1 of 15

best self defense objects

Source: Caiaimage/Rafal Rodzoch / Getty

Have you ever thought about what you’d do if someone tried to attack you in your home? Office? Car? At a café? Unless you’re someone who carries a weapon with you everywhere you go, you may find yourself feeling rather helpless. Nobody wants to think about such an attack even happening, but you’ve seen the news. You’ve opened your eyes and ears and heard the stories. Very few individuals who get attacked had any idea it was coming. When it occurs, you can become so frozen with terror—or simply be in denial that it’s even happening—that you just give up. But, you can familiarize yourself, right now, with common objects you have around you in your regular settings, that could actually be used as a weapon. You have more power than you think. And today, it’s important for women know how to take care of themselves. But it’s good to consider these items now, rather than improvise on the spot when a real incident occurs.

best self defense objects

Source: Comstock Images / Getty

A letter opener

Letter openers are no joke, and if used to stab someone, could do some serious damage. While keeping a knife at your desk may not be allowed in your office, you likely have a letter opener nearby.

best self defense objects

Source: RawPhoto1 / Getty

Your beverage

Should your mug be full of a hot beverage, throw it at the attacker. If it’s truly hot, you’ll burn your attacker, seriously slowing him down. Even if your beverage is lukewarm, your attacker won’t know that until it hits him, and may flinch and cower in anticipation of a hot liquid.

best self defense objects

Source: Pacharee Watanakul / EyeEm / Getty

A blanket or towel

Though it’s only a distraction tactic, and can only be used if the attacker is already very close, sometimes it’s your last resort. Grab a nearby blanket, towel, or sweater, and toss it on the attacker’s face to disorient him while you escape.