How To Safeguard Against Rape

If you are a female, chances are one in ten that you will be a victim of sexual assault.

An attacker makes no distinction between race, age, appearance, or any other characteristic.

COMMON SENSE is your best defense against attack.

Because every rape is different, there is no one solution for thwarting an attack; however, keep in mind...

The attacker must have the opportunity and privacy to be able to assault you.

Be aware of your surroundings

Walk and talk with confidence

Don't look or act like a victim

Have a plan in mind of what you will do if ever attacked

If you are attacked, evaluate the situation and look for ways to escape.

Some women have avoided rape by talking their way out of it,

by acting crazy, or by fighting back - A kick in the groin MAY NOT work successfully - you may lose your balance If you do decide to respond physically, remember that your first priority is to get away

DO NOT BE AFRAID TO DO ANYTHING NECESSARY TO ACCOMPLISH THIS. Don't worry about hurting the attacker.

YOUR safety and escape are the ONLY things you should worry about

Act quickly and decisively to throw the attacker off guard in your escape plan

After An Attack

Seek IMMEDIATE medical attention. Do NOTHING ELSE until you do this.

PRESERVE THE EVIDENCE, ie., Don't change your clothes, wash off, or disturb the scene of the crime.

You call, or have the medical facility call the police immediately.

If the above steps are not available to you, at least Get to a safe place and follow the steps above as soon as you can.

Medical attention is vital!

Many hospitals provide free care for rape victims and offer venereal disease treatment.

REMEMBER: Even if you don't get immediate help, follow-up tests for venereal disease (VD) are essential.

NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, be embarrassed to seek help. Though, it might be difficult to talk about, it is vitally important to tell the doctors what sex acts took place so they will know what medical attention is needed

Try to remember, even in the smallest detail, your exact experience, to assist the police.

It is extremely important that you give an accurate and complete description of your assailant.

Your complete cooperation with all authorities may help, not only in more attacks by your assailant, but in a swift capture and justice.

MEDICAL CONTACTS

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