University of Central Oklahoma
TUESDAY November 22, 1994
The Student Voice Since 1903
Self defense seminar held at UCO Students have opportunity to learn how to avoid being victimized By Sheila Nunnelee
Staff Writer parking lot is dark as she walks alone to her car. She stands at her alone car door digging in her purse for her keys, and then gets into the driver's seat without a single thought. If this scenario is familiar to the female students on campus, perhaps they should have attended the self-defense seminar last Thursday night. "Taking simple precautions are the keys to protecting yourself," said Matt Niles, a firstdegree black belt and Hwa Rang Do instructor who led the seminar. Niles, a student and cadet in ROTC at OSU, has trained for eight years. "You need to be aware of your surroundings," said Niles. "The more you think about it and prepare, the better the situation will be," said Niles. Niles was outraged by the self-defense techniques recommended for women by law enforcement. After doing research, he put together a packet of tips for women that he thought was more realistic. "I wanted to teach something that they can pick up easily," said Niles. Sarah Borton, Niles' girlfriend who assisted in the demonstration of the techniques, said that these steps are common sense. "You don't have to be strong. If you know these simple things they can save you," Borton said. Niles recommends a change in lifestyle to prevent criminals from making a victim of students. "There is safety in numbers, and if you feel in danger, don't hesitate to ask for help," said Niles. Tony Hudson, an independent distributor in Stillwater for Quorum security products, showed various alarms and safety products
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such as Paal, Personal Attack Alarm. Paal is a small alarm that can be taken anywhere, and when a key is removed from the small box, an earshattering sound of 103 decibels screams out. Hudson said some people carry alarms and mace for peace of mind. He suggested that anyone carrying any kind of device should realize the benefits and disadvantages. Mace is effective, but a disadvantage that many do not realize is that wind gusts could hinder the effects on Self-defense instructor Matt Niles shows student Sarah Borton how to defend herself against an the attacker, said attacker. The course was held Nov. 17 at the Broncho Corral. (Staff Photo by David McNeese) Hudson. Niles suggested 'Always lock your car, but don't assume •Walk confidently, directly to your destithat when a protective device is used the perthat because you locked it when you left, no son should have a good knowledge of what nation at a steady pace. 'Walk close to the curb. Avoid doorways, one could have breached the security and hidthey are using. "Anytime a gun is r"rchased, a safety bushes and alleys where attackers might hide. den inside. Check the back seat and floor'Wear clothes and shoes that give you boards before getting in. course needs to be taken, " said Niles. 'Before you leave your car or building freedom of movement. Don't burden your"Even if a person is carrying a stun gun, they should know some techniques just in self with too many packages or a large purse. going to your car, place your keys in the palm •Be careful when people ask directions. of your hand with one or two of the keys in case," said Niles. He recommends people take a good mar- Always reply from a distance and never get your palm and one or two of the keys protruding from your hand when you make a fist. too close to the car. You don't have to be "the tial arts class, if possible. 'When returning to your car, survey the answer lady" of a good Samaritan when you area around your car: uring the seminar, a list of tips are alone and vulnerable. • Look underneath your car (carry a small •If you are in danger, don't be reluctant to were given for safety outside and flashlight in your purse or backpack). scream and run. If you are in trouble, attract inside the home: If there's a van or suspicious vehicle • help any way you can. OUTDOOR TIPS parked on the driver's side of your car, get in 'Vary your routine. Don't always take the on the passenger's side. same route, park in the same spot, leave at the 'Always be aware of your surroundings. same time, etc. An attacker will usually VSee SAFETY, Page 5 •Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible. "case" his victim and learn her habits.
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