Rape is a violent crime, an invasion, and a frightening
experience. Rape affects all women, no matter what their age, race, or economic status.
All women are potential victims of sexual assault.
By being aware, a woman can reduce the likelihood of
becoming a rape victim. This does not mean all rapes can be prevented. RAPISTS COMMIT
RAPE—NOT VICTIMS.
PSYCHOLOGICAL PREPAREDNESS
Accept the fact that you are a potential rape victim.
Many women operate under the illusion "it will never happen to me." It may.
Educate yourself concerning rape prevention.
Become familiar with community rape prevention.
Become aware of locations and situations where rape is
more likely to occur and avoid them, or take precautions.
IN A DATING/FRIEND SITUATION
The majority of rapes that occur are termed
"acquaintance rapes" – the rapist and victim know one another. Trust your
feelings. If you become uncomfortable in a situation, assertively ask the person to leave.
Don’t worry about hurt feelings.
If possible, let a friend or roommate know who you are
with and where you will be. Leave address and phone number when possible.
IN YOUR CAR
Keep windows and doors locked.
If you should be followed into your driveway, stay in
your car with the doors locked. Sound horn to get the attention of neighbors or scare the
other driver off.
When parking at night, select a place that will be well
lit when returning to the car.
Always make sure the car is locked, and have the keys
ready when returning to the car.
Be prepared when returning to your car;
If you have more than 2 bags, use the cart if possible
so your hands will be free.
Have your keys out and ready before you leave. It is
suggested to have your car entry key between your first 2 fingers, this could be used as a
weapon if necessary.
Be alert of your surroundings. Do not walk out of the
store with your head down looking at the ground. Keep your eyes on the parking lot and be
prepared.
Check the interior of car before getting in. (Example:
look in the back seat)
6. Know your location.
If there is an emergency, and you must call 911 on a cell phone
you need to know where you
are so that you can tell the 911 dispatcher.
ON THE STREET
Be observant of things around you. If someone is
following you, go the nearest house or store.
Walk near the curb and avoid passing close to
shrubbery, dark doorways and other places of concealment.
DO NOT HITCHHIKE.
Avoid short cuts through parking lots and alleys.
Avoid short cuts through parking lots and alleys.
If a car approaches you and you feel threatened, scream
and run in the direction opposite of the one the car is going.
When arriving home by taxi or private auto, ask the
driver to wait until you are inside.
Don’t job in secluded areas.
Know the location of the special emergency phones on
campus.
IN YOUR HOME OR DORM ROOM
The best lock cannot function if you fail to lock it.
Be sure to keep your doors locked.
All windows should have secure locks and frames.
All entrances and garages should be well lit. If you
live in an apartment complex and it is not well lit or a light is burned out, contact your
apartment manager and have them replace the bulb.
Never open the door after a knock. Always look through
the peephole. If you do not recognize the person, require the person to give their name
and ask them what they need. Even if you have a chain do not open the door until they have
identified themselves. In the case of service persons ask for proper I.D. and refuse
entrance if you feel uneasy.
If you return home and your door is ajar or a window is
broken, contact the authorities before entering your home or apartment. Never enter alone.
Always trust your instincts. If someone or something is
making you uncomfortable follow up on those feelings do not disregard them.
Have emergency numbers by your phone. Never be afraid
to contact law enforcement. Your law enforcement agency is here to protect you and they
can only assist you if they are notified.
