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 How to Increase Safety
While you can never completely protect yourself from sexual assault, there are some things you can do to help reduce your risk of being assaulted.
Always carry yourself assertively. Be aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts. Be prepared to react accordingly. If you need to respond to a situation in a verbally assertive manner--do so. Deal with catcalls, unwanted comments or questions by walking away, or making your feelings known by telling the harasser to stop the behavior. Other responses to uncomfortable or potentially dangerous situations may include running away, yelling, or fighting. Assess your situations and react with clarity, purpose, determination and confidence. Always carry a flashlight when it is dark. Avoid poorly lighted streets, alleys, vacant lots and parking areas. Keep a respectable distance from alley entrances and tall or overgrown shrubbery. Walk on the side of the street where you face the traffic; you can see the approaching traffic and they can see you. Never accept a ride from a stranger. Never hitchhike - day or night. Carry a loud whistle in your hand when you are walking. If you find yourself in danger, blow the whistle. Do anything you can to attract attention and get help. (Do not depend entirely on an object such as a whistle to always be available in times of danger. Whistles are fine - but no better than a loud yell.) Be on the alert. If you think you are being followed, turn around and look. Project a strong, confident image. Yell, head for bright lights and people. Be ready. Use your whistle. Avoid carrying large, bulky purses and packages. They make it hard for you to keep your balance or move quickly. Though high-heeled shoes and clogs are fashionable, they will get in your way if you have to react quickly to a dangerous situation. Car doors should always be locked. When you are in the car, lock the doors. When you leave the car, lock the doors. Before getting in the car, check the floor and back seat for intruders. When driving, keep the doors locked. And remember--never pick up hitchhikers. If you think you are being followed, drive to a busy, well lighted, populated area. Honk your horn for help. Flash your lights on and off. Call the police. Avoid out of the way stops, especially by yourself, Do not drive in poorly lighted areas. Make sure your car is operating properly and has sufficient gas before you leave home. If you park in an open lot or a public garage, be aware of loiterers. Always have your car keys in your hand ready to use, this helps you avoid fumbling for them in your purse or pocket. Try to park in a lot or garage with an attendant. Always park in well lighted areas. If you must work late, ask your employer or a friend to accompany you to your car, or plan to leave as a group. When getting out of your car at home, always look around before unlocking the door. Make sure your house key is out and ready to use. Helping the driver of a stranded vehicle is admirable. BUT do not stop and get out of the car. Stop at the nearest phone and call for help. If a motorist stops to offer assistance, do not get out of the car. Roll the window down slightly, just enough to allow appropriate hearing, and ask the motorist to call the police or sheriff's department. Sources: Dating Violence Resource Center Contact the Statesboro Regional Sexual Assault Center, Inc. for more information:
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Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) |