Protecting Yourself From Stranger Rape and Date Rape
Safety considerations to protect yourself from stranger rape and date rape.
TO AVOID STRANGER RAPE
At Home
- Use deadbolts; window locks; peepholes; 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 the 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 the 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 the building for car, or leaving the car for building.
- Drive with windows mostly closed.
- Keep the car in good working order and keep the gas tank at least 1/4 full.
- In case of a breakdown, stay in the 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.
Remember: No matter how many or how few safety precautions you use, it is never your fault if you are raped.
next: Supporting Someone Who Has Been Raped or Sexually Assaulted
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APA Reference
Staff, H.
(2008, November 18). Protecting Yourself From Stranger Rape and Date Rape, HealthyPlace. Retrieved
on 2024, September 7 from https://www.healthyplace.com/abuse/articles/stranger-rape-and-date-rape-how-to-protect-yourself