Any crime of violence done against another person with or without provocation, constitute the crime called assault. In some countries, as mild as threat and attempt to harm or put fear towards another person, is already considered an assault. A simple touching of another person without the consent of the victim falls in the same crime category. In every country, the crime is defined in different forms and different acts. However, in general it refers to only one thing, the attempt to force your intentions towards another person without their approval or consent.

Some of the most common assaults committed:

?Putting fear on someone

?Threatening the person

?Attempt to cause harm, hurt, injure

?Touch or make physical contact without asking permission from the subject

?Rape(including marital rape)

?Physical injury

?Use of weapon to injure

?Use of weapon to threaten another person

When you are faced with an attacker, it is important that you are alert and does not panic. To minimize the harm or damage to your person during the assault, think first before you act. Check your avenues of escape. You could distract or attempt to distract the attacker so you can at least move to a safer place where a barrier could make it hard for the attacker to make advances. Look around for possible weapons. Anything that could at least ward of the attacker or make him realizes that you intend to use the weapon.

Remember that assault usually takes place swiftly that seldom others notice if one person has been assaulted. During attack, if you can at least call for help do so. If you have even a slim chance of getting back at your attacker, in circumstances where there is no weapon to put you at more risk, then do so. A kick at the most sensitive spot will do. Any attempt to make a noise will catch attention then that is a good chance to get help. As long as you do not panic and unless the attacker means harm and not just a regular prank, then you have choices.

In case the attacker has a weapon, do not make necessary counter attack. Unless you are good at self-defense, then this is not a good option for you during assault. Just stall time or if possible, surrender your things, and just run at the first sign of opportunity. There is nothing pricier than your life. Report the incident as soon as possible.

There is no better prevention than care and anticipation. When you need to pass in an area where there are less people or the place is almost deserted, be always aware of any possible assault. If possible, always have a weapon in handy. It does not have to be sharp or something that needs permit to carry. There are different concealable weapons you can always carry around. If you can afford it, get yourself a self-defense lesson. It pays to be always prepared and capable of defending yourself wherever you go. The rate of assault these days is quite high. Protect yourself and lessen the number of victims.