones are: Google’s Find My Device, Apple Find My Phone, and Samsung Find My Mobile. If the phone is on, you can track where it is. It is important not to confront someone who has stolen your phone, which can lead to a potentially deadly encounter. Give your tracking information to the police and let them retrieve it. You may consider installing an additional anti-theft app which can take photos or record data along with remotely wiping data.
  • Guard your gear. At COBRA we stress training, awareness, and threat recognition as the best ways to protect yourself.  The same holds true when protecting your possessions. Don’t leave your phone unattended and be discreet when using it in crowded areas. Don’t carry your phone in easy to access places such as a back pocket or an exterior purse or backpack flap. If you leave your phone in your car, carefully conceal it from view. And giving your phone to young children in public makes it as easy to steal as taking candy from a baby.

By following these proactive tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of your cell phone being stolen and mitigate the damage if it is. Stay vigilant and prioritize your phone’s security to keep it safe.

Empower Your Valentine:

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Self-Defense Tips for Protecting Yourself and Loved Ones

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, our focus typically shifts to expressions of love and affection. In a world where threats can arise unexpectedly, being prepared and empowered is a valuable gift you can give yourself and your loved ones.

Here are some practical self-defense tips for protecting yourself and your loved ones:

  1. Stay Aware: One of the most effective forms of self-defense is awareness. Encourage your loved ones to practice situational awareness in everyday scenarios. This includes being mindful of exits in public spaces, avoiding isolated areas when possible, and being cautious when approached by strangers.

2. Develop a Safety and Support Plan: Have an open discussion with your family and friends about safety strategies and emergency protocols. Establish a plan for various situations, such as what to do in case of harassment, assault, or home invasion. Rehearse the plan regularly to ensure everyone knows their role and feels confident in executing it.

3. Encourage Safe Communication: Create a supportive network where you and your loved ones can openly discuss safety concerns and share experiences. Offer encouragement and reinforcement and be there to listen and provide assistance when needed.

4. Promote Confidence and Assertiveness: Confidence can be a deterrent to potential attackers. Encourage your loved ones to project confidence through body language, assertive communication, and maintaining eye contact in social interactions.Instincts are powerful indicators of danger. Teach your loved ones to trust their gut feelings and to act decisively if they sense something is wrong. It’s better to err on the side of caution than to ignore potential warning signs.

5. Learn Basic Self Defense Techniques: Learning basic techniques such as strikes, blocks, and escapes can boost confidence and provide valuable skills in case of an emergency. COBRA SATX offers self-defense classes and seminars tailored to different age groups and experience levels. Learning effective skills to overpower a stronger bigger attacker can build self-esteem and give you the tools you need to stay safe.

By prioritizing safety and self-defense, you can empower yourself and your loved ones to navigate the world with confidence and resilience. This Valentine’s Day, give the gift of protection and peace of mind – because nothing says “I love you” like ensuring the safety and well-being of those you cherish.

Navigating the Festive Season:

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A Guide Holiday to Self Defense

As we immerse ourselves in the joyous and hectic spirit of the holiday season, it’s crucial to remember that safety should remain at the forefront of our celebrations. While the holidays bring warmth and togetherness, they can also pose unique challenges. Here are some practical tips for maintaining personal safety during this time.

Stay Aware and Mindful: The hustle and bustle of holiday crowds can create an ideal environment for opportunistic criminal behavior. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places such as shopping centers, markets, and public events. Exercise extreme caution in parking lots and make sure you secure your vehicle and possessions.

Online Shopping Safety: With the rise of online shopping during the holidays, it’s essential to protect your personal information. Use secure websites, update your passwords, and be cautious of phishing scams. Monitor your bank statements regularly to detect any unauthorized transactions.

Personal Protection Strategies: While the goal is to prioritize prevention, it’s important to be prepared for unexpected situations. You can greatly increase your personal protection by taking a self-defense class to boost your confidence and learn practical techniques. COBRA Self Defense SATX offers classes for all ages and abilities.

Travel Safely: Whether you are driving long distances or navigating commercial transportation, holiday travel can expose you to various risks. Plan your routes in advance, inform someone of your travel plans, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Learn more about COBRA holiday travel safety tips here.

Home Security: If you are traveling during the holidays, take steps to secure your home. Inform a trusted neighbor or friend, use timers for lights and consider investing in a home security system. Avoid broadcasting your travel plans on social media until after your return.

Moderation in Celebrations: Holiday festivities often involve indulging in food and drinks. While enjoying the celebrations, be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Excessive drinking can impair judgement and increase vulnerability. Have a plan for getting home safely, whether it is using a designated driver, ride share service, or public transportation.

Trust your Instincts: Your instincts are powerful tools for self-defense. If something feels off or uncomfortable, trust your gut feelings and take appropriate action. Take time to care for your personal well being before becoming overwhelmed. It’s better to prioritize your safety and sanity than to ignore potential risks.

As we revel in the magic of the holidays, let’s embrace a proactive mindset towards our safety. By staying aware, practicing smart habits, and being prepared, we can ensure a joyful and secure holiday season for ourselves and our loved ones. Remember, the gift of safety is one we can all give to ourselves and those we care about.

COBRA Holiday Travel Safety

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The holiday season is a wonderful time for relaxation, celebration, and connecting with loved ones. Whether you’re traveling to visit family or jet-setting to a dream destination, it’s important to keep safety at the forefront of your plans. With all the distractions, it’s easy to forget the importance of proactive self-defense. While we all hope for a peaceful and problem-free trip, being prepared for any situation can make a significant difference. Here are some essential self-defense tips to ensure your holiday travel remains safe and enjoyable.

  • Research Your Destination – Familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and potential safety concerns. Some areas may have higher crime rates, while others may have specific travel advisories. If traveling abroad, check the State Department’s website for country updates and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Being informed is the first step in staying safe during your holiday travels.
  • Check Insurance – Familiarize yourself with what your current insurance does and does not cover relating to travel. Consider investing in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings. Make sure you are not only physically but financially protected in case of unforeseen events.
  • Share Your Itinerary – Before you leave, share your travel itinerary with trusted friends and family. Include details of you route or flight, accommodations, and any planned visits. Check in regularly to let them know if plans change. Wait until you return home to share your trip on social media. Don’t make it public knowledge that you are not home.
  • Hotel Safety – Book a room between the 3rd and the 6th floor. Criminals are more likely to rob rooms on the first floor and in the U.S., fire truck ladders often do not extend beyond the 6th floor. Always lock and dead bolt the door and keep your windows closed and locked. Make your room appear occupied when you are away by leaving the radio or TV on and putting the Do Not Disturb sign out. Add extra layers of protection like a portable door jammer.
  • Protect Your Documentation – Make copies of everyone’s important documents, including credit cards, passports,  and licenses. Ensure you can easily access them if the originals get lost or stolen.
  • Secure your Personal Belongings – Keep a close eye on valuables, especially in crowded places where you might be distracted like airports and tourist attractions. Use theft-resistant bags or money belts to keep your belongings safe. Luggage locks can provide a deterrent during transit.
  • Stay Alert – Maintain situational awareness. Be observant of your surroundings and the people around you. Avoid being distracted by your phone or personal devices while in unfamiliar places. People who look like they are lost or from out of town are especially vulnerable to crime. Try to blend in and don’t draw attention to yourself. This can deter potential opportunistic criminals.
  • Trust Your Instincts – One of the best parts of traveling is the opportunity to meet new people.  If a situation or person makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to remove yourself. Trust your instincts; your intuition is a powerful self-defense tool.
  • Learn Basic Self Defense Techniques – Take a self-defense class before your trip to familiarize yourself with basic techniques. COBRA Self Defense SATX offers classes for all ages. Make sure children and teens know what to look for and how to keep themselves safe by putting them in age specific classes. These life-saving skills can provide confidence and may prove invaluable in a dangerous situation.
  • Plan Safe Transportation – Choose reputable transportation options and stick to well-lit and populated areas. If you are taking a taxi, use licensed services. When using ride-sharing apps, verify the driver’s identity and car details before getting in. Always share your ride details with a friend.
  • Emergency Contacts – Have local emergency contact numbers on hand and know how to reach local law enforcement. It is better to be prepared and never have to use this information.

While holiday travel is an exciting and joyous experience, ensuring your family’s safety should always be a priority. Remember that self-defense isn’t just about physical techniques; it’s about being prepared, staying aware, and making smart decisions. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to have a safe and festive holiday adventure.

How to Deescalate a Verbal Confrontation

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If a someone is yelling at you, it can be an uncomfortable and challenging situation.  Remember that in a verbal self-defense situation, your goal is not to win the argument, it is to stay safe and keep it from escalating into violence. Here are some strategies you can use when faced with an aggressive verbal confrontation.

  1. Assess the Situation: Quickly evaluate what’s happening and determine if there’s a potential threat to your safety. Be aware of your surroundings. If you feel physically threatened or believe the situation may escalate into violence, trust your instincts, and move confidently away.

2. Maintain Personal Space: Respect personal boundaries and ensure there is enough physical distance between you and the other person. Invading someone’s personal space can provoke a defensive reaction and increase the likelihood of violence. Don’t allow them to be close enough to grab or strike you. 

3. Recognize Early Warning Signs: Be aware of signs that the situation may be escalating, such as raised voices, aggressive body language, or threats.  It’s crucial to identify these signs early to intervene before things get out of control.

4. Stay Calm: Keep your own emotions in check. Take deep breaths and remain calm and composed. Your calm demeanor can have a positive influence on the other person.  Responding with anger or aggression will likely escalate the situation. Engaging in a shouting match will prolong the conflict and increase the likelihood of further aggression. Remember that your primary goal is your own physical safety.

5. Use Non-Threatening Body Language: Your body language can influence the tone of the interaction. Maintain an open posture, avoid crossing your arms, and keep your gestures calm and non-threatening. At COBRA Self Defense SATX, we teach our students a passive combative stance. Stand with one leg back to maintain balance and mobility and keep your hands out and open above your waist to allow for quicker defensive reactions. This passive stance allows you to be more reactive and can help defuse tension and create a more peaceful atmosphere.

6. Choose Your Words Wisely: Use respectful and non-confrontational language when communicating. Avoid insults, derogatory remarks, or inflammatory language that can further provoke or escalate the argument. Express empathy by saying things like “I can see that you are upset,” or “I understand why you feel that way.” Maintain eye contact and show that you are paying attention. Avoid interrupting or telling them to “calm down.” Sometimes people just need to be heard, and by actively listening, you may be able to diffuse the situation.

7. Seek Assistance: If the person’s behavior becomes threatening, aggressive, or you feel unsafe, immediately seek assistance from bystanders, security personnel, or authorities. They can provide support, defuse the conflict, or help you find a safe place.

8. Walk Away: If the situation does not show signs of improvement or resolution, it is best to disengage. Calmly and confidently walk away from the person. Your safety is your top priority and often removing yourself from the situation is the most effective course of action.

Remember, each situation is unique, and your safety should always be your priority. It’s important to address conflicts and disagreements early on before they escalate into potentially violent situations. Cultivating effective communication skills and conflict resolution techniques can significantly reduce the likelihood of an argument turning violent. Self-defense classes like the COBRA 10-Week Academy that teach these skills and allow you to practice them in a safe scenario-training environment can boost your confidence and your ability to stay calm and effectively handle aggressive encounters. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to seek help from others or authorities to ensure your safety and well-being.