Top 10 Safety Concerns in Canada — And How Krav Maga is the Solution

The world isn’t what it once was. In the past six years, our streets have shifted dramatically, with violent crime and assaults on the rise. Today, staying safe isn’t just about luck—it’s about awareness. Learning to recognize pre-attack indicators, making smarter lifestyle choices, and knowing how to respond under pressure has become a vital skillset for anyone who wants to move through life with confidence and peace of mind.

From rising public attacks to growing online harassment, safety has become one of the most pressing issues for Canadians. Based on surveys, interviews, academic studies, and social sentiment over the past decade, here are the top public concerns about violence and physical harm in Canada — and the key emotional needs people most want when facing these dangers.

Top 10 Violence & Safety Concerns in Canada (2015–2025)

1. Random Public Attacks in Public Spaces

   Canadians are increasingly anxious about unprovoked, unpredictable assaults in cities, towns, and transit systems.

2. Violence Against Women in Canada

   Gender-based violence—especially domestic abuse and sexual assault—remains one of the country’s most urgent safety issues.

3. Youth Violence & Bullying

   Reports of bullying, school violence, and cyber-aggression are rising, threatening the safety and well-being of children and teens.

4. Hate Crimes & Discrimination

   Targeted attacks based on race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation continue to grow in both frequency and visibility.

5. Online Harassment & Cyberstalking

   Digital abuse—especially toward women, youth, and marginalized groups—is a major and growing threat.

6. Mental Health-Related Violence

   Concerns are growing about violent outbursts connected to untreated or poorly managed mental health crises.

7. Gun & Knife Violence in Canada

   While less common than in other countries, firearm and knife incidents are increasing in both urban and rural areas.

8. Workplace Violence

   Healthcare workers, retail staff, and service professionals face rising risks of verbal abuse and physical aggression on the job.

9. Break-Ins & Home Invasions

   Property crime, burglaries, and home invasions leave Canadians feeling vulnerable in their own homes.

10. Lack of Bystander Confidence

    Many people fear freezing or not knowing what to do when witnessing violence or someone in crisis.

Before looking at solutions, it’s important to understand what people are really seeking beyond physical safety. Research shows that underneath these safety concerns are powerful emotional and psychological needs that drive how Canadians want to feel in the face of potential violence.

Top Emotional & Psychological Needs Canadians Want Met

When Canadians think about facing potential violence, they consistently express a desire to feel:

1. Safe – A strong sense of physical and psychological security.

2. Prepared – Ready with the knowledge, skills, and plans to respond effectively.

3. Confident & In Control – Trusting their abilities and able to act decisively under pressure.

4. Empowered to Protect Self & Others – Capable of safeguarding loved ones and supporting community safety.

5. Free from Fear – Able to live fully without violence limiting choices or activities.

Everyone has different reasons for wanting to learn a self-defence system. For some, past encounters with violence highlight how crucial these skills can be for survival and peace of mind. For others who have never experienced such situations, self-defence may not seem necessary — but just like insurance for your home or first aid training, it’s a skill you hope you never need, yet one that gives you confidence and peace of mind knowing you’re prepared. At TalonPoint, we see self-defence as that essential 'just in case' skill that helps you walk taller and feel more secure in everyday life.

Canadians are worried about unpredictable public attacks, gender-based violence, online harassment, workplace aggression, and property crime. At the heart of these concerns lies a common desire: to feel safe, prepared, confident, in control, and empowered in daily life.

How Krav Maga Training Meets These Needs

Krav Maga training directly addresses the emotional and practical needs Canadians express in the face of violence:

• Safe – Practical techniques and awareness strategies increase both physical and psychological security.

• Prepared – Students gain proven self-defence skills, situational awareness, and a clear plan for real-world scenarios.

• Confident & In Control – Training builds trust in your abilities and teaches how to act decisively under stress.

• Empowered to Protect Self & Others – Skills prepare you to defend yourself and safeguard loved ones.

• Less Fear – With greater capability comes freedom, allowing people to live boldly in the face of fear.

Through realistic, beginner-friendly training, IKMF Krav Maga transforms fear into confidence, empowering Canadians with the tools to face life with strength, clarity, and resilience. Learn more about the system itself on our What is Krav Maga? page.