That would have been the only suggestion I had for you. Make your command to them an actual command, not a simple "I can't help you". People respond differently to a command forcefully spoken and someone saying - even shouting - that they can't help you, and this response is at a subconscious level. While in this case you made it to your car safely, shouting the command may have either paused or slowed the BG, giving you an extra second or so reaction time or allowing you to psychologically take command of the situation.DLBConductor wrote:If there is anything I would have done differently, I would have yelled, "STOP! DON'T COME ANY CLOSER!" instead of, "I CAN'T HELP YOU!" This is something I will practice so it is second nature to me.
This is why a police officer will forcefully issue commands upon arrival at a chaotic event. He is establishing his dominance and authority to all people present. Even without the uniform, badge, and other outward symbols of authority, a forceful presence would establish authority.