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There Are Ways Women Can Enhance Their Safety

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By KEITH MORELLI | The Tampa Tribune

Published: April 25, 2008

TAMPA - While authorities continued to search for a man they say raped and severely beat a teenager outside the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library late last night, victims' rights advocates offer tips on how not to become a victim of a violent crime.

According to the Safety For Women Web site, being alone at night can be dangerous for women. Generally, if you are alone and you sense any problem, you should change your route and prepare to either flee or defend yourself.

There are lots of precautions that can be taken. Here are a few offered by the Web site:

•Never wear conspicuous jewelry when you are walking alone.

•Never hitchhike. Use public transportation or a taxi if you don't have a ride.

•Never act or look like an easy target. That means having an air of confidence and determination is essential.

•Most physical confrontations are decided before they even start. Most aggressors will back down if you maintain eye contact and show that you are not intimidated.

When Taking Public Transportation:

•If there are a lot of people around, you are safest. Avoid waiting at a stop alone. Rather, wait in a nearby business until others show up at the stop or the bus arrives.

•Avoid sitting next to the window, as you may be blocked in by an assailant. Always sit on the aisle, which allows you a quick exit route.

•After hours, always sit near the front of the bus, behind the driver or next to the door.

In Motor Vehicles:

•Most assaults happen when you are stepping out of your car or walking to your car.

•Always approach your vehicle with the keys ready. This allows you go get in quickly without having to fumble through your purse for the keys.

•Windows always should be rolled up and the doors locked even when you are driving, as assailants have been known to jump into unlocked vehicles stopped at traffic lights.

•Always check the inside of the car before getting in.

•Always lock your car, even if you just leave it for a few minutes. The time it takes you to return a video or pop into the convenience store is enough time for someone to jump in.

•Never get into a car with someone who is holding a gun or knife on you. Just turn and run and scream or whatever it takes to draw attention. Getting into a car limits your chances of escape.

•Never pull your car over in isolated areas. If something is amiss, always drive to a well-lit area where there are other people.

•Be alert in parking lots, particularly after dark. Don't hesitate to ask someone to escort you to your car if you sense danger.

For Walkers Or Joggers:

•Walk against the traffic so you can see what is coming.

•If you see a car following you, run back in the direction from which you came.

•Avoid using a portable stereo when walking in isolated areas. It tends to keep you from being alert.

•Change your routines from day to day.

•Make note of houses or businesses at intervals along your route that may be used as "safe houses."

•Be alert at all times.

Public Phones:

•When making a call from a public phone, always turn around so your back is to the phone and you can see what is coming. That way, you can tell the person on the other end of the call that you may be in trouble.

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