Ready For Unsteady

Ready For Unsteady logo – emergency preparedness for everyday life
Ready For Unsteady logo – emergency preparedness for everyday life

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Self-Defense

The best defense is strength in numbers -having allies in an unsteady situation will be more important than any type of individual self-defense.  While it's always preferable to avoid dangerous situations, knowing how to defend yourself can be crucial in certain circumstances.

Situational Awareness

  • Avoid distractions like texting or zoning out—especially in new or crowded places.
  • Make a habit of scanning your surroundings and people nearby.
  • Always note at least two ways out of any space—restaurants, stores, public events, etc.
  • Keep at least one ear free when walking or commuting so you can hear what’s going on around you.
  • Observe behavior—nervousness, pacing, heavy clothing in hot weather, or unusual interest in surroundings can be red flags.
  • Maintain personal space in public. If someone gets too close without reason, be ready to move or respond.
  • Try noting license plates when out running errands—build the habit before it’s urgent.

Your intuition is a powerful survival tool. It processes subtle cues long before your rational brain catches up. If something feels “off,” it probably is.

  • Don’t second-guess your instincts. If a person, place, or situation gives you an uneasy feeling, act on it – even if you can’t explain why.
  • Make small adjustments first. Step out of a line, switch seats, cross the street, or leave a location. You don’t need permission to prioritize your safety.
  • Have an exit strategy. Being ready to walk away gives you confidence and options. Whether you’re at a public event, in a parking garage, or driving through a questionable area, know how to get out fast.

Home Defense

  • Install solid-core doors and deadbolts on all exterior doors.
  • Install 4-inch screws on all door stomp plates. This helps prevent doors from being easily kicked in.
  • Use door jamb reinforcement kits to resist forced entry.
  • Add security bars or pin locks to sliding doors and windows.
  • Apply shatter-resistant film to ground-level windows.
  • Keep shrubs trimmed below window height.
  • Have enough plywood or other hard materials on-hand to secure windows and doors.
  • Consider a nail gun for prompt installation.
  • Sandbags are useful for reinforcing doors from the inside or redirecting water in dual flood-defense roles.
  • Identify heavy furniture that can be quickly moved to block entry points.
  • Practice positioning in advance so household members can act fast.
  • Install solar-powered security cameras with motion detectors and alarms.
  • Use fences, gates, or hedges to define property boundaries.
  • Keep shrubs trimmed below window height and eliminate hiding spots near doors and walkways.
  • Add a noisemaker like a gravel path or security chimes.
  • Designate a lockable interior room as a fallback point.
  • Stock it with a phone, flashlight, first aid, and basic supplies.
  • Train with your household – discuss emergency scenarios and response plans.

IMPORTANT: Practice how to safely access and use whatever tools you keep. Ensure all adults in the home know where items are and how they work.

  • Consider a reliable, easy-to-handle firearm like a shotgun or handgun. Store securely but accessibly in a quick-open safe or lockbox. Know local laws, and get proper training in safe handling and use.
  • Keep a tactical flashlight, baton, or baseball bat in key areas of the home.
  • Heavy-duty tools (large wrenches, shovels, etc.) can serve dual-purpose for defense and utility.
  • Place them strategically—bedroom, near entrances, or in your safe room.
  • Stock pepper spray or gel near entry points and in bedrooms. Consider a strobe flashlight or stun gun for temporary incapacitation.

Vehicle Defense

  • Look for 24-hour businesses like Walmart (call ahead), truck stops, rest areas, or designated camping areas.
  • Avoid isolated spots or dark alleyways.
  • Check local laws—some cities prohibit overnight parking.
  • Back into the space for a quick exit.
  • Choose a spot with lighting and low foot traffic.
  • Avoid parking on sloped ground to prevent rolling or discomfort.
  • Use sunshades or window covers to block visibility.
  • Keep noise and movement to a minimum.
  • Turn off interior lights and keep the car looking “empty.”
  • Lock all doors and keep keys and your phone nearby.
  • Store essential items (shoes, flashlight, ID) within reach.
  • Set an alarm or rotate with someone if you’re in a group.
  • If something feels off – a strange person nearby, too much attention on your vehicle, or even just a gut feeling, don’t second-guess yourself.
  • Leave immediately, even if it’s inconvenient. Safety trumps sleep.
  • Don’t wait for something to “prove” your instincts right. Your intuition is your early warning system – treat it like a built-in smoke detector.
  • Have an exit route in mind and be ready to move without delay.
  • If needed, drive to a more populated area or even a police station until you find a better option.