Authorities say than nearly one-third of women will be raped during their lifetime. Of those victims, nearly 80 percent will be sexually assaulted by someone they know. It's a sobering thought, but there are several things that women can do to protect themselves and lessen their chances of becoming the target of a sexual predator.
At Home
There are several things you can do at home to increase your security. In addition, it's a good idea to learn self defense by reading up on the subject, watching an instructional video, or attending a self-defense class. Follow these additional tips:
- Make sure the outside of your house is well-lit. If streetlights are out in your neighborhood, call the appropriate department to have them repaired.
- Keep your hedges and trees trimmed. Overgrown hedges are easier to hide in.
- Lock your windows and doors, even if you are home.
- Install a door with a peephole so you can see who is at the door before opening it.
- At night, keep your curtains, shades, or blinds closed.
- Install a safety chain so that you can speak through the door without it being pushed open.
- Enroll in self defence training and learn how to carry yourself with confidence when you take an evening walk.
Out and About
Whenever you are out, stay alert. Focus on what is going on in the background and don't let yourself be distracted by your music player or cell phone.
- Women who are not paying attention make easier targets for rape. Think about it, if you are texting while you walk to your car, you won't be prepared if someone sneaks up on you.
- Stay away from alleys, narrow streets, and poorly lit areas. Always use popular streets and walking paths.
- If you are walking at night, walk in a group or call someone to pick you up. If you must walk by yourself, it's a good idea to keep pepper spray or another defensive weapon with you to be on the safe side.
- Don't go to unfamiliar places. If something should happen and you need to call the police, you want to be able to give them your specific location.
At Parties
Not all rapists sneak around in alleys late at night. Date rape is another real problem. When you are at a party or other social event, keep these tips in mind:
- Keep your drink with you all the time. Don't let another person grab a drink for you. If you set your drink down to do something else, don't drink from it again.
- Don't leave the party alone or get a ride home with someone you don't trust. Call a cab or a trusted friend if you have had alcohol at the party and are unable to drive yourself home.
By following these suggestions potential attackers will see that you are not an easy target, and you can help protect yourself from being a victim of rape.
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