Foster Care Manual: Self-Defense Techniques

This information has been excerpted from materials specific to one state. Be sure to check with your Foster Care Specialist for details in your state, county, or province.

WRIST GRABS

1. Push or pull own arm in direction of attacker’s thumb.
2. Twist out and escape.

HITS

1. Get out of the way, if possible.
2. Block.
3. Restrain if hits persist.

KICKS

1. Get out of the way, if possible.
2. Block.
3. Restrain if kicks persist.

BITES

1. If mouth is wide, push in forcing mouth open.
2. Push on upper gum, joint in jaw, or between teeth.

HAIR PULLS

1. Hold hand to head.
2. Release finger by finger if possible.
3. Bend attacker’s wrist toward knee to loosen grip and escape.

CHOKES

1. Front and back hand neck chokes.
a. Knock off one or both hands and escape.
2. Back neck arm choke.
a. Insure an open airway at bend of elbow.
b. Drop weight and attempt to escape.
c. Move to side neck choke position, jump around, and escape.
d. As a last resort flip attacker to ground.