Rape Prevention

Rape is about power, control, and anger. Think about the unthinkable. Don’t mask the facts about rape with myths and stereotypes. The truth is…Rape is an act of violence. It is an attempt to control and degrade using sex as a weapon. Rape can happen to anyone – children, students, wives, mothers, working women, grandmothers, the rich and poor, and boys and men. Rapists can be anyone – classmates, co-workers, a neighbor or delivery person, ugly or attractive, outgoing or shy, often a friend or family member. Rapists commit their crime again and again, until they are caught.

According to the National Crime Prevention Council the following is a brief list of the small everyday things you can do to help reduce your chances of becoming a victim of sexual assault. Please share this list with others.

Always be alert!

Walk with confidence and purpose.

Be aware of your surrounding – know who’s out there and what’s going on.

Don’t let alcohol or other drugs cloud your judgment.

Trust your instincts. If a situation or place makes you feel uncomfortable or uneasy, leave!

Indoors

Make sure all doors (don’t forget sliding glass doors) and windows have sturdy, well-installed locks, and use them! Install a wide-angle peephole in the door. Keep entrances well lighted.

Never open your door to strangers. Offer to make an emergency call while someone waits outside. Check the identification of any sales or service people before letting them in. Don’t be embarrassed to phone for verification.

Be wary of isolated spots – apartment laundry rooms, underground garages, parking lots, offices after business hours. Walk with a friend, co-worker, or security guard, particularly at night.
Know your neighbors, so you have someone to call or go to if you’re scared.

If you come home and see a door or window open, or broken, don’t go in. Call the police from a public phone or neighbor’s home.

Outdoors

Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Stay in well-traveled, well-lighted areas.

Wear clothes and shoes that give you freedom of movement.

Be careful if anyone in a car asks you for directions – if you answer, keep your distance from the car.

Have your key ready before you reach the door – home, car, or office.

If you think you’re being followed, change direction and head for open stores, restaurants, theaters, or a lighted house.

In Your Car

Park in areas that will be well-lighted and well-traveled when you return.

Always lock your car – when you get in and when you get out.

Look around your car and in the back seat before you get in.

If your car breaks down, lift the hood, lock the doors, and turn on your flashers. Use a Call Police banner or flares. If someone stops, roll the window down slightly and ask the person to call the police or a tow service.

Don’t hitchhike, ever. Don’t pick up a hitchhiker.