HOUSTON – Charlie Vega and Tracy Vega are self-defense experts who demonstrate how to stay alive if you're attacked. They start with a common scenario: You're in a store parking lot or garage and someone approaches you.
The duo says the first thing you should do is put your hand up to the attacker's face. Keep your distance, at least 7 to 10 feet away.
If the person keeps coming toward you, the Vegas say throw anything you can at that person's eyes. That will make the attacker flinch and it gives you time to get away.
If someone grabs your arm near the wrist or forearm, push back on the attacker's thumb. Don't try to fight all five fingers. The Vegas stress the focus should be on escaping -- not staying and fighting.
What if an attacker tries to pick you up and puts his hand over your mouth? The Vegas say try to grab an attacker's finger and peel it back.
If you are pinned on the ground, the attacker's weight is on his hands and knees. So, take your foot, put it on his knee and push it out.
One last piece of advice from the Vegas: If you're walking to your car, stay off your phone and don't text. Look ahead and have your keys in your hand.