There is no perfect way to protect yourself, but there are simple things you can do to minimize your risk.  Just take a few minutes to think about what you do... And remember-

BE ALERT!

* Show that you are in control - walk with confidence.
* Be aware of your surroundings - know where you are going and the route you will take.
* Do not let alcohol or drugs cloud your judgment.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS!

* Uneasy?   Uncomfortable?  GET OUT!!!
* Do not be embarrassed to make a scene.  You know what is best for you.

MAKE IT A HABIT! - INSIDE YOUR RESIDENCE

* Do not leave doors unlocked or propped open. It may be a hassle, but the safety is worth it.
* Watch your keys.  Do not lend them.  Do not leave them.  Do not lose them.  And do not put your name and address of your keyring.
* Watch out for unwanted visitors.  Know who is on the other side of the door before you open it.   Make use of the door viewer (peephole).
* Uninvited guests?  Demand they leave or you leave, quickly.
* Do not place valuables or cash in a dresser or desk drawer.  If you and/or your roommates plan to have visitors, lock the door to your bedroom.

MAKE IT A HABIT! - OUTSIDE YOUR RESIDENCE

* Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night.  Vary your route.  Stay in well-traveled, well-lighted areas.
* Have your key in your hand before you reach the door - car, work, house.
* Park in well-lighted areas.
* Lock your vehicle.
* Never pick up a hitchhiker.
* In case of car trouble, stay inside your vehicle with the doors locked.  If someone stops, crack the window only enough to tell the person to call for assistance.  Do not open your door for anyone.
* Never get into a car with someone you do not know.
* Watch those isolated spots - laundromats, library stacks, bike paths, especially at night.  Go with a friend or use your campus escort service.
 

SEXUAL ASSAULTS

When you hear the word, “rape”, you probably visualize a brutal attack by a stranger in a deserted, dark place.  There is no one around and no one to hear you scream.  Statistics show another picture.  In at least one-third of all reported sexual assaults, the victim knew their attackers.  The attackers were people the victim had reason to trust -- a date, a neighbor, a classmate, or a co-worker.

PROTECT YOURSELF

* When you first date someone you do not know well, check them out with friends.  Arrange to meet someplace where there are other people or go out with a group.
* Be assertive.  Clearly and firmly let your date know the limits and when you do not  like their behavior.  Be prepared to withstand psychological pressures and to follow up with actions, like leaving or screaming for help.
* Trust your instincts.  If you feel uneasy about the situation, stay alert and look for ways to get out.  Forget about being polite and do not worry about being embarrassed.
* Do not get drunk and/or take drugs.  Alcohol and drugs decrease your ability to take care of yourself and make sensible decisions.
* Do not leave a party, concert, dance, or ballgame with someone you have just met.
* Always be prepared to find your own way home.  Carry change for an emergency phone call to your parents or a friend, or enough cash for a taxi.
* Know yourself and your capabilities.
* Assess the circumstances - look for an escape.
* Try to read the attacker - motivation, personality, what might work to get away.
* And, remember, the choice of whether of not to physically resist can only be made by you.

AFTER THE ASSAULT

* Be a good witness - remember every detail you can.
* Do not shower, bathe, douche, or throw any clothing away.
* Call the police, a friend, or SIUE Counseling Services (650-2197) if you need additional support.
* Seek medical attention and counseling.  If you do not think you need counseling, think again.  It is better to talk out your feelings than to hold them in.
* Above all, report the attack to the police.

University Police officers are specially trained to work with victims of sexual assault.  They will assist victims whether or not they wish to press charges.  Our first priority is the safety of the victim and others on campus.  The University Police will assist the victim in obtaining medical attention, counseling, and other services that are needed.  The identity of the victim is NEVER released to the press.
 
VEHICLE SAFETY

Do not make it easy for thieves and joyriders to steal your vehicle or your valuables from inside your vehicle.

* Lock your car and pocket the key whenever you leave your vehicle unattended for a few minutes or several hours.  Make sure the windows are closed.
* Check your vehicle daily.  Although you may walk, bike, or take a bus to the main campus, it is a good habit to frequently check on your vehicle.  Should your vehicle be vandalized, stolen, or burglarized, you will be able to assist the police in determining when the crime may have occurred.
* Keep everything of value in the trunk of your car.  If you must leave articles inside, make sure they are out of sight.
* Do not leave important papers or credit cards in the glove compartment.
* Use Operation Identification to engrave your stereo or radar detector.

If your vehicle becomes disabled while on campus, you must report it to the University Police.  The telecommunicator will advise you how long your vehicle can stay in its location until it will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Obtain a Cougar Village, Woodland Hall, or Prairie Hall parking decal for your car.  Decals are available from the Vehicle Registration Office in the Rendleman Building.  This program assists police in determining which vehicles do or do not belong in the housing parking lots.  Students that live at Cougar Village Apartments, Woodland Hall, or Prairie Hall must purchase these decals for their