Trust Your Instincts

The very first thing to remember is that your gut instinct is highly reliable. Trust it. Many sexual assault survivors say that they had a "funny feeling" before the assault, but thought they were overreacting. Alcohol can suppress these feelings too. If your intuition tells you that something is wrong, or if you feel threatened or uncomfortable in any situation, try to get to a safe place as soon as possible.

If you're feeling it's unfair to have to think about these safety tips all the time, you're right. However, it's important that you keep yourself as safe as possible. The two key themes in self-protection are awareness of surroundings and assertiveness for yourself. Sexual assault counselors are trained to provide information on self-protection strategies. They can answer questions regarding the suggestions listed above and help locate self-defense courses or counseling in your area.

Safety When Out With Friends

• Carry enough change to make a phone call.
• Carry the Yellow Cab number (carry enough money for a ride home, or UVa students can pay later through the office of the Dean of Students).
• Confront offensive behavior and leave if you are uncomfortable.
• Meet at a neutral place.
• Be aware that use of alcohol or other drugs hampers your ability to defend yourself.
• If you feel "strange" about a situation, you have the right to leave, even if your companion has not done anything obvious. That instinctive feeling is a natural form of self-protection.

Safety at Home

• Install locks on all doors and windows. Use them.
• Know your neighbors, especially those who can be called in an emergency. Having emergency signals worked out (i.e., whistle blasts during the day, flashing lights at night) can help. Working with the Neighborhood Watch can also be effective.
• Avoid places where attackers might hide (bushes, alleys, etc.).
• Maintain good visibility around your home. Trim shrubs and trees.
• Make sure all areas are well lighted.
• Install a peep-hole in your front door. If you can't do that, always ask "Who's there?" before opening the door. Many women also call out "I'll get it, Jack!" to show they are not alone.
• Before opening the door to any repair or utility worker, demand identification from the person at your door. It is wise to check this identification by phone or ask a neighbor to keep you company while the repairman or guest is in your home.
• Teach children not to open the door to anyone or tell any phone caller where you are or when you will return.
• If you are a renter, you may request, in writing, that your landlord repair or install locks on doors and windows. Your landlord is responsible for keeping such areas as the front and back of the building, hallways, and courtyards well-lighted.

Safety On The Street

Research has shown that people who stand straight, walk with a firm step, look ahead rather than down, and act like they know where they are going are less likely to be seen as possible victims. It is not necessary to stop and be polite when a stranger or slight acquaintance asks a question in a public place. It's okay to answer "I don't know" and walk on, or not to answer at all. It is not necessary to let anyone force you into an association you don't want. Repeating firmly and with conviction, "NO, I don't want to do that!" has worked for some people.

• Keep one hand free when carrying packages.
• Avoid dark, empty places.
• Listen for footsteps. Turn around if you think you are being followed and check. If you think someone is following you, cross the street, yell, and if possible, run to the nearest lighted area where there are other people.
• Have door keys and car keys ready before you approach your car or home.
• Avoid walking alone if you are distracted, upset, or under the influence of any substance that might impair your action.
• Be especially alert in elevators, parking structures, supermarket and mall parking lots, and laundromats. Enter these places with a friend or coworker whenever possible.

Safety While Traveling by Car or by Bus

• Always check the front, back, and underneath of your car before entering. If someone is in your car, leave immediately.
• Make sure your gas tank is not empty.
• Keep car doors locked at all times.
• Lock your car when you leave it, even if you'll only be gone a few minutes.
• If you are followed, blow your horn and, if possible, drive to a police station.
• When waiting for the bus, stand behind the bus bench, balanced and ready for action.
• Keep packages, purses, etc. tucked under your arm.
• Sit by the driver if unsure of the route.
• Stay awake in the bus.
• Have money for emergency calls.
• Notice who gets off at your stop.