I am no Superman but…

I wonder why we can’t have a real life super hero of our own. Like a Batman or a Superman?

A vigilant figure that would come out in the night, disguised and fights the bad guys. Someone who would be present on the signals where most snatchings are taking place; would love to see someone break arms of the thugs while they hold a gun to an innocent man behind the wheels. I still remember the day I got snatched at one of the busy signals. I could see this guy coming to our car, holding a gun. He asked for our phones; we acted as robots and automatically handed over our belongings to him. While he walked away I felt this instant urge to do something about it, something that would break the guy’s confident retreat to his accomplice.  

When we talk about the history of such vigilant forces they are not a fantasy and have always existed in places where governments failed to ensure security and justice. Robin Hood was one of the first characters formed on the basis of injustices in the society due to failure of governance. In today's modern times the Davao Death Squad who claim to be a vigilante outfit has been directly involved in making Philippines' Davao City "the most peaceful city in Southeast Asia" as per tourism organisations. Similarly another case reported in England in 2006 involves slashing tires of more than twenty cars, leaving a note made from cut-out newsprint with the words: you have been seen driving while using your mobile phone.

But then we just have to be our own super hero sometimes. So how many of us are capable of taking care of ourselves on our own? Unfortunately not many of us are comfortable with the idea of self defence let alone equipping ourselves with self defence products such as stun guns, pepper spray, mace etc. It is advisable in these times that one should at least carry a pepper spray while going out.

Our best bet is to try and avoid dangerous situations by being alert and watchful.  In case we encounter any such situation where we feel compromised and cannot avoid it then at least we should be equipped so much so not to be at the mercy of the assailant. Rather aiming for an upfront collision, the aim should be to break away from the situation as quickly as possible. This is when self defence comes in handy. A pepper can used in time would distract the invader and would buy out enough time to make a escape, but it can also backfire in case one is not fully aware of how to use it properly. Similarly stun guns or Tasers are also effective in case you are being mugged in your house or kidnapped in your own car. A personally tried and tested approach is never to stop your car at a signal. For instance if you can see the red light from way ahead its better to slow down but keep on moving instead of speeding up and then waiting behind another car. A robber would think twice about approaching a moving vehicle even if it is slow. 

The overall security situation is worsening everyday. However if you are not comfortable with the idea of carrying a self defence device or weapon don’t hype yourself.  It can backfire if you are not confident and you can end up in a much worse situation. But to become true masters of our fate we need to take control of various factors. Try being extra observant, avoid particular places famous for mugging (signals etc), keep your senses calm under all situations and take calculated measures.