The Dane warriors try to avoid Grendel's attacks primarily by staying away from Heorot, the mead hall, at night when Grendel typically strikes. After Grendel begins terrorizing them, the warriors avoid sleeping in the hall to reduce their risk of being attacked

. Despite their efforts, Grendel continues to kill many of them because he attacks during the night while they are asleep

. Additionally, the warriors' weapons are ineffective against Grendel because he has a magical protection that prevents swords from piercing his skin

. This makes it impossible for them to defend themselves successfully with weapons alone. Ultimately, it is the arrival of Beowulf, a strong Geatish warrior, that changes the situation. Beowulf confronts Grendel unarmed and defeats him by seizing and tearing off Grendel’s arm during a fierce hand-to- hand struggle in Heorot

. The Danes' avoidance tactics alone were insufficient; they relied on Beowulf's strength and bravery to end Grendel’s reign of terror.