In emergencies, safety glass can be shattered to allow passengers to escape through the windows. Photo: IC

In emergencies, safety glass can be shattered to allow passengers to escape through the windows. Photo: IC

A recent flurry of violent attacks on bus passengers across China have spurred public discussions about whether average citizens should consider carrying small weapons or learning self-defense techniques.

"Common items such as keys, wallet, and high heels are effective tools for self-defense," said Mu Qiang, who coached security guards for nine years and now teaches self-defense techniques in Fengtai district.

"If the robber demands your wallet," says Mu, "in the instant that you pull it out, smash it directly into the face of the attacker. He won't be able to react for two to three seconds, and you can use this time to take control." Similarly, shining a bright flashlight directly into a person's eyes can blind them for five to six seconds.

Compact self-defense items, such as pepper spray and tactical pens, can be bought online and are easy to carry. Mu points out that breath spray or even perfume can be substituted for pepper spray. "As long as it's directed to the eyes of the offender, it will be effective. And the tactical pen is getting quite popular these days," he said, referring to sturdy writing implements that double as self-defense tools.

With the blade of a key protruding from the fist, you can fend off an attacker by stabbing him in a vulnerable area. Alternately, women can use high heels to stomp on the attacker's foot. "Sometimes the heel can penetrate through to the sole. It sounds cruel, but it's quite effective," said Mu.

On August 22, the official website of the Haidian district branch of the Beijing Public Security Bureau posted several notices about how passengers can protect themselves in case of a bus attack. They also emphasized using objects that are close to hand: "In case of danger, things already on the bus can be turned into defensive weapons, such as the fire extinguisher, the mop, broom, the wastepaper baskets …. Protect yourself by using the things you already carry, such as umbrella, backpacks, books and water bottles."

The official notice included reminders about how to escape from a bus. There is a red emergency release handle above the bus doors; if you turn the grip clockwise 90 degrees, the doors open immediately. Also, bus windows are made of safety glass that can be shattered when struck with the emergency hammer or another sharp, heavy object.

According to Mu, the most effective way to combat attacks in narrow spaces is the Close Quarters Combat techniques, which take around two months to master.

"The moves are simple, but you need to practice the reaction speed and make the moves instinctive," he said. "The training can make that reaction a natural and rapid response to harmful and sudden movement from the attacker."

The basic moves are summarized as follows: 1) duck a direct attack, 2) grasp the wrist, 3) control the elbow. "If the knife-holder faces you directly, you need to turn left or right for 45 degrees; first control the wrist, then the elbow," Mu said. "At the same time, use your heel to kick his knee-joint to make him fall."

However, if the attacker is trying to create an explosion using gas or other flammable materials, then active intervention is recommended. "All the passengers should band together to grab his hands and stop him from igniting the gas. Then take him to a safe area and call the police," said Mu.