Protecting Yourself From Stranger Rape and Date Rape

Safety considerations to protect yourself from stranger rape and date rape.

TO AVOID STRANGER RAPE

At Home

• Use deadbolts; window locks; peep holes; timers for lights, radio, TV, and outside security lights.
• Never open door to strangers; require ID of service or repair people.
• Plan several escape routes from your home.
• If you are a single woman - use only initials at door and in phone book. Pretend there is a man at home if someone calls.
• If you come home and something looks wrong or different - do not enter; go to a safe place and call police.

On the Street:

• Go with others.
• Vary routines; go different ways at different times.
• Know where the safe places are; businesses that are open late, homes where people are up late, etc.
• If a situation feels wrong, get away fast.
• Stay away from bushes and parked cars; walk in the center of the sidewalk or road.

In Your Car:

• Always lock doors - when you are in the car and when you leave it, even if only for a short time.
• Park near lights at night.
• Have keys in hand when leaving building for car, or leaving car for building.
• Drive with windows mostly closed.
• Keep car in good working order and keep gas tank at least 1/4 full.
• In case of a breakdown, stay in locked car; if assistance is offered, request that police be called.

On the Job:

• Do not work late alone; keep company with others.
• Go to the parking lot with others or ask security to accompany you.
• Vary route (and time if possible) to and from work.
• Maintain assertiveness with coworkers.

TO AVOID DATE RAPE

• Decide on your personal sexual limits; know what you will do or will not do.
• Communicate clearly - make sure your date understands your sexual limits.
• Be assertive - stand up for your rights. You have a right to protect your body.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs - they may impair your thought and action.
• Date with friends until you feel comfortable with a new date. Never leave a bar or party with someone you have just met. Don't let yourself be isolated.
• Stay in control - offer to share expenses so there is no question of "owing" your date. Carry extra money to get you home or to make a phone call for help.
• Trust your intuition - if you feel that there is something wrong with a person or situation, get away immediately.

Remember: No matter how many or how few safety precautions you use, it is never your fault if you are raped.

More safety tips to protect yourself from rape here.

next: Verbal Self-Defense Against Rape, Sexual Assault