SAFETY IN SOCIAL SITUATIONS
Approximately 34% of the women sexually assaulted were acquainted with the men who attacked them. The large majority of these relationships (about 80%) were categorized as casual at best. Women attacked by acquaintances frequently had been involved in some social activity with the assailants. Most of these assaults took place in his car (70%) or at his home (24%).

When going out, watch the amount of alcohol you use, especially when casually acquainted with the man. About one-fourth of the victims had been using alcohol or drugs before the assault, with most of these women being drunk at the time of the assault. Remember that drugs and alcohol can alter the personality of the person you are with. Meeting new people at bars and other social nightspots is a popular pastime. These places offer expanded opportunities to establish relationships with men. In establishing a relationship, a woman may be expected to ride home with the new acquaintance. She may not refuse the ride for fear of terminating a potential relationship. Saying no, however, may be considerably safer.

When meeting new people trust your instincts. Pay attention to what the person is saying and how he is acting. Don't leave with anyone you have just met. Don't give out personal information such as your phone number or address. Take his number and contact him. The unthinking acceptance of rides or assistance from strangers or casual acquaintances increases the potential for sexual assault. Let someone know where and with whom you are going when you go out, especially when you are only casually acquainted with the man. Also, let someone know when you will return. Agree to meet a new acquaintance at a public place where other people are present. Plan ahead and always be prepared to find your own means home. Don't remain passive if anyone touches you when you don't want to be touched. Attract attention. Let him and other people know that you object to being touched.

SAFETY AT WORK
Many women feel secure at their places of work. However, five percent of sexual assault victims said they were working when attacked. The majority of these attacks took place during the day. Areas such as rest rooms, stairwells and elevators are potential sites for attacks. Too frequently, the security around the workplace is taken for granted. To protect yourself while on the job, all you need to do is to take a few simple precautions. First, you should have access to a phone and know the emergency numbers for security and the police department. Don't hesitate to call security or the police if a stranger looks out of place or is hanging around. Don't advertise your schedule for coming to or leaving work, especially when you are going to work late. Let people (such as the security guard, fellow employees, family members, or friends that you can rely on) know when you are working early or are alone late in the building.

If you are going to leave work late at night, park in a lighted area as close to the building as possible. Don't leave the building alone at night. Ask the security guard to accompany you or walk with other employees, if possible. Don't leave valuables in sight. Purses and other items of value left out may attract not only the thief but also someone who may sexually assault a woman. Keep them locked in a desk or a locker and keep the office door locked if possible.

Don't wear clothing such as tight skirts, which will restrict your ability to physically resist or run from an attack, especially when you are working after hours. Avoid wearing shoes that limit your movement. If your building has elevators, be sure to look before getting in to be sure no one is hiding, especially after hours. Check to make sure that the emergency hatch is in place; if it's ajar - DON'T GO IN - someone could be hiding on top of the elevator. Get in the habit of always standing near the controls and watch who gets on with you. If someone suspicious enters, especially if you're alone - get off.