If you think you're about to be mugged, stay calm and consider your options: acquiescence, running, stalling for time, talking your way out, screaming or-as a last resort - resisting.
If resistance appears to be your only choice, don't be squeamish about it - hurt your attacker any way that you can. Kick his groin or knee. Form your fingers into a 'V' shape and poke them into his eyes (a handful of keys or the teeth of a comb can also do a lot of damage to the attacker's eyes). Bite.
If grabbed from behind, seize hold of your attacker's little fingers and force them back as hard as you can. Rake your heel down the inside of his leg. Screw your heel into his foot or stamp on your attacker's toes. But don't get too involved in the battle. All you want is a chance to get away.
Prevention
If you live in a flat, put just your first initial and surname on the letterbox or door buzzer; if you live alone, add a fictitious sharer's name. If a threatening stranger follows you into the entrance, push all the buzzers to call neighbours. Don't enter a lift with him.
Lock all your windows and outside doors when night falls.
Install a peephole. Ask meter readers and repairmen for their identity cards before letting them in; if you still have any doubt, call their place of business to double-check they are who they say.
Travel with a companion and steer clear of dark, empty buildings, poorly lit streets and dangerous districts.
Walk confidently at a steady pace, close to the kerb and facing traffic. If you think someone is following you, cross the street. If the suspicious person does the same, walk quickly to a busy, well-lit area or go to an occupied house or shop and phone the police. Avoid delay by having your keys in your hand when approaching your home or car.
Drive with your car doors locked. If you see an incident, don't get out to help but drive on to the nearest place where it is safe for you to report it by telephone. If you are being followed in your car, drive to a garage or police station and sound your horn or flash the lights until you attract attention.
If your car breaks down, stay in it and wait for help. Let friends and family know your route and proposed times of departure and arrival. If strangers approach, roll down your windows slightly and ask them to call the police. Wait inside until help arrives.
Park in a well-lit area; look around before getting out and check inside before getting in.
See also RAPE
Don't resist with out training!