Safety Tips For Women

Purse Snatch

Do not carry a bag that makes you a target. A bag that dangles from the shoulder can be easily yanked off your shoulder by someone coming up from behind.
Do not carry your bag in such a manner that you can't let it go if you have to. Many women have been injured because their own bags acted as handcuffs as a purse snatcher yanked it away.
Be aware of your surroundings and carry your bag close to your body, tucked in the bend of your elbow.
Minimize the amount of money and credit cards that you carry with you on a daily basis. Divide your money between pockets and bags.
If you are the victim of a purse snatch do not fight to hold onto your bag, especially if there is a weapon involved.

Coming Home Late At Night

Avoid shortcuts that are not well traveled or well lit.
Know what reputable stores are open in your neighborhood late at night. If you suspect that you are being followed stay away from lonely quiet blocks and head for the store you know to be open.
When walking to your car or on your way home, keep your keys in your hand until you are safely inside for added protection.
If someone drops you off at home by auto, ask the driver to wait until you safely inside.
If a motorist bothers you while you are walking turn around and walk in the opposite direction of the car. Do this as often necessary and he should get discouraged.

If You Are Driving

Keep windows rolled up, except for a small ventilation space and keep your doors locked.
If someone attempts to force you off the road, don't panic.....blow your horn constantly to attract attention. If you are forced over, as you stop put your car in reverse and back away....keep blowing the horn and moving the car as much as possible.
If you suspect that someone is following you make a few turns down active streets if possible. If the auto you suspect is following you makes the same turns as you then head for the nearest police station, fire house or open store. Don't try to make it to your own quiet residential area.
Try to park your car in a well lighted area, this is not only good from the standpoint of discouraging a personal attack on you but also for reducing the chance of auto theft. Look around before you get out of your car.
Before getting into your car, look inside first to make sure no one is hiding in the back seat. When leaving your car, make sure it is locked.

At Home

Have your key ready before you get to the front door.
Make sure your entrance area is well lighted.
If you live in an apartment don't be polite and hold the lobby door open for a stranger who has been waiting.
List only your last name and first initial on your mailbox.
Don't buzz someone inside unless you know them.
If a stranger wants to use your phone for any kind of call from business to emergency.....keep him out and you make the call for them! Any problems or in doubt? Call the police!
If you arrive home and find your door open DO NOT GO INSIDE. Call the police from a pay phone or neighbors house and ask them to meet you.
Don't get on the elevator with a stranger if your own judgment warns you against it -- need an excuse to avoid embarrassment say something like; "Oh I forgot my mail."

If You Are The Victim Of A Rape

Report crime immediately to Police. Call 9-1-1.
Do not wash or douche.
Have a medical exam and internal gynecological exam as soon as possible accompanied by a police officer preferably.
Inform doctor of exact acts committed upon you and have him note any medical evidence of them.
Semen smears must be taken by the doctor.
Doctor should note any bruises or injuries (bleeding, lacerations, etc.) External or internal.
Have the doctor test for venereal diseases (and pregnancy later if relevant).
Inform the police of all details of attack, however intimate, and of anything unusual you may have noted about the attacker, remember, what he said and how he said it may lead to his arrest.
Show police any external bruises or injuries however minor, resulting from the attack. Also show them to a friend or relative who might be available as a corroborative witness at the trial.
Give the undergarments to the police.
Give any torn or stained clothing to the police.
When calm, make note of events of attack, unusual details, etc.