NCJ Number
117502
Date Published
1989
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This booklet advises women on self-protection measures in their homes, outside their homes, in the cars, and upon entering their houses.
Abstract
Suggestions for personal security at home include keeping external doors locked while at home, using a doorchain or doorlimiter and viewer when answering the door, and checking the identities of unknown callers. Security advice for outside the home is to carry a handsize alarm, scream and run the opposite direction if threatened by a person in a car, run to a busy place if being followed, and follow routes that are well lit and populated. Other advice is to avoid isolated bus stops and seats in isolated compartments on mass transportation. Recommendations for personal security in a car are to keep valuables hidden from view, drive on well-lit roads, and have sufficient fuel and money for the trip. Women should park in well-lit areas and determine that the area is safe before leaving the vehicle. In case of attack, the decision about whether to resist depends on the circumstances. Weapons that could be used to fight back are umbrellas, hairspray, or car keys. Suggestions are also offered for preventing car burglaries and what to do following a rape to maximize the evidence that will be available to the police.