How do I talk to my teen about personal safety and self-defense?

Discuss situational awareness — staying alert in public, trusting instincts when something feels wrong, and avoiding isolated areas alone at night. Teach practical skills like sharing their location with family, keeping phones charged, and knowing emergency contacts. Consider age-appropriate self-defense classes that also build confidence. Open, ongoing conversations work better than one-time lectures. Consult your pediatrician about age-appropriate safety discussions.