Suggestions on How to Avoid Rape Situations

April 21, 1983. Some may wonder why the topic of rape would be included in a column of marriage. The reality is that approximately 50% of rapes in the United States occur in the victim’s home. And many of these women are married.

In last week’s column I encouraged readers to re-examine some of their attitudes about rape. This week some suggestions will be given on how it might be avoided.

The Utah Council on Criminal Justice Administration and the Utah County Rape Intervention Center have some recommendation in their brochures. For instance, while you are at home, lock all doors and windows when alone, particularly at night time. Put curtains and blinds on all windows, and keep them drawn during the late night hours.

Vary your routine a little each day, since most rapes are planned long in advance. In addition, get to know your neighbors well. You may need their assistance in an emergency such as this.

The booklets suggest that you never give personal information to strangers at the door or on the phone. Do not let them know you are in the house alone or the time when others are expected to return. If an unidentified stranger or “repairman” comes to your door, make him wait outside until you are satisfied that it is safe for him to enter.

Avoid waiting alone in dark alleys or streets and don’t wear restrictive clothing such as high-heeled shoes, or long tight skirts or anything else that would prevent you from running, one of your best defenses. Turn down rides in automobiles from strangers, especially ones who change their direction of travel to give you a lift. Have your keys ready when you approach your car, home or apartment, and enter immediately.

If you think you are in danger, start screaming. You might also carry a whistle or other noise maker because rapists apparently hate loud noises that attract attention. If you are followed, change directions and head for an open theater, restaurant, or store. If you have to, break a window to get attention.

If you are walking and a man stops his car and asks you for directions, do not walk over to him. If he speaks too softly, stand where you are and ask him to speak louder.

When riding or driving your own car, lock it and roll up the windows before you leave it and each time you enter it. Have your keys ready when you approach your car and check the back seat every time you enter. A potential rapist can easily hide behind the back seat in an automobile. If you have any trouble while on the road, and particularly late at night, raise your hood and tie a white cloth to your aerial. Stay inside your car with the doors locked until help arrives. Ask anyone who stops to phone or ask for help at nearest phone or service station.

By taking some of these precautions, many rape situations might be avoided. If, however, you do confront a rapist, the most accepted defense is to throw your attacker off guard. Kick, scream, bite, scratch, pinch or poke, and then run. Don’t try to overpower your attacker. Just distract him and then get away fast.

If, after doing all these things, the rape is still enacted, you should tell the first person you meet. Point out the rapist to others if he is still around. Call the police or local rape crisis center immediately. And seek medical help for possible venereal disease, pregnancy, or possible internal injuries.

You may also want psychological counseling to help deal with the emotional aspects of your ordeal. Don’t try to hide what has happened, and allow professional people to assist you. Don’t wait! When rape occurs, the victim needs immediate attention. So do not bathe, douche or change clothing until you have talked to a police officer or other professional person who might assist.