Students and employees can do much to protect themselves from crime. Many crimes occur only because there was an opportunity for them to happen. For example, most crimes of burglary and theft are random, not calculated. They occur because a residence door or window is left unsecured or because car doors were left unlocked. Locking doors and windows, securing valuables in your car trunk are methods of reducing temptation and opportunity which can result in a thwarted burglary or theft.

Personal protection is also important. When walking, plan the safest and most well lit route. Be aware of your surroundings including persons, places and things.

Date/Acquaintance Rape

1. Select your date with caution

2. Have dates in public places

3. Use alcohol sparingly

4. Set your limits

5. Never leave functions or events with a stranger or someone you just met

Stranger Rape

1. Never walk alone after dark

2. Walk in well-lit areas only

3. Never hitchhike

4. Have car keys in hand when approaching your car

5. Keep car windows up and doors locked once inside

6. Check back seat and floorboard before getting in car

7. Park in well-lit areas

8. Never pick up hitchhikers

9. Raise hood if you have car trouble, then remain in your locked car

10. Ask a stopped motorist to call police for you

11. Don't stop to help stranded motorists

12. Always close and lock your door once you enter your house

13. Know who is at the door before opening it

14. Never give your address or phone number to a stranger

15. Be alert for suspicious people

Protective Measures Against Rape

1. Be assertive - Say "NO!" firmly

2. Be rude

3. Make noise, scream or honk your car horn

4. Act crazy - threaten to throw up

5. Make every effort to get away

6. If all else fails, use physical resistance

7. Fight to survive, never give up

Crime Victims

1. Report the crime to police immediately

2. Remain calm and try to remember the physical description of your attacker

3. Try to recall the circumstances as they happened, in chronological order

4. Seek medical help if injured or raped

5. Don't change clothes or wash clothes as they may contain crucial DNA evidence

6. Never bathe after a sexual assault

7. Don't disturb anything in the area where the assault or crime occurred

Remember, you can take steps to protect yourself from being the victim of a crime, educate yourself, protect yourself, and report all criminal activity or suspected criminal activity to the Campus Police or your local police department.

Contact the Campus Police for information on available educational programs that promote the awareness of rape, date rape, and other sex-related offenses.

Also visit: crimepreventiontips.org for more useful crime prevention tips.