Rape prevention

Rape is a real and very frightening concern for many women. There are some things you can do to prevent a rape experience.

When out walking:

• walk with a friend or in a group, there is safety in numbers
• avoid areas with heavy vegetation and other hiding places and
• keep an eye out for danger. Stay alert to what is going on around you

When driving:

• have your keys out and ready to use immediately when you reach your car
• avoid driving alone
• keep your doors locked and your valuables out of sight
• drive to a police station or public place if you sense that you are being followed by another car and
• leave some space between you and the car ahead of you while waiting at a traffic signal, so that you can pull out if someone approaches your car and tries to get in

When at home:

• do not open the door to strangers and
• keep all doors and windows locked, and the exterior lights on

Take a self-defense course to develop important safety skills to protect against an attacker. If you are attacked, blow a whistle or use mace or pepper spray. Yell loudly for help, break a window to make noise, and try to run as soon as possible. Avoid begging, pleading, or crying as this may increase the attacker's sense of power over you. Never get into a car with an attacker. Fight back by kicking, swinging elbows, or thrusting the heel of your hand under the attacker's jaw.

If you are raped:

• Contact the police or a rape crisis center.
• Go to an emergency room for an examination, treatment for any injuries, and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy. Medical facts will be taken during the physical examination that can be used in criminal charges against the rapist.
• Do NOT shower, bathe, or change clothes before undergoing a physical examination.
• Have a nurse or rape crisis counselor present for support during the physical examination and evidence collection procedure.
• Get counseling from a professional who specializes in helping victims recover from rape.

Remember, rape is not the victim's fault. Rape victims experience a multitude of feelings including confusion, shame, anger, and fear.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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