For some men, the fear of appearing weak, vulnerable or powerless can make them forget their personal safety in a potentially dangerous or violent situation. Remember that even the most macho martial arts teach that it's better to talk your way out of a dangerous situation - using violence is the last resort.

Be prepared

• Try to be relaxed. You can escalate an aggressive situation if you are rushed, stressed or afraid.
• Meeting aggression with aggression leads to confrontation. Talk your way out of problems: stay calm; lower your voice, speak slowly and clearly. Breathe out slowly to help you relax.
• Each of us has a personal buffer zone which we can be quick to defend. Respect other people's space as well as your own.
• Avoid an aggressive stance: crossed arms, hands on hips, a raised arm is challenging and confrontational. Avoid touching someone unnecessarily. Look confident
• Be alert when out and about.
• Keep fit. Good posture, stamina, strength and tension control can all aid personal safety.
• Hold your head up, be aware of your surroundings and the potential hazards.
• Know where you are going and how to get there.

Avoid putting yourself at risk

• Thinking things through and planning for the unexpected helps you feel confident and react well in emergencies.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back - or at least leave a note. If your plans change tell someone.
• Avoid using unlit or isolated cash machines.
• Do not ignore your instincts, e.g. hackles rising at the back of the neck. Act straight away.

Physical attack

If you do meet a problem, your primary aim should be to GET AWAY, fast. There is no shame in doing this; it's the smart thing to do.

• Walk away as fast as you can. Head for a place where you know there are people.
• Don't look back. Try not to panic. Blow out so you can breathe properly and reduce tension.
• Yell or shout "Phone the Police" or other specific instructions to which people respond quickly.
• Use a personal attack alarm to shock and disorientate an assailant. This will gain vital seconds for you to get away.
• Report any incident as soon as possible. You may save someone else.
• Physical self-defence should only be a last resort. It limits your options and commits you to a fight you could lose. It is not weak to walk away from violence.
• If you see someone else in danger - ring 999. Ask for the Police and give a clear message with a location.

If you become the victim of a crime

Nobody knows how they are going to react if they become the victim of a crime, particularly if the crime is violent. Sometimes, victims experience feelings and fears which they find difficult to talk about to their family or friends. Call the National Victim Support Help Line on 0845 30 30 900 and talk to someone about it.

Male rape

One of the most misunderstood and damaging forms of attack on men by men is rape. Research has shown the primary motivation behind rape is to humiliate, hurt and destroy. Both heterosexual and homosexual men are victims and perpetrators of rape.

Victims of male rape rarely seek help because of feelings of embarrassment and degradation. The resulting confusion, depression and sense of isolation can wreck a man's life.

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