Sexual Assault Prevention

TO AVOID STRANGER RAPE

AT HOME:

• Use deadbolts; window locks; peep holes; 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 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 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 building for car, or leaving car for building. 
   
  
• Drive with windows mostly closed. 
   
  
• Keep car in good working order and keep gas tank at least 1/4 full.
    
  
• In case of a breakdown, stay in 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 co-workers. 
   

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. 
   

IF YOU HAVE BEEN RAPED:

• Tell someone you trust. 
   
  
• Call the police immediately. 
   
  

• Go to the hospital or a doctor. 
   
  

• Do not wash, shower, douche, urinate or defecate (if possible). 
   
  

• Do not change your clothes or anything about the scene where the crime took place.
   
  

• Do not eat, drink, or smoke.
  You could destroy evidence which may be needed later.

 

Call for support of a Rape Crisis worker: 

1-302- 761-9100
IN NEW CASTLE COUNTY

1-800-262-9800
IN KENT AND SUSSEX COUNTIES

Rape is not a
Sexual Act.

It is an act of
Violence.