http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za/images/cosmo_logo_toolbox.gif Money en-us catherined at cosmopolitan dot co dot za Copyright 2009 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/legal-weapon
1. Lightning Rod 800 000V Stun Pen and Led Flashlight
It’s a functioning pen and flashlight – hook it into your jeans pocket for understated security.
How To Use: Choose 300 000 volts (V), or 800 000V for a more powerful impact. Hold down the button and it’ll emit a loud noise as it gives off an electric current. That should be enough to scare your attacker away from a distance. If it’s not, hold it against his skin as he approaches and it’ll make his body go lame – and stay that way for 30 minutes.

2. Small Fry 950 000V Mini Stun Gun
It’s small enough to fit in your handbag.
How To Use: If you’re being threatened by someone, press the button. A loud electric current and piercing noise will be emitted. Chances are he won’t take a step closer. If he does, touch his skin with the stun gun. Although it’s small, it gives off a hefty 950 000V.

3. Self-Defence Spray – Home Unit
Install it at home.
How To Use: Fix the Velcro holding the can of pepper spray under the dashboard of your car or on the wall next to your bed, and rip it off if you need to use it. It spurts as far as 3m and fogs the area. Once you’ve sprayed, run in the opposite direction so you’re not affected by it yourself!

4. Self-Defence Spray – Key Ring
Hang your car or house keys on the key ring for instant, easy access to the container of mace spray attached to it.
How To Use: Hold the container upright, release the safety catch and press the button. The spray releases a metre-wide fog up to 1,5m away. Your assailant will fall to the ground, his skin and eyes will burn, and he’ll cough and may vomit. He’ll be down for 20 minutes.

5. Personal Self-Defence Spray
Use it when an attacker is coming straight towards you.
How To Use: Aim for his eyes. The spray comes out in a direct stream (like water from a water pistol) and shoots up to 7m away. And it’s really hot, creating a burning sensation on contact. The main ingredient is habanero chillies, the hottest known chilli.

6. Self-Defence Spray – Translucent Dye
The mace spray gives off a dye similar to that used in polling stations (this one’s pink).
How To Use: Spray at your attacker: if he’s caught, the dye, which shows up under police UV light, will identify him as the assailant.

7. Air Horn
If you’re prone to freezing up in a scary situation, the horn will scream for you.
How To Use: You need only lightly touch the button and the ear-splitting blare will be heard up to 100m away, attracting help and almost certainly scaring away any assailant.

All the products featured are available from Liquid Bullet (011) 444-5201 (Johannesburg); (021) 554-2505 (Cape Town). For more info, visit www.liquidbullet.net.

]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/be-aware-of-road-rage-pg1
According to a study carried out in 2003 by the South African Medical Research Council (MRC) and the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Interdisciplinary Accident Research Centre, single men aged between 18 and 25 are most likely to be responsible for road-rage incidents.

And approximately 10% of the motorists surveyed reported that they carried a weapon while driving. If these statistics aren’t enough to alarm you, imagine coming bumper to bumper with such an irate stranger.

DON’T BLOW A GASKET
‘The person exhibiting road rage is so out of control that you should stay defensive and not do anything to spur him on,’ says Sanette Smit. It has nothing to do with you personally – the other driver is annoyed at your driving – so fight the urge to make an offensive hand gesture or roll down the window to yell at him.

‘Keep as much distance between you and an angry driver as possible,’ says Smit. ‘If you’re really close to him, chances are great that he’s going to get physical. And if he does so, target his groin to prevent him from aiming any blows at you.’

Smit suggests trying these strategies in the following situations:

A driver is hooting furiously behind you	‘Drive to the nearest police station or petrol station – there should be people around who can witness the incident and help you.’
Someone has made an obscene hand gesture at you
Another driver is standing at your car window, shouting at you

THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS
According to the MRC study, 39% of drivers surveyed had received a fine for a moving-car violation (including speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and driving through a red traffic light). The survey also showed that drivers get the most irritated with taxi drivers and while driving in peak-hour traffic.

DO YOU (OR DOES YOUR MAN) SUFFER FROM ROAD RAGE?
Take this test to find out.
Do you:
• Often swear loudly at other drivers?
• Roll down your window to shout at another driver?
• Make obscene or threatening gestures at other drivers?
• Deliberately prevent another car from cutting in in front of you?
• Speed past another car as you overtake as a sign of protest?
• Mentally picture what you’d like to do to another driver (such as ram into the back of his or her car)?
• Chase after another car or race off at a traffic light before the car next to you does?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, you could have an anger-management problem. Talk to a therapist and practise self-calming methods to use in tense situations. If your man constantly suffers from road rage, suggest that he see a counsellor. In the meantime, don’t get into a car with him.

DON’T START SOMETHING
Try not to annoy other drivers by driving slowly in the right lane, tailgating or making offensive gestures – not even ‘harmless’ ones such as shaking your head in disapproval.
If another driver is acting in a hostile way, don’t make eye contact. Keep your eyes on the road.
Adjust your attitude. It isn’t a race – you might get to your destination two minutes later but at least you’ll get there.
Be courteous. Wave ‘thank you’ if someone has let you pass them.
Signal your intentions early.
It’s okay to let a bus or taxi go in front of you. You may be surprised at the hearty ‘thank you’ you receive.

]]> Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/butt-kicking-basics-pg1

THROAT GRAB	What happens: The attacker grabs you by the neck. 'Strangulation is the number-one attack move,' says Smit. What to do: 1. As he grabs your throat, you'll naturally take a step back – use this step to steady yourself. 2. Lift your hands to his face and use your thumbs to gouge his eyes. He'll probably raise his hand to his face, giving you a chance to get away. 3. Or, with flat or cupped hands, hit his ears as hard as you can. This will cause him extreme pain and could burst his eardrums. While he reacts in pain, run away.
BEAR HUG
GROUND ATTACK

*Photographs by Debra Roets

]]> Thu, 06 May 2010 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/public-enemy-1
'In shopping centres, be extra aware of your personal space,' says COSMO's self-defence expert Sanette Smit. That includes noticing anybody standing too close to you in a queue. 'You have the right to ask anyone to stand further away from you,' says Smit.

The general rule is to stay away from any area that's dimly lit, such as stairways, and to avoid toilets in far corners of shopping centres, says Dr Annelie Rabie, managing director of Business Against Crime in the Western Cape. 'Go shopping between 10am and 3pm if at all possible,' she says.

CHANGING THE RULES
Changing rooms in shops aren't as safe as we may think they are. 'Somebody could grab your handbag while you're checking yourself out in the mirror,' says Smit. Be aware that there could be a peephole in a wall or ceiling, or another woman could be out to steal from you. 'Be alert at all times without being overly paranoid,' she says.

Some shops have unisex changing rooms. These don't always have doors with locks on the inside – some merely have curtains as a door. 'If you walk into a changing room, particularly one with curtains, and notice that both men and women are using it, go to the cubicle closest to the exit or wait until that one becomes free,' says Smit. 'If you walk past a cubicle and are pulled into it, with a hand clasped over your mouth from behind, use self-defence moves quickly. His groin is right behind you, so swing your hip to the side and hit him hard in the groin. Stamp on his foot, and when his hand moves away, shout and draw attention to yourself.'

If you feel uncomfortable for any reason, whether it is because of the shop assistants or any of the other customers, walk away from the changing area and come back later.

LOO PATROL
A public toilet is possibly when you're at your most vulnerable. You're likely to be more concerned about contracting germs from the toilet seat than about your physical safety.

If you suspect someone may have followed you into the bathroom and you're in a cubicle, get up as quickly as possible from the sitting position, says Smit. 'Stay in the cubicle until you hear the person leave. He has to come into your space to attack you.' If you do come face to face with him, 'hit his sensitive target areas while standing – and hit them with all your might.'

DON'T BE A TARGET
Don't let your guard down for a second, no matter how open or public an area is, says Smit. 'If you're walking alone, project an air of confidence, walk with purpose and appear positive.'

If you are lost and don't know your way around a mall, make your way to the information desk. 'Don't appear lost. Stay focused on where you're heading,' says Smit. 'Don't just ask somebody in a security uniform. He might be the con man and might persuade you to follow a short cut – one where he can attack you.'

Cinemas are another area where you could be attacked. 'Don't just sit down – look at the people sitting around you. Never put your bags on the floor. Instead, hold your personal belongings close to you – for example, on your lap, under your arm or between your feet on the floor,' says Smit. 'And know where your weapons are (your keys, pens, deodorant spray and nail file).'

For more information about self-defence workshops contact Sanette Smit on 02I 46I 0036 or 082 415 3960, or visit www.seIfdefence.co.za. ]]> Tue, 13 Apr 2010 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/perv-alert
No-one has the right to assault another person in any way, says police captain Elliot Sinyangana of the South African Police Service. No matter where it happens, you need to take action. Follow these measures and deter that pervert.

HANDS OFF!
'I've been groped so many times in crowded bars and clubs,' says 21-year-oId Cape Town student Melissa Arnold. 'For some reason, guys think they're entitled to touch you in clubs. When I go out with my girlfriends, at least one of us will be felt up while walking to the bar or the toilet.'

But it happens fast, she says. 'When you turn around, there are about five guys looking at you. It could have been anyone, so we usually don't fuss.'

'A woman knows when a touch is not accidental,' says Sanette Smit. There's a big difference between a fleeting, unintentional brush of the hand and a lingering, offensive grope. If it makes you feel uncomfortable or ill-treated in any way, it constitutes assault.

Sinyangana agrees. 'No-one has the right to touch your breast, bum or any other part of your body without your permission. That person can be charged with public indecency or sexual harassment.'

Smit suggests that you warn the guy that if he does it again you will hit him. 'Then if he does try it again, strike at him hard – aiming for his groin.'

Sinyangana says that while violence is never a solution, 'if you feel you're in danger, a reaction like this would amount to self-defence.'

'PUT THAT LITTLE THING AWAY!'
Flashing tends to catch you off guard – it happens so suddenly that you're initially frozen in shock and don't know how to react. You could be driving or walking to your car when a passer-by flashes you or you see a man masturbating at the side of the road.

Why do men flash? 'They do it for attention,' says Smit. He could be trying to intimidate or humiliate you. 'Mostly he gets excited just by seeing the expression on your face.'

If you are being harassed and there are other people around, don't just get up and walk away. Make a fuss, she says. Speak up so that everybody hears you and sees what he's up to. Or you could make a joke of it, like one old woman did when she poked her umbrella at a flasher's penis and said, 'Put that little thing away!'

By verbalising your anger, you're not only empowering yourself, you could also be helping others by preparing them to deal with possible similar situations, says Smit.

A guy who masturbates in public is not necessarily a rapist – but it's possible he could become one further down the line.

'It depends on the circumstances but, generally, if a person exposes himself or masturbates in front of you, you should report it,' says Sinyangana. 'Dial 10111 and give your exact location so that police can intervene immediately.'

FLASH PREVENTION
While there are no guarantees that you won't ever be targeted, there are some safety measures you can take to reduce your risk:
• Walk purposefully. Even if you're scared, pretend that you're feeling confident and strong.
• Keep away from dodgy areas. If you can't avoid going through a dangerous area, make sure you go with other people.
• If you are assaulted, try to make a mental note of the attacker's appearance. Any details – about his height, build, clothing or identifying marks such as a scar or tattoo – will help police catch him after you report the crime. ]]> Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/hijack-101
The statistics being what they are, if you live in South Africa, it's crucial that you learn not only the skills that may help you avoid being hijacked but also what to do if you are hijacked.

THE APPROACH
• If someone approaches your window with a gun, drive off fast, if possible, says Melinda Brussow of Arrive Alive's hijack-prevention-and-survival course. 'Or use your car hooter to attract attention.'
• If a hijacker (or hijackers – there's usually more than one) breaks your window, 'remain as calm as possible and comply with his demands,' says Johnston. Sanette Smit says, 'Usually, hijackers want the car more than anything else.' Your car is replaceable. You are not.
• If the hijackers think you are reaching for a weapon, they may panic and shoot. 'Keep your hands where they can be seen and unlock the door slowly,' says Johnston. 'Answer truthfully if they ask you about firearms, cellphones, PIN numbers and tracking devices. Tell them where your valuables are but don't try to get them yourself – let the hijackers do it.'
'Don't try to reason with hijackers,' says Captain Elliot Sinyangana of the SAPS. 'It might provoke them.' He recommends that you avoid eye contact – your attackers may think you are getting a good look so you can identify them later. Still, try, without being obvious, to make a mental note of what they look like. A detailed description will help police in their investigation. Once your door is open, your attackers will probably take your seat belt off and force you out of the car, says Johnston. Often you will be searched, stripped of your valuables and made to lie down. Stay put and wait for them to drive off.
• If you're in your driveway and your attackers want to come into the house, try talking your way out of the situation, says Nomathemba Mgwebile of the SAPS. 'Tell them you have dogs on the premises. Set off your alarm.' Johnston says, 'Rarely will a hijacker hang around if he already has what he came for – your car.'

IN THE CAR
• If your hijackers try to force you back into the car, fight them. Smit says, 'Even if they are armed and stab or shoot at you, you have a better chance of getting help from someone on the street who can call an ambulance and the police than if you are taken to a forest or a warehouse, where you could be raped or killed.'
• If a hijacker has forced you to stay in the car and tries to drive off with you, attack him. 'Strike the sensitive target areas on his face – the nose, eyes, ears and throat,' says Smit. 'Scratch his face and claw at his eyes. Punch at his groin. Use maximum force and speed. Don't give up.' Keeping pepper or Mace spray or sharp items in your car's glove compartment may help you in such a situation – a nail file, screwdriver, key or pen can be grabbed as a weapon. If you are still driving the vehicle, brake and jump out of the car, making sure it's safe to do so and there are no cars speeding up behind you. It's best to do this in a built-up area where you can run to a person or into a building for help.

TAKING YOUR CHANCES
If you are forced to continue driving, drive as fast as you can, says Brussow. 'This will alert people to the fact that something is wrong – for example, that you are driving a stolen or hijacked vehicle – and someone may call the police.'

Your reaction could even be more extreme, depending on how much danger you felt you'd be in if you stayed in the car. 'If I were hijacked and they succeeded in forcing me into the car and driving away with me, I'd certainly try to jump out,' says Smit. 'I know it's not safe to do so, but I believe I'd stand a better chance of surviving than if I were taken to a destination where I could be raped and possibly killed.'

It's important to remember that in any dangerous situation, often the best thing you have to rely on is your intuition. There are no definitive wrong or right actions – only what seems to be the wisest thing to do at the time to survive.

SNEAKY HIJACK TECHNIQUES
Be alert to the possibility of any of these situations and try to avoid them.
• An accident is staged where a woman on the roadside appears to be in distress. Once you get out to help her, her accomplices hijack you.
• 'A hijacker places a broken matchstick in the valve of your car's tyre so that it deflates slowly,' says Dave Johnston. He will follow you and, when you pull over, will offer assistance – then hijack you.
• 'More than one car boxes you in – the car ahead of you brakes suddenly and the car behind you is on your tail,' says Johnston. You're forced to stop, leaving you trapped and vulnerable to attack.
• A car pulls up alongside you and the occupant asks for directions. When you stop and roll down your window, you're attacked.

PREVENT IT
• Be very alert in a parking garage if you're alone, says Sanette Smit. If you see someone loitering, go back inside the main building.
• Before getting in, check whether anybody is lying behind the seats.
• 'When you leave home,' says Dave Johnston, 'check for other cars or people before you unlock the gate. Keep the ignition key in your hand when you get out of the car so no-one can jump in and drive off.'
• 'When approaching a red light, slow down gradually and avoid stopping if you can,' says Smit. 'It's more difficult to hijack a moving car,' Johnston says. 'Most hijackings happen when the car is stationary.'
• Avoid turning against the flow of traffic. By merging with traffic flowing in the same direction, you'll be surrounded by other cars and will be able to attract attention if a hijacker tries to attack you.

WHERE MOST HIJACKINGS TAKE PLACE
12% moving vehicle forced off road
13% in street just outside the driver's house
17% entering or leaving the house
15% public place (garages, car parks and open areas)
18% roadside
13% stop street
9% traffic light
3% picking up/dropping off passengers ]]> Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/shop-tactics
RETAIL JEOPARDY
According to Sanette Smit, COSMO’s self-defence expert, the most common attacks in shopping centres are handbag- and necklace-grabbing. Usually, the assailant grabs your throat or attacks you from behind, she says.

Dr Annelie Rabie-Rheeder, managing director of Business Against Crime in the Western Cape, says a typical target is a woman loaded with parcels and a huge handbag swaying behind her. ‘Pushing a loaded trolley with a swinging handbag is always an invitation for criminals, especially opportunistic youngsters,’ she says. A potential attacker could also get close to you by offering to help you off-load your shopping into your car, or a thief could snatch your handbag and parcels on a chair or on the floor while you’re having coffee.

Smit warns of the confidence style of attack. ‘For example, you find your car badly scratched,’ she says. Someone comes up to you saying the security guard has caught the offender. He then asks you to follow him to the security station where you can lay a charge. ‘You follow him and, once he has isolated you, he has his chance to attack you.’

SHOPPING LIST
Remember these pointers for safe shopping:
• According to Rabie-Rheeder; you’re most at risk of being robbed in the evening, for example if you stop at the mall on your way home from work. ‘Never shop alone after sunset,’ she says, ‘especially if you have to walk to your car in the dark or have to park in a poorly lit area.’ The safest time to shop, she says, is between 10am and 3pm on weekdays.
• Any dimly lit area is a potential danger zone. Be especially vigilant when going to toilets at the back of the shopping centre, and try not to use secluded smoking areas.
• Rabie-Rheeder suggests you carry a small handbag. Instead of walking around laden with parcels, off-load your bags into your car from time to time before continuing shopping.
• ‘Your keys must be in your hand before you reach your car,’ she says. ‘Avoid standing at your car while you scrabble in your handbag. You are distracted and therefore a tempting target.’ When you get to your car, lock your handbag in the front before unpacking your purchases into the boot.
• ‘Keep the number of the security office of your usual shopping centre saved on your cellphone,’ advises Rabie-Rheeder. Also save a family member’s number under ‘Ice’ (in case of emergency) on your cellphone. Should anything happen to you, emergency-services personnel will know to check for this number on your phone.

SOMEONE’S FOLLOWING ME...
• If you think you’re being followed, go into the first shop you see and ask the assistant to call security, says Smit. You could also try to signal to approaching people that someone is behind you.
• If someone does attack you, you should try to fight back, if you can, using your bag, a shoe or your fingernails, says Rabie-Rheeder. Shout for security staff. Try to remember details of the assailant’s face and clothes so you can give a description later.
• If you’ve been robbed, get to the security or information desk as soon as you can and ask them to call the police, says Rabie-Rheeder. Stop your cellphone and bank cards immediately. ]]> Thu, 21 Jan 2010 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/shock-spots
DANGER ZONE 1:
Car Parks
• If you drive a car, you probably need to use a car park at least once a day. ‘Thieves target car parks,’ says Constable Siphokazi Mawisa of the South African Police Service. ‘Try to park your car in secure car parks. If you know you’re going to be inside a building for a long while and most of the other cars in the car park will be gone by the time you get back, park your car as close to the entrance as you can.’ If you feel unsafe when you come out of the building, turn around, go back inside and ask a security guard to walk you to your car.
• As you’re walking back to your car, stop and do a 360-degree turn to make sure that no-one is watching or following you. ‘Be wary of people who could attack you from behind,’ says Sanette Smit, COSMO’s self-defence expert. ‘Someone could grab your handbag or pull at your necklace from behind.’
• Be watchful of anyone hanging about or offering to help you at the exit boom and card slot or at ATM units close to the parking pay meters.
• lf you regularly park in an underground car park, try to change the pattern of when you go and where you park, says Dr Annelie Rabie of Business Against Crime Western Cape.
• ‘Vary the route that you take and the time you get home,’ she advises.
• Don’t buy huge quantities of groceries in one go. ‘Your battling with a full trolley is the perfect invitation for a criminal,’ says Rabie. And remember that people are often followed home from shops.
REMEMBER: ‘The best time of the day to go shopping is between 10am and 3pm,’ says Rabie. This is usually the busiest time, when there are bound to be other shoppers around. It’s safer to be among a crowd than to go solo.

DANGER ZONE 2:
Your Car
• While you’re in your car, especially if you’re travelling alone, you’re a target for car thieves and hijackers. While it may seem fun, don’t flirt with guys in other cars, especially if there are two or more men in the car. You’re drawing unnecessary attention to yourself, which could set you up for an attack.
• ‘Thieves will not hesitate to cause an accident in order to get you out of your car,’ says Mawisa. ‘Stay in your car and call the police. Only get out to inspect any damage once the authorities have arrived.’
• Keep the phone number of a reputable towing service on your cellphone. ‘If you’re involved in an accident, a tow truck will often get there faster than the police will,’ says Smit.
• Approach a red traffic light slowly so that when it turns green, your car is still moving and you can go forwards easily, Mawisa says. ‘A moving car is more difficult to hijack than a stationary one,’ says Smit.
• Don’t leave the windows open by more than three centimetres, Smit says. And always keep all the doors of your car locked at all times, says Mawisa.
• Be alert to potential attacks by confidence tricksters. ‘For example, you could find that your car is badly scratched,’ says Smit. ‘A man walks up to you, telling you that security guards caught the person responsible for the damage to your car. He asks you to follow him to the security offices so you can lay a charge. You follow him. Once he has you isolated, he has the chance to attack.’
REMEMBER: A hijack is more about the car than anything else, says Smit. ‘If you are hijacked, put your hands up and get out of the car.’ Hand over the keys. Only fight back if you have no other choice and are sure that the hijacker is unarmed.

DANGER ZONE 3:
Familiar Streets
• It doesn’t matter where you live – whether it’s a town house in the suburbs or a flat in the CBD – you are at risk of attack anywhere.
• lf you are walking or jogging in your neighbourhood and someone tries to pull you into a vehicle, fight back and do your utmost not to get into the car, says Smit. Scream that you are being attacked, and kick and punch at your assailant, making it difficult for him to grab hold of you. ‘Should he get you into the car, try talking your way out of the situation calmly. If that fails, punch the attacker in the groin and try to escape through the door – even if it means jumping out of a moving car.
REMEMBER: If you are attacked, remain calm by concentrating on the present. Don’t start imagining what could happen; focus on getting yourself out of there alive. ‘Ask yourself: what is the surface of the floor – is it grass, ground, carpet, road or stairs? What is the attacker wearing? What are you wearing? Is the attacker armed? Did he communicate with you before he launched his assault or was it a blitz attack? Can you perhaps talk yourself out of the situation?’ says Smit. Decide which of these factors can help you in your self-defence actions.

DANGER ZONE 4:
Taxis and Public Transport
• ‘Project an air of confidence, positivity and purpose when you’re walking,’ says Smit. To a would-be attacker, someone who seems fearless is less of an easy target than someone who seems timid and unsure of herself.
• If you travel by taxi or bus, travel with a friend, suggests Rabie. If some of your co-workers travel the same route as you, try to arrange that you travel in a group, says Mawisa.
• Never get into an empty taxi or train carriage. You are an easier target if there are no witnesses around to protect you or identify the attackers later.
• Keep your handbag properly closed and on your lap, not on a seat next to you, says Smit. Should your handbag be snatched at a taxi rank, bus stop or train station, yell loudly that somebody has grabbed your bag, she says. ‘Hopefully somebody will help you. But once someone has run off with your bag, don’t run after him. He might have a group of friends waiting to attack you.’
• ‘When you are using public transport, avoid travelling with valuables, large sums of money or lots of shopping bags,’ says Mawisa. You’ll be distracted by your load and therefore not fully on guard against attack.
• Don’t forget that a fellow passenger who tries to strike up a conversation with you is also a potential attacker, says Mawisa. It’s safer to keep to yourself, especially if you’re travelling alone.
• If somebody verbally abuses you on a train or bus, remember that you can fight back, says Smit. ‘Speak up so that everybody hears you.’ Involve other passengers in the conversation. Say to someone sitting close by: ‘Can you believe this guy?’
REMEMBER: Wherever you are, if an attacker invades your space, you can use basic self-defence moves to save yourself. ‘Strike the sensitive target areas on the attacker’s body – the nose, eyes, ears, throat and groin, and then run away as quickly as possible and call for help,’ says Smit.

DANGER ZONE 5:
Your Own Home
• Try to make your home as burglarproof as possible, says Mawisa. ‘Stop burglars at their point of entry by having proper fencing, gates and doors installed. It pays to spend more on the best locks (preferably a triple-locking security gate) and a burglar-alarm system that is linked to a monitoring and armed-response service.’ Look at your home from a burglar’s point of view – how easily would you be able to break in?
• Trim or remove shrubs and trees in your garden that could help conceal potential burglars or offer a good hiding place while a burglary is under way.
• Get to know your neighbours, says Smit. They can be your best allies – but don’t broadcast your holiday plans to the entire street. ‘If you’re going away, ask a trustworthy neighbour to keep an eye on your place. If you have an armed-response service, tell them that you’ll be away and ask them to do extra visible patrols around your premises,’ says Mawisa. ‘Tell your neighbour, as well as close friends and family who might visit you, when you’ll return. Don’t leave notes for anyone outside your house, as potential burglars can read them.’
• When you go out, never leave your house key under a doormat, in a pot plant or in the post box. These spots are where criminals check first. Instead, leave a key with a neighbour or friend.
REMEMBER: Even if there has never been a burglary in your area, don’t become complacent. It’s never too late to be the first target.

For more information about self-defence workshops contact Sanette Smit on 021 461 0036 or 082 415 3960, or visit www.selfdefence.co.za. ]]> Tue, 29 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/outside-chance
WISE UP
• 'Project an air of confidence and purpose,' says Sanette Smit. 'Be ready for anything, such as people who might be hiding behind trees or sand dunes.'
• If you're listening to your iPod, don't have the music blaring so loudly that you can't hear the sounds around you, she says.
• Carry a stun gun or pepper spray – it can buy you time to escape.
• 'Don't walk close to trees or shrubs. They are possible hiding places for criminals,' says Constable Siphokazi Mawisa of the South African Police Service.
• 'Be careful of the "confidence" style of attack,' says Smit. Using this method, an attacker tries to get your trust by posing as a parks official or a fellow walker, for example. He may 'innocently' ask you for the time and – because you don't feel threatened – you let your guard down.

If you're hiking...
HIKE SMART
• Don't hike alone. If there are a few of you, your chances of defending yourselves are better.
• Wear comfortable shoes – they make it easier to run away!
• Take a walking stick with you. It can double as a weapon.
• 'Choose your route according to your fitness level, physical ability and hiking experience,' says Smit. It's dangerous to get stuck in the middle of a hike, unable to go any further because you're exhausted or lost.
• Don't go off the known track or take unfamiliar short cuts.
• Take note of any landmarks along the way so you can tell emergency-services personnel where you are if you get lost, injured or attacked.
• Make sure you have a charged cellphone with you and save any relevant rescue numbers on it. (See 'Important info'.)

If you're going to the beach...
BE SHORE-SAFE
• It's okay to go to the beach alone,' says Smit. 'Just make sure you stick to beaches that aren't isolated or empty.'
• It's safer to park close to the beach,' says Smit. 'Avoid areas where there are lots of bushes or where you can be boxed in – such as a cul-de-sac.' And don't linger longer to enjoy the sunset unless you can walk back to your car with someone you know.
• You may be dying to flaunt your brand-new Swarovski-encrusted cellphone – but this is not the place to show it off. Leave your valuables at home and don't leave your belongings unattended.
• If you spot someone swiping a cellphone or handbag, 'make a big noise about it,' says Smit. 'Lifeguards usually have walkie-talkies, and will be able to call the police immediately.'

GET HELP
• If you need help but the battery of your cellphone is running flat or the signal is weak, send an SMS to someone who can help you. (SMSs require less battery power and signal strength than a phone call does.)
• If you are attacked, shout for help as loudly as possible and use anything you can as a weapon – pick up a rock, for example, or sand to throw in your attacker's eyes. If you can, run – preferably towards an area where there are other people around.

IMPORTANT INFO
Save these numbers on your phone in case you need help
* National Tourism Information and Safety Line 083 123 2345
* Cape Town Mountain Rescue Services 021 948 9900
* General emergency services (from a cellphone) 112
* General emergency service (from a landline) 107
Useful websites
* www.nature-reserve.co.za
* www.crimeprevention.csir.co.za
* www.samountainmag.com
]]> Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/the-rape-escape
In any attack situation, you need to move really fast, says Sanette Smit. 'Your attacker could be intending to rape you. Your response should be immediate, sharp and powerful.' And remember, the point is that you get away as quickly as possible. If you think he's trying to rape you, these are the moves to use.



OPTION 1

1. He's got you on your back and his hands are clasped around your neck. Cross your feet at the ankles and lock your knees together.


2. Cross your arms at the wrist with your outer arm over his arm. Grip his throat or clutch onto his top, making an X.


3. Quickly pedal your feet around to move yourself away from him, your hands still clutching his throat or top.


4. When you've pedaled around 180°, use all your strength to pull his body down. Then use your body weight to flip him over, and in this way bring yourself up to a sitting position.


5. As you sit up – one hand still on his top or throat – quickly lift your free arm high in the air and make a fist.


6. Twist towards him and bring your right elbow down hard into his face. He should loosen his grip, giving you time to get away.

OTHER OPTIONS
When he's got you on your back and is hovering over you, try one of these options, or all of them:

  
1. Cup your hands, keeping your fingers together, and swing your arms out to the sides. Bring you arms back fast, hitting against both his ears with the palms of your hands. This should burst his eardrums and cause him extreme pain.


2. Make a fist and punch him in the nose.


3. You could also use your thumbs to poke him in the eyes.


4. Clutch his groin and twist and pull his package with all your might. If he's wearing tight pants, punch his groin hard.


5. Poke your index finger hard into the area above the hollow spot in his throat (just below his Adam's apple).

All these moves are designed to buy you some time to get away as quickly as possible.

*If you spot the man in these pictures, please do not attack him. He is COSMO's fun, fearless and decidedly non-lethal former designer Chris Havenga, who agreed to be photographed in the name of promoting safety. ]]> Fri, 02 Oct 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/atm-crime-alert BEFORE YOU BANK
• 'Your eyes are your first tool of self-defence,' says Sanette Smit, COSMO's self-defence expert. 'Look out for people or cars close to the ATM.'
• Be alert at an ATM if the surrounding ones are out of order.
• ATMs in shopping centres are often in secluded corners or on the bottom floor of the mall, says Smit. Only use them at busy times when there are people around.
• Never leave your car ignition running or doors unlocked while you quickly run to an outside ATM.
• Keep your daily card limit as low as possible to reduce the amount that can be withdrawn if your card is stolen, says Pierre Steyn, managing director of the South African Banking Risk Information Centre.
• Set up Internet banking. You can see when fraudulent trans¬actions are made early on, instead of waiting for your monthly bank statement.
• Use debit and petrol cards to avoid carrying a lot of cash. Cash cannot be recovered but cards can be cancelled.
• Don't respond to unsolicited e-mails that require your bank¬ account number or personal details, even if you do bank with that institution.
• Don't tell anyone your PIN number.

WHILE YOU'RE BANKING
• 'While you're using the ATM, ignore all distractions, such as people asking for help at the next ATM,' says Smit. While you look away, your card can be swapped.
• Check that you leave the ATM with your own card.
• Put your money away as soon as it comes out of the machine. Count your notes later and keep the receipt – you don't want anyone picking it up and seeing what transactions you've made.
• Be conscious of your body language. 'You need to appear strong and confident,' says Smit.
• If you notice anything suspicious, cancel your trans¬action and leave,' says Inspector Bernadine Steyn of the South African Police Service. Should anyone fol¬low you after you've made a transaction, go to a crowded area or into the nearest shop.
• Try not to use ATMs at night. If you must, take a friend with you.
• If you are attacked from behind while using an ATM,' says Smit, 'grab his groin and twist and pull, or hit him with your elbow.'
• If somebody in front of you is attacked and you're trained in self-defence, help the person, says Smit. However, if the attacker is armed or seems to have accomplices nearby, assess the situation carefully. In this case, it might be better to hand over your cash and belongings.

For more information about self-defence workshops, call Sanette Smit on (021) 461 0036 or 082 415 3960, or visit www.selfdefence.co.za.

WISE UP ON THE LATEST ATM SCAMS:
A small object (such as a paperclip or piece of cardboard) is inserted into the card slot so that, when you push your card in, it appears to get swallowed, though really it's stuck. Then various scenarios are possible.
The criminal, seeing your distress, offers to call the bank from his cell phone. But the 'bank official' you reach is in fact an accomplice who asks for your PIN number to cancel the card. You leave the ATM, mistakenly thinking your account has been closed. The criminal then retrieves the card with a pair of tweez¬ers and can draw money from your account.
Or the criminal pretends to be a bank official who has come to help you because your card has been 'swallowed'. He tells you to key in your PIN number and then press 'cancel' to close the account. He will have seen your number and, when you leave, be able to use it with the card retrieved from the slot.
Sometimes nobody needs to ask for your PIN number. Instead, a home-made card reader is taped to the card slot with a white tube – which is actually a camera pointing towards the keypad. If you move away, assuming your card has been swallowed, the crim¬inal can retrieve it and get your PIN number from the camera.

LOST-CARD EMERGENCY NUMBERS:
Absa: 0800 111 155
Nedbank: 0800 110 929
FNB: 0800 110 132
Standard Bank: (0II) 241-1111
]]> Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/work-it-like-a-warrior
STRANGER DANGER
Whether you work in a large or small office environment, you may come into contact with different people, many of them strangers. To avoid standing out as a target for crime, keep your valuables out of sight, says Inspector Bernadine Steyn of the South African Police Service. 'Keep your wallet, keys, cell phone, iPod and valuables locked in your desk drawer or in a locker,' she says.
Take note of any new faces you see in and around your office, says Sanette Smit. If you see someone out of place, ask them who they are visiting and offer to help them find that person. Should you feel uneasy for any reason, inform security or management about your suspicions.
'If you get into a lift with an unfamiliar person, stand near the control panel,' says Steyn, so you can press the emergency button if you feel scared. 'Make sure someone knows where you are if you'll be coming in late or when you're going out to lunch or a meeting,' she says.
Be alert on fire escapes and in toilets, especially if they are isolated or poorly lit. Attackers can hide in cubicles or corners. 'Don't go to an isolated toilet by yourself,' says Steyn. 'Go with a colleague or wait until someone you know enters with you.'

SOLO ACT
Owning a business is liberating, yes, but it also brings a whole new set of safety risks. Have a security gate and alarm system fitted to your premises, and ask your security company to patrol outside the building, at certain times. For example, if you get to work alone early in the mornings, ask the security company to send someone to meet you as you arrive. If you can, arrange for a towing firm to park at your premises while the driver is waiting to respond to a call.
If you pay your workers in cash, always take someone with you to withdraw the money.
The best strategy, says Smit, is to learn basic self-defence. 'Women can't always have someone with them. You may work late, drive alone in your car late at night, go to gym early in the morning or live alone.' You need to have confidence in your ability to defend yourself – and to live your life fearlessly.

SITTING PRETTY... CONFIDENT
If someone enters your workspace while you're seated at your desk, keep the desk between you and him, says Smit.
Stand up while he's talking. You'll appear more confident, and the desk provides a barrier between you and him, giving you time to plan your defence if he attacks.
Look around your desk for an easy-to¬ grab weapon, such as a pen, a vase or even the computer keyboard, says Smit. Don't throw anything at him – you may miss. Wait till he's within arm's reach, then aim something sharp or heavy at his throat, eyes or groin. Hit him with all your might and don't be afraid to hurt him. That's the point.
]]> Mon, 31 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/safe-trip
BEFORE YOU LEAVE
• Make sure your car is roadworthy. That way you're less likely to find yourself stranded (and vulnerable) on the side of the road. 'Take a dependable car and have it properly serviced,' says manager of AA Driver Training Dave Johnston.
• Buy a map book and plan your route before you leave, making sure you avoid any areas that are known to be dangerous.
• 'Carry certified copies of your ID and other important documents in your handbag,' says Sanette Smit, COSMO's self-defence expert. 'Leave your originals at home.'
• Take a spare car key with you. Store it in a magnetic case somewhere on the outside of the car, such as behind a bumper or inside a hubcap, says Johnston – useful if you lock your keys in the car or you're mugged and your keys are stolen.
• Find out the police and emergency numbers for the areas you will be visiting and store them in your cellphone.

ON THE ROAD
• Smit suggests you keep the following self-defence items in your handbag: pepper spray, a screwdriver and a pen. 'Naturally you should keep your wits about you,' she says. 'Use your intuition and stay alert.'
• Johnston advises you keep basic tools in the car in case you get a flat tyre. And ensure that you always carry your car manual in the cubbyhole.
• Try to keep to major routes or toll roads, says Johnston. If you find yourself in trouble, it'll be easier for you to tell rescue services where to find you.
• Tell someone back home your route, even if you only give them a vague outline, for example: 'Tomorrow we'll be travelling between Knysna and Plett.'
• As much as road trips are meant to be fun and spontaneous, resist the temptation to stop at a dam and go skinny-dipping. Leaving your car and keys unattended while you're in the water makes you vulnerable.
• 'If you have a breakdown, phone an emergency service. If it's a girls-only road trip, tell them that,' says Smit. 'If people stop to help you, politely tell them that help is on the way. Don't get into a car with strangers.'
• Be suspicious of people appearing to need help on the side of the road. This can be a ruse by hijackers to get you to stop. Instead of risking it, phone an emergency service and say you've seen someone who seems to be stuck.

STAYING OVER
• When stopping somewhere for the night, it's safer to stay in a chalet than in a tent, says Smit. A tent can easily be ripped open or pushed over but you can lock yourself and your valuables inside a chalet.
• If you plan to stay in a B&B, book your accommodation before you leave. This leaves time to check that it is located in a safe area.
• Try not to look like a tourist – it could mark you as an easy and lucrative target for mugging. Don't carry your camera conspicuously or leave maps lying visible on your car seat.
For information about self-defence, visit www.selfdefence.co.za. ]]> Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/intruder-alert
UP YOUR SECURITY
The rate of reported residential burglaries in 2007 went down by 7%. Encouraging, yes, but hardly reassuring, considering that the incidence of reported burglaries in 2007/2008 was 237 853 cases. Don't become part of the statistics. Start by having a reliable alarm system installed and advertise its existence with a large sign outside.

'The first step to keeping unwelcome visitors out is to lock them out – with proper fencing, gates and doors as the first obstacle,' says spokesperson Nomathemba Mgwebile of the South African Police Service. Install the best locks you can afford. 'If you put in a security gate, make sure that it cannot be easily forced or broken open. A triple-locking gate is one of the most difficult to break,' she says.

To prevent entry via windows, install a key lock, says Mgwebile. 'Burglar bars should be installed in conjunction with a burglar-alarm system that is linked to a monitoring and arm-response service.' This may sound extreme, but burglar bars and an alarm system go a long way towards discouraging burglars.

Always activate the alarm when you leave the house, even if you're only going a short distance away and for a short time. It's also advisable to install panic buttons in bedrooms and elsewhere in the house.
Set up a 'safe room' in your house – even if it's only a wardrobe with a dead bolt on the inside of the door. This will be your hiding spot if an intruder gets into your home. Work out an emergency system and have exit routes planned to get you and other occupants out of your home to safety.

IN HARMS WAY
So what do you do if you suspect there's a burglar in your house? 'First don't panic,' says Sanette Smit. Stay very quiet and assess how much danger you're in. Where exactly is the noise coming from? Try to figure out how many burglars there are. Don't draw attention to yourself. As long as they think they're alone in the house, you should be safe. If you're sure they haven't seen you, get out, and then call the police.

If there's no escape route, stay in the room you're in and block the entrance. (Push tables and chairs against the door.) Push the panic button, or phone the police and your security company.

If you're cornered in a room, try to talk your way out of the situation. The burglar is out to steal from you and not necessarily to attack you – don't stop him taking anything, no matter how valuable. 'Oblige him – tell him where to find whatever he asks for. You can replace your valuables but not your life,' says Mgwebile. You must decide, depending on the circumstances, whether or not you're going to fight back. Assess the situation carefully, says Smit. Don't resist unless you are absolutely sure it will lead to your escape. Only if he attacks you first and you feel physically able to defend yourself should you strike back. If your instincts tell you to resist physically, do not hold back ¬fight with all your strength.

If you wake up to find a burglar in your room, pretend to be asleep. The sooner he gets what he wants, the sooner he'll leave. Work out a system with your partner and decide whether or not you'll wake each other up in such a situation. Remember – any sudden movement will startle the burglar and he could attack or fire at you.

IF YOU DECIDE TO FIGHT BACK:
If he is within striking distance, target his sensitive areas, says Smit, such as the nose, ears, throat, eyes and groin.
Look around for objects to defend yourself with. If you're in the kitchen, for example, grab a sharp knife. If in the bathroom, use your razor to slash him or throw mouthwash in his eyes. Be inventive. Any heavy object can be used to knock him over the head – but don't let him get hold of it instead. Once you're sure he's down, get away immediately.
'If circumstances indicate that you shouldn't resist, concentrate on noting the physical description of your attacker so you can identify him later,' says Mgwebile. Pay attention to his height and build, clothing and voice. Look out for distinguishing physical features such as tattoos, scars or a limp.

HOUSE RULES
Make your house look occupied at all times. If you know you'll be out late, leave a light on and a radio or television playing. 'When you go on holiday, inform the police and your alarm-response service, and ask for extra, visible patrols. Also inform them when you will return,' says Mgwebile. Ask a friend or neighbour to collect your mail if you'll be away from home for an extended period. 'Don't leave notes for family or friends outside your house, as potential burglars might read them too,' she says. 'Don't leave keys in hiding places outside your house.' A burglar will be able to think of any hiding place that you can.
Get canine protection. A large, barking dog tends to put potential burglars off or will at least slow them down.
Do your gardening. 'Remove shrubs or trees that could hide someone while he's waiting to break into your home,' says Mgwebile.
When you have repairs done of any kind, check workers' identification. It's quite common for burglaries to happen a few weeks after workmen have spent time in your home. If you're nervous, have the locks changed.
Display as little information about yourself as possible in your home, says Mgwebile. Photographs are fine, but don't leave things such as spare keys hanging in accessible places or write your work phone number in a very visible spot, for example, near a window. 'A potential burglar lurking outside may phone that number to make sure you're at work before trying to break in,' she says.
'Join your local-community police forum and Crime Watch to stay up to date with crime in your area,' says police captain Elliot Sinyangana. 'And ask your local police to give you security advice on how to improve your safety at home.'

]]> Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/trigger-happy
If you haven't already been a victim of crime, you probably know someone who has. You may even have considered arming yourself with a gun. And seeing the latest crime figures (more than 225 000 reported assault cases alone in 2005), your fears may be justified.

CALL TO ARMS
Having a gun may give you a feeling of security, but you need to ask yourself whether you would be willing to pull the trigger if you were attacked.

Having a gun can put you at greater risk. A 1998 crime study in Alexandra and Bramley (both in Gauteng) found that only 22% of armed victims of assault had the nerve to use their guns at the moment of attack. In a survey by the South African Gun Control Alliance of female victims of gun violence, most said they wouldn't choose to own a gun themselves. They felt there was a bigger chance of the gun being turned on them than of them using it in self-defence. 'It's true that a gun may not always work in your favour,' says Lisa Vetten, researcher and policy analyst at the Tshwaranang Legal Advocacy Centre in Johannesburg. Chances are your attacker has experience in using a firearm and you don't. The 1998 crime study found that 78% of guns stolen were taken during a crime, and then used against the victims.

'If you are skilled in self-defence, first try to take on your attacker physically,' says Sanette Smit, COSMO's self-defence expert, who recommends self-defence over using a gun. 'Fighting back will give you a very good chance of getting out of the situation,' she says. However, if you feel safer with a firearm, it's your decision, she says. Take into consideration, though, that firing at an intruder and missing may only anger him more.

LEGAL EYE
It's important to note that, even if you're a registered gun owner, you cannot simply shoot at a burglar. 'For a murder to be regarded as self-defence by the law, the action should yield defence proportional to the threat,' says Vetten. For example, if you were to arrive home and find an intruder seated in your living room, you would have no grounds to fire at him because he poses no physical threat to your safety. 'There must be an imminent threat, such as him coming towards you,' she says. In a reported case, a woman shot her estranged husband in the back as he was leaving her house. Her action did not qualify as self-defence, because he wasn't threatening her.

LICENSED TO KILL
You can register a firearm (or renew your licence) at any police station. Civilians are allowed to own up to 12 firearms. When a firearm is lost or stolen, this feeds the spread of illegal weapons. From 1994 to 2001, the number of lost or stolen guns peaked at 184 328. But when the government launched a firearm amnesty in 2005, only 58 388 illegal weapons were surrendered.

IF YOU DECIDE TO GET A GUN…
Do your research. Some firearms come with excellent security features (to prevent accidental shooting), while others don't.

Understand how it works before you handle it. Take a gun-safety course where you'll learn about the different parts of the gun, how to load and unload bullets, safety features, and how to aim and fire a gun.

Keep it unloaded when it's not in use – but always treat it as though it were locked.

Never show it off or share it with anyone. Better yet, don't let anyone know that you have a firearm, apart from the people who live with you.

Understand that owning a firearm is a big responsibility. 'You need to be sensible, reliable and trustworthy,' says Vetten.

]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/dont-fall-for-it
'Women are raised to be helpful, so they don't generally suspect that they could be led into an attack scenario when someone who "seems nice" asks for their assistance,' says Sanette Smit, COSMO's self-defence expert. That's why the confidence style of attack is so popular. A man first speaks to you politely to gain your trust before launching into an attack. 'The danger is that, because the would-be attacker doesn't approach you in a threatening manner, he catches you off guard,' she says. 'Because you don't feel threatened, you're at ease and relaxed – the perfect setup for rape.'

ALL SMILES
'Usually, this kind of attacker asks for your help. He'll approach you in a kind, non-threatening way,' says Smit. He may come to your house and ask for directions, or he could stop you in the supermarket and ask for help with choosing something. Later, in the parking lot, he may come closer and, recognising him from earlier, you let down your guard. 'Another possible scenario: you spot the same man jogging past you every morning, and each day you greet each other,' says Smit. 'In this way, he's gained your trust and you may even feel that you know him.'

PLAN OF ACTION
'The minute you recognise a potential confidence-style attack, redirect,' says Smit. So if he arrives at your door and needs to use the phone urgently, redirect him by telling him it is out of order and he should try the public phone down the street. If he asks you the way to somewhere, redirect him by telling him that you don't live in the area… tell him to ask the man across the road. 'If he launches into an attack, hit the body target areas that are closest to you, preferably the eyes and groin,' says Smit.


TYPICAL SCENARIOS
According to Smit, these three examples of attacks are common:

1. A well-respected (possibly married) male colleague rapes you one night while the two of you are alone in the office.
Without being alarmist, the reality is that any time you're alone with a man, there is the possibility of rape, says Smit. Once you sense the energy between you changing, try to talk your way out of the situation, and make an excuse to leave. If he does attack you, act quickly. 'Avoid negotiating in your head,' says Smit. 'You need all of your energy to deal with the attack, so avoid thinking things such as, "Why is he doing this to me? He knows me. What have I done wrong?'' And don't blame yourself,' she says. Don't feel bad, just because you know him, about hurting him. After all, he is trying to rape you.

2. While walking alone, you're attacked by a stranger. Seeing your distress, another man comes to your defence, scaring the assailant away. He offers to take you to the police station and, scared and vulnerable, you trust the man who has just rescued you. Abusing this confidence, he rapes you.
'The chances are that a woman in this situation would genuinely believe that she was going to be helped,' says Smit. 'It's just an example of the lengths to which a rapist using the confidence pattern will go.' She suggests that you target his face and groin, punching and kicking as hard as you can.

3. You're waiting for the lift to reach your floor. When it opens, there's a man inside alone. He politely asks, 'Going up or down?' As you enter the lift, you reply, 'Down please.' Once the door has closed, he pushes the basement button and grabs you by the throat, pushing you against the side of the lift. Once you reach the basement, he rapes you.
To prevent this scenario, when the lift door opens, ask yourself whether you trust the person inside enough to be alone with him. 'Better yet, don't get into the lift at all,' says Smit. 'Rather say: "It's okay, you go – I'm waiting for a friend." If you get into the lift and realise it was a mistake, push the buttons for all the floors. The lift doors will open on every floor, making it difficult for your attacker to continue.'

]]> Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/dont-be-blind-sided
BEFORE YOU SAY YES
Find out as much as you can about your date before you agree to meet. Watch out for inconsistencies or contradictions in what he says about himself – these could indicate he's not being honest.
Ask for a photo. According to dating website www.match.com, if he makes excuses about why you can't see a photo, it is possible that he has something to hide.
Until you're sure you can trust him, be careful what information you share. You may let things slip, such as shops or clubs you go to regularly. Don't reveal personal details such as your surname, street address or place of work.
Arrange to meet him in a public place, such as a busy restaurant. Ideally you should arrange a lunch date, so you have the excuse of returning to work afterwards. If you're meeting at night, never agree to meet first at his place – or yours.

BEFORE YOU GO
Let a friend know where you'll be going, what time you plan on getting home and how she can contact you. Also give her your date's name and contact number.
Ask her to phone you an hour into the date to give you a possible escape strategy.
You could also ask her to meet you at the venue after the date. That way your date can leave before you do, eliminating the risk that he will follow you home.

ON THE DATE
Get to the venue in your own car and leave on your own.
First impressions count. 'Trust your intuition,' says COSMO's self-defence expert Sanette Smit. 'Your gut instinct is seldom wrong.' If you get the feeling something isn't right, make an excuse and leave.
Don't drink too much. 'You need to be in control of your senses at all times,' says police superintendent Elliot Sinyangana of the Police Service (SA). Protect yourself against the possibility of your drink being spiked. 'Keep an eye on your drink,' says Smit. If you're in a bar, order your drinks from a waiter or get them yourself. If you leave the table to use the cloakroom, she advises, finish your drink first and take your handbag with you.
There is, of course, the possibility that you will have instant chemistry between you and want to go somewhere else, such as a club or even back to his place. But if at any time you feel uncomfortable or threatened, leave. 'Don't worry about being polite,' says Smit. 'Remember that your personal safety is the first priority,' says Sinyangana.
Don't forget to have fun! Don't go expecting the worst – but do keep your safety in mind at all times.

IF THINGS GO WRONG
Don't feel obliged to stay if you feel awkward. If you're really scared, excuse yourself, say you're going to the bathroom and leave through a back entrance. 'Never worry or feel embarrassed about your behaviour,' say the experts at www.match.com. 'Your safety is much more important than one person's opinion of you.'
'If he tries to overpower you, grab his groin and twist. If he attacks you from behind, use your elbow and hit with all your might,' says Smit. It's important that you get away immediately. ]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/sun-sand-and-safety
PARK SMART
'It's always safer – and more convenient – to park close to your destination,' says COSMO's self-defence expert, Sanette Smit. But what if it's the most scorching Saturday of the summer, everybody's on the beach and there's not a parking space in sight? 'Avoid parking in areas that aren't well lit at night or have many bushes, or where you can be boxed in – for example, a cul-de-sac,' warns Smit. And if you do linger longer to enjoy the sunset, make sure you walk back to your car with a friend.

ME-TIME
'It's okay to go to the beach alone,' says Smit. 'Just make sure you stick to beaches that aren't isolated.' Choose a beach that is well populated – Camps Bay rather than Noordhoek in Cape Town, for example.

Captain Khumiso Seketema of the South African Police Service points out that preparation is important. If you are going to a beach that you are unfamiliar with, 'talk to the lifeguards or guesthouse owners to find out about crime in the area,' he says.

If someone does try to attack you, 'grab a handful of sand and throw it in your attacker's eyes, then run away as quickly as possible', says Smit. If you're walking, it's a good idea to hold sand in your hand – this way you'll be prepared if an attacker surprises you, she says.

STASH IT, DON'T FLASH IT!
You may have a brand-new Swarovski-encrusted cellphone that you're dying to flaunt – but now is not the time to show it off. Leave your valuables at home. 'Take your old cell phone to the beach and leave the new one at home,' says Smit. And most importantly, always check that your battery is fully charged in case you need to use it in an emergency.

If you do have valuables on you and are worried about leaving them in the car, go to the nearest police station. 'Talk to the station's commander and ask to have your things looked after,' says Seketema. 'This is possible at every police station in SA.'

And what if you fancy a dip but don't want to leave your bag alone? 'Asking someone you don't know to look after your things can be risky – but it's even riskier leaving them under your towel without anybody keeping an eye on them for you,' says Smit.

BE ALERT
'Many of the more popular beaches are patrolled by the police, especially around the holidays,' says Seketema. But this does not mean you should let your guard down.

'If you see a suspicious group of people, count how many of them there are,' says Smit. And if you notice later that one or two of them are no longer with the group, watch your back. 'Always trust your intuition – if you feel uncomfortable or sense danger, leave the area immediately.' Smit also warns of the 'confidence attack', in which the potential attacker sets up his victim through communication – for example, by asking for the time. Once you're distracted and off guard, he attacks. Be alert if anyone approaches you.

MAKE THE CALL
If you notice someone swiping a cellphone or bag, 'always make a noise about it', says Smit. 'Lifeguards have walkie-talkies to communicate and will be able to call the police immediately.' Seketema also suggests having the number of the nearest police station saved on your phone.
]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2009 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/after-dark-safety
CLUB TACTICS
* 'Get your own drinks,' says COSMO's self-defence expert Sanette Smit. 'Do not accept drinks from a stranger – they could be spiked. Do not leave your drink on the table when dancing. It makes it very easy for someone to spike it.'

* 'It is advisable not to get drunk at clubs,' says police superintendent Elliot Sinyangana. 'You need to be in control of your senses. How can you be in control of the situation if you are not in control of yourself?' If you are planning to drink, though, make sure that you stay with your friends. Ask your designated driver to keep an eye out for creepy men.

* 'If a guy says he needs to talk to you but the music is too loud and you must go outside, take your friends with you or don't go at all,' says Smit. 'Many gang rapes are set up like this.'

DRIVE TIME
* 'Trust your intuition at all times,' says Smit. 'This applies to any time of the day and night. Your gut instinct is seldom wrong.'

* 'Try to avoid driving alone late at night,' says Sinyangana. If you must, though, do not come to a complete stop at traffic lights. 'Approach intersections slowly,' says Smit. 'If the lights are red, pause and look around to make sure that no cars are coming, then move on.'

* 'When you arrive home, reverse into your driveway so that you can escape quickly should someone approach you,' says Sinyangana. 'If you notice someone suspicious hanging around your house, rather drive past and contact your local police station.'

* 'If you jog before or after work, be wary of the 'confidence' style of attack,' says Smit. 'This is when the same man jogs past you every morning using the same route as you. He greets you and you get used to seeing him. You may even feel safe having him around. This could cause you to let your guard down. Don't. 'If he's a possible attacker or rapist, he'll have gained your confidence, enabling him to attack when you least expect it.'

KEEP IN MIND
* 'Each attack situation is different, which means that you need to be prepared for any scenario,' says Smit. 'I believe that fighting back will give you a very good chance of survival, because most men do not expect women to fight back. However, only you can assess the tactics that are the most appropriate in the situation. Ask yourself: what is the surface of the floor – is it grass, ground, carpet, road or stairs? What is the attacker wearing? What are you wearing? Which angle is the attack coming from? Does he have a weapon or not?'

* 'If the attacker is in range, for example if he grabs your throat, hit his sensitive areas – the nose, throat, ears, eyes and groin are good target areas to strike,' says Smit. 'Use your maximum power and speed when striking. Be committed and don't give up. Keep going until you have succeeded.'

For more information about self-defence workshops, phone Sanette Smit on (021) 461-0036 or 082 415 3960, or visit www.selfdefence.co.za.
]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/keep-safe-in-your-car
BEFORE YOU START DRIVING

* Plan your route in advance and always keep a road map in your car so you can find your way back to somewhere safe if you get lost.
* 'In parking garages, check for people standing around aimlessly and be on the alert for any swift movement coming towards you,' says Sanette Smit, COSMO's self-defence expert.
* On your way to your car, don't speak on your cellphone or fiddle in your handbag. If you're distracted, you're an easier target for attack.
* Smit says you shouldn't park in isolated garages or deserted parking lots. Try to park near entrances and security stations.
* When using enclosed parking, keep your parking ticket in your bag and remember to pay when you leave the mall. Make sure you are not being followed as you exit the shopping centre.
* Get into the habit of reversing into parking bays. This makes for a speedier exit and affords better visibility, enabling you to plan your escape more easily if a potential attacker approaches you, says driver-training manager Dave Johnston of the Automobile Association.
* Have your key ready in your hand when approaching your car. 'This could be used as a weapon if clutched in your fist with the key portion sticking out between your fingers,' says Johnston.
* 'Store your handbag in the boot of your car or behind your legs,' says Smit.
* 'When you get into your car, check for anyone lying behind the seats,' says Smit.
* Have your car serviced regularly and make sure you always have enough petrol in your tank. Every three months, check that your spare tyre is properly inflated and roadworthy.



ON THE ROAD

* Fasten your seat belt and lock all your doors. Don't leave the windows open more than 5cm (about three fingers).
* 'Be extra vigilant at stop streets,' says Smit. Slow down early and approach traffic lights with caution. Pace yourself in traffic and try not to come to a complete stop.
* 'Stop about one car's length from the vehicle in front of you to give you enough space to manoeuvre out in an emergency,' advises Nomathemba Mgwebile, spokesperson for the South African Police Service.
* If you are stopped by a traffic officer, ask to see identification, especially if the person is not in uniform.
* Be wary of people loitering at traffic lights, as they can distract you while others execute a hijack. If you are approached, drive away quickly. And pay no attention to people indicating that there is something wrong with your car.
* Go with your gut instinct, says Smit. If you feel you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station.
* If your car breaks down, use your cellphone to call for help and switch your hazard lights on. Don't accept help from strangers.
* 'If you are bumped softly from behind by another vehicle and feel uncomfortable with the other driver, don't stop. Rather head for the nearest police station,' says Mgwebile.
]]> Thu, 13 Nov 2008 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/roadtripping-across-the-border Automobile Association South Africa (AA) offers helpful advice and handy tips for your trip.

NAMIBIA
*In a country that has the world's biggest sand dunes and is the second less densely populated country in the world, the availability of petrol and diesel is good. According to AA, unleaded fuel is usually available in the larger city centres.
*'Restrictions apply to the quantity of fish permitted to be exported per vehicle,' says AA. Persons over the age of 18 have a duty-free allowance of 400 cigarettes, two litres of wine and one litre of other alcoholic beverages including spirits.
*The Namibian Tourism Board says South African citizens do not need visas when entering the country. You will, however, need a valid passport. Credit cards, travelers' cheques and the South African Rand are all accepted as well.
*Some border posts have payment offices and others not, and we advise you check by calling the tourism board.

BOTSWANA
* 'Food may only be imported if it is for immediate and personal consumption,' says the automobile association. 'Meat and dairy products may not be imported at all.'
*Motorised boats require an aquatic certificate. For more information about this, contact AA Travel Services.
* 'Only the local currency [pula] or US dollars are accepted to buy fuel,' says AA. The Botswana Consulate General agrees, but says it is wise to convert your cash to pula as no rands will be accepted. Travelers' cheques are welcome at the major city centres though.

MOZAMBIQUE
*Fuel is available in the major cities, but the price is controlled by the government.
*There are limitations on the amount of alcoholic beverages you may import.
*The country has very strict policies on warning triangles in vehicles, says AA. Should your vehicle break down, touring triangles (yellow diamond on blue background) must be displayed on the front of the towing vehicle and the rear of your vehicle.
*According to Mozambique Tourism, South African citizens do not need visas if their stay is less than 30 days. The local currency is the metical, but the rand is accepted. You are also not allowed to take photographs of official buildings.
*'At the border, insist that visas and passports are stamped on entry,' says AA.

Each country has their own set of border crossing rules and regulations. The tips above are not exhaustive, and we strongly advise you to contact the respective tourism offices for more information so you can make the most of your cross-border road trip.

Namibia: 09 264 61 290 6000
Botswana: 09 267 395 3024
Mozambique: 011 803 9296
]]> Tue, 11 Nov 2008 12:00 +0200 http://www.cosmopolitan.co.za//BodynSoul/KicksButt/keep-safe-on-campus
STAND YOUR GROUND

'Self-defence is a practical, effective and accessible form of protection that empowers women,' says COSMO's self-defence expert Sanette Smit. 'By knowing the basics, you can drastically increase your chance of survival in a potentially life-threatening situation.'

Along with self-defence techniques, the following common-sense rules will help you to protect yourself:

* Walk with your head high and shoulders pulled back. A posture that says you are confident and assertive makes you a less likely choice for potential attackers.
* Always carry pepper spray. Keep it in your hand so you don't have to fumble for it in your bag.
* 'Pay attention to body language at all times – both your own and that of others,' says Smit. 'Just by staying alert you can prevent a harmful situation.'
* Be extra vigilant on stairwells and in isolated or poorly lit areas.
* When it comes to avoiding sexual assault, don't worry about being polite. Know what your sexual limits are and communicate them clearly. 'Even if he is a friend, be clear about how far you're willing to go,' says Busi Dhlamini of Life Line Southern Africa.
* Smit says that if you are attacked, you should maintain eye contact with your assailant. This will scare him off, as you'll be able to identify him afterwards.
* 'Catch your assailant off-guard and act quickly,' says Smit. The attacker isn't going to wait while you decide which technique to use.
* 'Hit what you're aiming for. Your shots should inflict pain, not merely tick him off,' says Smit.

HOME TURF

Staying in a residence presents a whole new set of risks. 'Here prevention is better than cure,' says Dhlamini. 'Form support groups and have open discussions about issues such as rape and violence against women. That way, everyone will feel empowered and free to speak out should they be assaulted.'

Use the following methods to make your res safer:

* 'Get to know the people on your floor,' advises Smit. 'That way you'll notice if someone is out of place.' When you see someone you don't know, ask questions like, 'I've never seen you around before, are you new here?' or, 'Can I help you find someone?' Then report any suspicious people to security immediately.
* When you leave your room, don't leave messages on your door about when you will return. And never leave sexually suggestive messages on your phone.
* Says Smit: 'Never compromise your safety for a roommate who asks you to leave the door unlocked.'
* Report any obscene or threatening phone calls immediately as well as unusual or dangerous 'orientation' rituals.
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