Self-defense experts were in Suffern to teach community members ways to better protect themselves in the wake of the stabbing attack in Monsey.

They say the number one tip is to become mentally, emotionally and physically prepared - that means anticipating an attacker’s actions before they happen.

Rob Fletcher has been teaching self-defense for decades. He says it’s important to have a plan in place in case something should happen.

Fletcher says some of the most important self-defense tactics include targeting an attacker’s vulnerable areas, like the groin or eyes, looking for exits when first entering a room and turning everyday items into improvised weapons.

Fletcher hopes the classes will prevent mass casualty attacks in the future.