Know what to do
A simple safety process for recognizing trouble, getting away, finding help, and reporting what happened.
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Notice the warning signs
Pay attention to your surroundings and to behavior that feels threatening, controlling, or unsafe. You do not need to wait for a situation to get worse before acting.
Think: What is happening, where is the nearest safe place, and who can help?
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Create distance
Leave when you can. Move toward trusted adults, groups of people, a staffed business, or another well-lit public place. Avoid being isolated with the person causing concern.
Your goal is to get away safely, not to win an argument or confrontation.
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Use your voice
If it feels safe, set a clear boundary in a firm voice. Keep it short: “Stop,” “Back up,” or “I need help.” Make noise to attract attention when necessary.
Physical self-defense is a last resort to escape immediate harm, not to continue a fight.
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Get help now
Tell a trusted adult such as a parent, teacher, coach, counselor, school administrator, or security staff member. If the first person does not help, keep telling people until someone does.
For immediate police, fire, or medical help in the United States, call 911.
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Document and report
As soon as you are safe, write down what happened, when and where it occurred, who was involved, and who witnessed it. Save relevant messages, emails, or screenshots.
Report through your school's process and the relevant online platform when digital harassment is involved.
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Practice before you need it
Identify trusted adults, learn your school's safety procedures, rehearse clear boundary phrases, and take instruction from a qualified, safety-focused self-defense program.
Preparation builds options. No safety strategy works every time, and being harmed is never your fault.