Crime Prevention Tip

Rape and Assault Prevention Checklist 

In your home:                                                      

1. Install adequate locks on all exterior doors and change locks each time you move.
2. Don't advertise living alone; use initials on mailbox and in phone book.
3. Do not hide a key anywhere.
4. Don't admit uninvited salesmen or strangers into your home.
5. Complete outside chores before dark.
6. Use exterior lighting when home or away.
7. Trim shrubberies low so criminals won't have a hiding place.
8. Secure outside ladders and trash cans, and discard unused boxes to discourage peepers.
9. Don't advertise your absence during weddings, funerals, and vacations.
10. Close blinds, shades, and drapes at night.
11. Hang up immediately on unknown phone callers.
12. Be cautious when volunteering information to telephone surveys.
13. Keep a flashlight near the phone in case you need to dial 911 in the dark.
14. Report suspicious persons and loiterers to police.
15. Establish a "buddy system" with a trusted neighbor and watch each other's property.
16. Vary your routine a little each day. Most rapes are planned.
17. Most importantly, consider creating a "safe room" within your home that incorporates a solid wood or steel door with a deadbolt and reenforced door frame.  Use it as a safe place to retreat if necessary.

In your car:

1. Keep car doors locked and windows rolled up at all times; always check rear seat before entering car.
2. Have key in hand before reaching car; don't put identification on your key ring.
3. Use well-lighted main thoroughfares and always park in well-lighted areas.
4. Do not leave items containing any personal information inside your vehicle.  This includes anything with your address, phone number or any financial information.  Instead, keep such forms/paperwork with you in your wallet or purse and available to present if it is requested of you.
5. Do not hitchhike or pick up a hitchhiker.
6. If you are being followed by another car, don't go home. Head for a well-lighted, well-populated area or drive to the police station and blow the horn. Get a description of the vehicle.
7. Always be mindful of your exact location. (block, street, mile marker, etc...)
8. Don't stop to offer help to a stranded motorist. Note the location and stop at the next phone booth or use your cellular phone to call police or highway patrol.
9. Leave only your ignition key for mechanics or parking lot attendants.
10. Do not display personalized license plates that may reveal your identity.

On the street:

1. Choose well-lighted streets and bus stops, staying near the curb. Avoid alleys and shrubbery.
2. Invite a friend to walk with you.
3. If you are followed, get away fast. Change directions or head for open businesses.
4. If approached by a stranger, run to the center of the street and don't hesitate to call for help.
5. If attacked, yell "Fire" instead of "Rape." It gets a better response.
6. Don't walk alone if you are depressed, exhausted, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
7. Stay alert and walk at a steady pace. Look like you know where you are going. Don't pass through groups of men. Carry a flashlight if it's almost dark.
8. Do not give directions or other information to strangers; stand away from their cars to avoid being grabbed.
9. A dog on a leash is a good deterrent to a criminal.
10. Be extra cautious of elevators and stairways in office and apartment buildings.
11. Leave work and meetings with others and watch until they are in their cars.
12. Refrain from displaying large sums of money when shopping.
13. Don't leave your purse unattended on store counters, in shopping carts, or fitting rooms.
14. An aerosol spray, keys, a whistle, or a nail file can be used for your protection.
15. Light and noise are the best deterrents to a criminal.

If you choose to carry any type of weapon for self-protection, give careful consideration to your ability and willingness to use it. Remember there is always the chance that it could be taken away and used against you.

Lower your risk factors and you will lower the chances of being assaulted or raped. Following these tips will help.

Local Resources:

Rape & Abuse Crisis Service : Hotline/634-4911  Office/634-8346 or visit them on the web at www.racsjc.org

Useful Links:

Cole County Victim's Advocate (Nikki Nunn/634-9186 ext. 3225)

National Center for Victims of Crime