Rape and Sexual Assault

RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT IS A CRIME!

Protective Measures
Rape is a violent crime, an invasion, and frightening
experience for all everyone.
Rape does not discriminate, it affects all ages, race or
economicstatus.
Everyone is a potential victim of sexual assault.

By being aware, you can reduce the likelihood of
becoming a Rape victim. This does not mean all
rapes can be prevented.
Rapists commit rape -- NOT VICTIMS.

Psychological Preparedness
Accept the fact that you are a potential rape victim.
Many people operate under the illusion "it will
never happen to me. It happens to other people
all the time.
Educate yourself concerning rape prevention
tactics.
Become familiar with community rape prevention
and counseling.
Become aware of locations and situations where
rape is more likely to occur and avoid them, or take
precautions.

In a Dating/Friend Situation
The majority of rapes that occur are termed
"acquaintance rapes" - the rapist and victim know
one another. Trust your feelings. If you become
uncomfortable in a situation, assertively ask the
person to leave. Don't worry about hurt feelings.
If possible, let a friend or roommate know who you
are with and where you will be. Leave an address
and phone number when possible.

In Your Car
Keep windows and doors locked.
When parking at night, select a place that will be
well-lit when returning to the car.
Always make sure the car is locked, and have the
keys ready when returning to the car.
Check interior of car before getting in.

On the Street
1. Be observant of things around you.
2. Walk near the curb and avoid passing close to
shrubbery, dark doorways and other places of
concealment.
3. DO NOT HITCHHIKE.
4. Avoid short cuts through parking lots and alleys.
5. Walk with a friend if at all possible. Don't walk
alone.
6. Don't jog in secluded areas.

In Your Home
Be sure to keep your doors locked.
All entrances and garages should be well-lit.
Remember to ask for ID if allowing a service
person into your home. If in doubt do not let
them in

If You have been Sexually Assaulted
Do not panic. Look for a way to escape.
If the attacker is unarmed, you may be able
to scare, distract or injure the person enough to
make your escape.
If you are unable to escape
Be observant so that you will be able to
rememberand identify the assailant.
Report the incident to the police as soon as possible.
Do not shower, or clean up, or change clothing.
Have a medical exam/internal gynecological
exam ASAP.
REMEMBER:
1) Semen smears must be taken by the hospital.
2)Have a test for venereal diseases (and
pregnancy later, if relevant).
3) Do not disturb the scene of the assault.
4)Inform police of all details of attack, however
intimate, and of anything unusual you may have
noted about the attacker.
Do not be ashamed to tell all. This may help them
find your abuser faster. Take him of the street.
5) Police may request your clothes for purpose
of evidence.

RAPE IS A CRIME!