15 Effective Ways to Defend Yourself Against a Knife Attack

A knife is a lethal weapon, and any encounter involving one is extremely dangerous. The main goal in such a situation should never be to “win” the fight, but to survive and escape safely. These fifteen techniques focus on awareness, avoidance, escape, and practical defence — not combat. They are designed to help you protect yourself, use your surroundings wisely, and get to safety as quickly as possible.

1. Situational awareness

The best defence is prevention. Stay alert to your surroundings, avoid distractions like your phone in isolated or dark areas, and be aware of unusual behaviour. Spotting potential danger early gives you time to move away before trouble starts.

2. Use your voice and body language

Speak clearly and firmly. Shout simple commands such as “Back off!” or “Stay away!” while holding your hands up in an open, non-threatening posture. This can deter an attacker and attract attention from others nearby.

3. Maintain distance

Distance is your main protection. Step back diagonally rather than straight backwards, and use obstacles such as cars, tables, or barriers to separate yourself from the attacker. Keep moving toward people, lighted areas, or exits.

4. Escape is the goal

If you have a clear path, run. Do not hesitate or turn your back completely; move quickly and call emergency services (999 in the UK) as soon as you are safe. Escape is always better than confrontation.

5. Use improvised shields

Use what you have. A backpack, coat, umbrella, or even a bin lid can be placed between you and the attacker to block or slow a strike. These are not weapons, but protective barriers to buy time and reduce injury risk.

6. Simple control if escape is impossible

If you cannot escape and the attacker is already close, the aim is to control their weapon hand just long enough to create an opening to run. Trained professionals teach methods to redirect or trap the attacker’s arm. Do not attempt such techniques without proper instruction — they are dangerous to learn alone.

7. Everyday items that can help

Carry items that are legal and useful. A mobile phone can be used to record, light, and call for help. A whistle or personal alarm can attract attention quickly. A bag, jacket, or umbrella can act as a barrier. Do not carry or use illegal items such as knives, knuckledusters, or sprays, as you could face prosecution.

8. Get professional training

If you want to learn to react effectively under stress, take a reality-based self-defence or knife-awareness course. Look for qualified instructors who focus on avoidance, escape, and the legal aspects of self-defence, not aggression or fighting.

9. First aid for knife wounds

If you or someone else is injured, call 999 immediately. Apply firm pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or pad and keep the casualty still and warm. Never remove a knife or embedded object; stabilise it and press around it. If bleeding is severe, trained responders may use a tourniquet as a last resort. Learn basic first aid from the NHS, St John Ambulance, or the Red Cross.

10. Legal and practical follow-up

After an incident, report it to the police as soon as possible. Preserve any CCTV footage or witness information if safe to do so. Get medical help even for small cuts. Contact victim support services for advice and emotional assistance.

11. Use the environment to your advantage

Look around for exits, barriers, or objects that can slow the attacker. Moving through doors, turnstiles, or narrow spaces can help you escape or delay the attacker while you seek safety. Crowds and CCTV areas are safer than empty spaces.

12. Protect your vital areas

If you cannot avoid a strike, turn your body slightly so your chest and stomach are angled away. Use your arms, a jacket, or a bag to shield your torso and neck. Protecting vital organs can greatly increase your chance of survival.

13. Step off the centreline

Rather than stepping straight back, move diagonally to one side. This takes you out of the attacker’s direct line and gives you more options to escape. Small, quick steps are usually safer and more stable than big movements.

14. Use distraction to escape

If you have a chance, create a short distraction — throw an item away from you, shout loudly, or shine a bright light. The goal is to interrupt the attacker’s focus for a moment so you can run, not to start a fight.

15. Work with others

If others are nearby, coordinate simple actions. One person can call for help, another can create distance or guide people to safety. Working together calmly is more effective than several people acting independently or trying to restrain the attacker.

On a train

Move toward the ends of the carriage or into another carriage if safe. More people means more safety. Use the intercom or emergency alarm to alert staff immediately. Keep seats, bags, or luggage trolleys between you and the attacker. Avoid causing panic; give clear instructions such as “Move away and call 999.” If someone is injured, apply pressure to the wound and stay calm until the train stops or help arrives.

On a plane

Alert the crew discreetly if possible. They are trained to handle onboard threats and have communication with the pilots and ground security. Follow crew instructions exactly. If it is safe to move, head toward an area with more people or crew, not the cockpit. Use seatbacks or bags as barriers if necessary. Do not attempt to disarm or restrain anyone unless directed by the crew and you are confident you can do so safely. If someone is injured, inform the crew immediately so they can request medical help or divert the aircraft.

1. Always aim to escape, not to fight.

2. Keep distance, use barriers, and get to safety.

3. Never carry illegal weapons.

4. Learn first aid — it can save lives.

5. Report all incidents to the police and get help afterward.

This advice is meant to help you think clearly and act safely if faced with a knife threat. Real safety starts with awareness, calm thinking, and quick decisions that put distance between you and danger.