Anyone care to discuss methods of deflection, de-escalation, and escape?
Sure.

As for the avoidance and awareness, IMO, those things are no-brainers, and should be part of everyday common sense. Funny though, how many people still walk around with their head in the clouds. No, I'm not suggesting that any times we walk outside, we turn into some paranoid nutcase, looking over our shoulder every 2 seconds, but know what's going on around you is important.
As for the other things: I like the method of standing and hand placement that you describe in your post. I too prefer a slightly bladed stance, with hands in a non-threatening position. In addition to having them up and open, I've also hand them up and together, almost as if you were clapping your hands. Certainly looks non threatening and provides great position should you need to blast forward into your attacker.
De-escalation: This, IMO, is something that I've rarely seen discussed in a lot of the schools that I've been to. It's a shame really, because while talking may not always work, it may save you some headache down the road. In other words, if you could've talked your way out, vs actually fighting, there's less worry of dealing with the police, possibly getting arrested, etc. Anyways...I've talked my way out of more confrontations than I've actually been in physically. While I don't feel that we should have to turn into a giant chicken and act like a scared child, begging for forgiveness, I think a calm, but confident tone/appearance, is much better.
Escape: IMO, this, much like being aware, should also be part of the common sense factor. Pull into the parking lot or garage at the local mall...take some time to look around. Be cautious as to where you park, take note of a shady looking person or group standing around, take note of any emergency exits. Have some sort of plan in place, should you be out with a loved one, and find yourself in a situation where you may need to defend yourself or the person you're with. Sure, its easy to say run, but much like talking your way out of something, running may not always be an option.