Local Expert Teaches Sedgebrook Residents What to Do in a Dangerous Situation

By Melissa Borgerding

Say you stop at a gas station at night. No sooner do two of your friends get out of the car when a stranger approaches them and demands money.

“What would you do?” Master Edgar Mosquera of Airwolf Martial Arts in Highland Park asked the crowd of Sedgebrook residents and Priority List members who participated in a free self-defense seminar and demonstration at the Cardinal Clubhouse. The seminar is just one of many programs offered through Sedgebrook’s Center for Continuous Learning.

Master Edgar’s advice: lock the doors to avoid making the situation worse by giving the stranger access to your car, and call 911 on your cell phone. Or, if you don’t have a phone, drive up to the cashier and signal for help.

Situation Awareness

Unfortunately, scenarios like those Master Edgar outlined during Sedgebrook’s self-defense seminar are all too common. According to the US Department of Justice, people age 65-plus are disproportionately affected by property crimes such as burglary, car theft, and purse-snatching. In fact, nine out of ten crimes committed against people 65-plus are property crimes.

It’s vital to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid potentially dangerous situations, Master Edgar explained. But if you do find yourself in such a situation, you need to know how to defend yourself.

Some Simple Self-Defense Moves

Master Edgar showed the class several self-defense moves to be used “only if the situation warrants.” Participants enthusiastically practiced kicks, jabs, and hits. Even Retirement Counselor Tracy Dellaria got into the action, showing off a mean knee jab.

“You don’t need to be particularly strong,” said Master Edgar. “You just need to know which part of your body to use. If you have good knees, use them. If you can jab someone with your elbow, do it. Just know your strengths and weaknesses.”