by Margaret Crites

Created on: February 15, 2007   Last Updated: May 02, 2007

As with any crime, the blame and responsibility falls squarely on the shoulders of the perpetrator of the crime. However, as with any crime, there are things you can do to reduce the chances of being vulnerable. These are just general guidelines for reducing your vulnerability to being a victim of any crime, including rape. It is important to keep in mind first and foremost, that even if you follow these guidelines to the letter and still become a victim - it is solely the fault of the perpetrator. People who commit violent felonies, choose their behavior. That being said, it is vital that people learn to trust their instincts when people around them behave in new or scary ways.

First - awareness. Be aware of the crime trends in your community. Be aware of your own vulnerabilities: do you have lots of people you know to various degrees in and out of your home? Do you go to parties and get drunk or high to the point where you no longer make sound decisions? Are you generally in your home each day or night on a regular schedule and have only limited contact with strangers or near strangers? At what point would you confront a friend who was behaving inappropriately? Do your relationships now include belittling behaviors or violence or emotional abuse?

Also in awareness, it is important to notice the people and activities around you. Is someone behaving in a manner that is unusual for them as you know them? Are there solicitors going from door to door? Are people who don't live in your neighborhood "hanging out"? Does a friend talk about violence and wanting to do violence in a way that makes you uncomfortable? It is important to be aware of the fact that a person is much much more likely to be sexually assaulted by someone they know well enough to be alone with than a stranger.

Second - basic safety habits. Don't give out personal information on line, in stores, over the phone, across rooms, etc. Lock doors. Be reliable as to being where you say you're going to be and being back on time. Learn to call when your plans change. You are under no obligation to open your door to anyone you don't recognize or you've not invited to your home. Also, if someone in your home is acting strangely or in a way that frightens you, you have the right to ask them to leave.

Third - escape routes/getting attention. Look at your day to day routine, and think about how you would escape someone who might be making you uncomfortable. If you could not escape, how might you attract attention

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