Sexual Assault

Sexual assault and rape are often misconstrued as one and the same crime, when in fact they are not. The U.S. Department of Justice defines rape and sexual assault as follows:

Rape is forced intercourse by physical or psychological coercion. Rape includes vaginal, anal or oral penetration by the offender or a foreign object. Rape also includes attempted rape.

Sexual assault is any nonconsensual sexual contact (or attempted attack) between the victim and sexual offender that may or may not involve force. Instances of sexual assault include grabbing, fondling, exposure and verbal threats.

Avoid becoming a victim of sexual assault or date rape with these safety precautions:

• Don't invite strangers or acquaintances to your home or go to theirs.
• Carry a whistle, portable alarm, mace or pepper spray if you must travel alone.
• Use peepholes before opening doors.
• Never indicate that you're alone.
• Draw curtains and shades at night.
• Check in and under vehicles before entering.
• Remain inside the vehicle with doors locked if your car breaks down. Carry a cell phone or ask those to approach to call police.
• Avoid isolated places at night & parking garages, laundries, streets.
• Walk confidently at a steady pace.
• Walk facing traffic.
• Avoid vehicles and driver's asking for directions.
• Keep doors locked to help prevent car-jacking.
• Don't hitchhike.
• List only your last name and first initials in the phone book and on mail boxes.
• Get your key ready before entering your car/home.
• Keep a telephone near your bed at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• If fearful attract attention by shouting.

Click on the shopping links above to access some of the leading online suppliers of personal security and portable alarms.

Other Personal Alarm areas:

Burglary
Securing Your Home
Sexual Assault
Sexual Assault Facts
Date Rape
Portable Alarms
Personal Security
Car Jacking
Home Invasion
Reacting to Home Invasion

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