Only rapists can prevent rape.
However there are risk reduction strategies that can help keep you safe.
- Be alert to your surroundings.
- Walk with confidence. The more confident you look, the less vulnerable you appear.
- If you feel uncomfortable about a person or location, leave immediately.
- Be aware of date rape drugs. Don’t accept drinks in open containers, and never leave your drink unattended.
- Avoid making sexual decisions with alcohol and drug use. Your ability to make smart decisions is affected when you are drunk or high.
- When going out with someone new, don’t feel that you have to be alone with your date. Go out with a group or meet in a public place.
- Avoid individuals who don’t listen to you, express sexist attitudes or act possessive. These are all “red flags”.
- Always know where you are. If you need to call 911, the operator must know your exact location.
- List only your initials and last name in the telephone directory and on a mailbox.
- Make certain your entrance area is well lit.
- Do not prop open self-locking doors.
- Lock your doors regardless if you are home or not, even if you leave for only a few minutes to take out the trash.
- Shades or blinds should be on every window.
- Know where your keys are at all times. Don't lend them. Don't leave them. Don't lose them. And don't put your name and address on the key ring.
- Ask service workers to identify themselves. If you were not expecting the worker, call their employer to confirm the visit.
- Walk closer to the curb than to buildings and trees.
- Ask for an escort in parking garages
- Drive on well-traveled streets with doors locked.
- Park in well-lighted areas and lock the car, even if you will only be gone for a few minutes.
- If a stranger asks to use the phone, do not let him/her enter. You can offer to make the call.
- Think about what you really want. And communicate this with your partner.
- Respect yourself. Your thoughts are important, and you have a right to verbalize those things and to have your wishes honored.
WHEN “NO” DOESN’T WORK…
- Trust your instincts.
- Stay calm. Try to think about your options.
- You may be able to discourage your attacker by talking. Persuade him/her not to commit the assault by having them focus on you as a friend.
- Hit and kick hard if you think you can escape. There is a chance that fighting back may enrage the attacker. Self-defense training can help you improve your strength and defense skills. However, common sense and general awareness are the best tools you have.
- Do whatever you have to do to stay safe. If you feel your life is in danger, your best option may be not to fight back. This does not mean consent. The assault is not your fault.
REMEMBER…Most victims wonder if they made the right choices and question their decisions. But there is no right or wrong way to respond to an attack. Each rapist and situation is different. Whatever action you took to save your life was the right thing to do.
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