If you're in immediate danger, don't hesitate to free yourself from anything in your hands that won't be needed to manage the situation by throwing it in the face of an adversary or simply letting it drop to the ground. Yes, I know it might break and be messy, but if you're really in danger, that's the least of your worries.Dadtodabone wrote:All good tips. I'll add, be prepared to put your packages down if you are approached in a parking facility. Having your hands full limits your options and increases your response time. Stand hands free, loose and ready to move, give verbal warning. Shopping carts are great for creating barriers between you and a potential attacker. The few seconds an attacker needs to clear a cart will allow you to put distance between you and the threat.
Because it's unexpected, this creates a momentary distraction for an opponent. More importantly, it frees your hands for immediate defensive action in the shortest possible time frame.