On the Steet:

1. Keep your head up. One of the main things rapists say they look for is women who seem timid or nervous. Walking with your head down can be taken as a sign that you’re scared or insecure. Look up and look around you. Every once in awhile, take a look behind you. Make eye contact with the people around you- rapists will try to sneak up on a target, once you are able to identify them, they will be discouraged.

2. Trust your instincts. People often feel silly or childish when they get a bad feeling about a person or situation but it’s important to listen to that inner warning bell. If you feel uncomfortable for any reason don’t be afraid to trust that feeling and remove yourself from whatever is making you uncomfortable.

3. Keep your distance. There’s no reason for people to invade your personal space in normal, everyday situations. Always move away if people seem uncomfortably close. 

4. Stay away from dangerous areas. This may seem like a no-brainer but many people feel like it’s too much trouble to find another way or that they are being unnecessarily cautious. The fact is that poorly lit parking lots, dark, empty streets and other desolate areas really are the most dangerous areas. Take the long way home or walk with a large group of people.  

5. Remember your weapons. Scream, wield your car keys, swing your umbrella, jab your elbows- everyone is equipped with natural weapons and you shouldn’t be afraid to use them when your safety is at risk. Consider taking a course in basic self-defense to learn how to use your strength to its best advantage.

Social Events:

1. When going on dates, always tell a friend or family member who you are with and where you will be- even if you have known the person a long time.

2. Go to large parties in groups. Look out for each other and always make sure that everyone you came with is there with you when you leave.

3. Never leave your drink unattended. Don’t accept drinks from other people. 

4. If someone familiar- your date, your boyfriend or your husband- is forcing you to have sex when you are saying “no,” use the R-word. Calmly say something like, “I said no, are you really going to rape me?” In almost all cases, being confronted with the truth of what they are about to do will scare them out of it.

If You Are the Victim of Rape or Sexual Assault:

Get help immediately. Find a safe, secure place well away from the attacker or attack site. Ask a trusted friend or family member to stay with you at all times. If you can’t do this, call a hotline such as 1-800-656-HOPE to talk to someone confidentially and find out what options you have. Write down all the details that you can about the attack and the attacker. Don’t brush your teeth or wash up, head to a hospital and request a rape kit. If you suspect that you have been drugged, ask for a urine test.

Find a counselor through a hotline service or your medical facilities. With their help, report the crime to the police. 

Even if a lot of time has passed since the attack, you may still be suffering.  It’s not your fault and it’s never too late to call for help. 

If You Know Someone Who Has Been the Victim of a Sexual Assault: