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.
Got ideas you'd like to share with us? We'd
like to hear safety tips that worked for you.
Remember: No matter how many or how few safety precautions you use, it is
never your fault if you are raped.
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IF YOU HAVE BEEN RAPED
DO
- Tell someone you trust
- Call the police immediately
- Go to the hospital or a doctor
- Call for support of a rape crisis worker
DO NOT
- Wash, shower, douche, urinate or defecate (if
possible).
- Change your clothes or anything about the scene where
the crime took place.
- Eat, drink, or smoke.
You could destroy evidence which may be needed
later.
RAPE IS UNLAWFUL
SEXUAL INTERCOURSE
REPORT
IT
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WOMEN DO NOT ASK FOR RAPE; NO ONE
DOES
RAPE IS NOT A SEXUAL ACT, IT IS AN
ACT OF VIOLENCE
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