How can I protect myself at home?
Never open your door to a stranger. Respond to a knock or ring with something like :
“I’ll get it, George!”. Give the caller or visitor the impression you are not alone. Use a
peephole and safety chain when answering the door. Ask for identification from salesman,
deliveryman, or repairman. Call the company if you’re in doubt.
I have been receiving obscene phone calls, what should I do?
It is against the law to make obscene or harassing phone calls. If you
receive such a call, hand up immediately. Do not give out any information.
Call your local phone company and ask for the Annoyance Call Center. If
calls persist, call your local police department or sheriff’s department.
I walk alone every day. How can I prevent myself from being assaulted?
- Do not walk alone; use the “Buddy System”.
- Wear comfortable clothing for freedom of movement.
- Avoid walking in poorly lighted areas.
- Walk confidently, purposefully, and briskly. Always be familiar with your surroundings. (Be Alert)
- Plan your route. Do not take unfamiliar shortcuts; walk on the sidewalk. Notify family and friends of your route and expected time of arrival.
- Carry a flashlight if you’re walking at night and a whistle to attract attention.
- Don’t accept rides.
What should I do if someone is following me?
If you feel someone is following you find the nearest lighted and populated place as if it were your
actual destination. Go to the door and ring the bell or go inside, i.e. , home, gas station, business,
police department…….If a car pulls alongside you, change your pace, cross the street, and/or turn
and walk in the opposite direction.
I use public transportation. What can I do to protect myself?
Avoid isolated bus stops. While seated, be alert and do not fall asleep. Sit behind the driver or near the front. Do not ride a bus that is nearly empty, especially late at night. When arriving home by cab or private ride, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside.
I am going to club a tonight to meet some new people. Do you have any advise?
Let a friend or relative know what time to expect you home.
- Go with at least one friend and keep track of each other.
- Do not give out your telephone number.
- Watch your drink because drugs like Ruffies, GHB, and "Special K" are very popular in the
nightclubs and are often slipped into drinks. These drugs can take away your ability to
fight back and to remember.
- Do not leave a club or party with someone you just met. If you decide to “step outside for
a breath of fresh air or quiet conversation”, tell your friends your plans and give them an
approximate time of how long you’ll be gone. Also, introduce the gentlemen by his full
name to your friends.
I am going on my first date. What can I do to protect myself.
Tell your friends and/or parents where you are going and what your plans are.
- Before you go out with him for the first time, check out his phone numbers and “Story”.
- Call to confirm your date.
- You may want to meet him at the pre-planned location and drive your own car.
- Meet at a neutral (public) place for the first date or have friends go along.
- After a date, if you decide to invite him to your home or agree to go to his home, be sure of what you may be implying.
- Be sure you have communicated your sexual limits clearly.
- Do not give mixed messages. Say yes when you mean yes and no when you mean no.
What should I do if I am sexually assaulted?
Stay aware and try to remain calm.
- Think! Use your head & look for a way out.
- Get to safety immediately.
- Tell the first person you meet; point out the rapist if he is still around.
- Call 911
- Do not bathe or change clothes, because you will destroy evidence.
- Get medical attention. Physical evidence must be collected within 72 hours of the rape.
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