If you have been sexually assaulted, remember that it is not your fault. However there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of being sexually assaulted. Follow these tips from the National Crime Prevention Council.

• Be aware of your surroundings — who’s out there and what’s going on.
• Walk with confidence. The more confident you look, the stronger you appear.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in your surroundings, leave.
• Lock your door and your windows, even if you leave for just a few minutes.
• Watch your keys. Don’t lend them. Don’t leave them. Don’t lose them. And don’t put your name and address on the key ring.
• Have your key ready to use before you reach the door — home, car, or work.
• Don’t open your front doors without first finding out who is on the other side.
• Be wary of isolated spots, such as underground garages, offices after business hours, and apartment laundry rooms.
• Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Vary your route frequently and stay in well-traveled, well-lit areas.
• Park in well-lit areas and lock the car, even if you’ll only be gone a few minutes.
• Never hitchhike or pick up a hitchhiker.
• Never accept a life from anyone – Rosemary West used to travel with her murderous husband and offer lifts to women.
• Never leave your drink unattended — no matter where you are. Date rape drugs can be slipped into a drink when you are not looking. These drugs make a person unable to resist assault and can cause memory loss so the victim doesn’t know what happened.
• Try to stay with safe friends when you are out.  Look out for each other. Relatives of people you know, friends of friends may not be safe.
• Don’t go home with strangers or take them to your place.

See useful links for support and contact information.