On average, a woman is raped every four minutes in South Africa and one in four South African men have admitted to raping a woman (Medical Research Council).

Reduce your chances of being raped

    • Trust your gut instincts
    • Avoid deserted areas
    • Keep your cell phone charged and with you
    • Learn how to use “SING” (Solar Plexus-Instep-Nose-Groin): the four attack points to focus on if grabbed from behind
    • Carry defensive items only if you know how to use them. Any “weapon” that could hurt a potential attacker can be used against you. Umbrellas or handbags are useful weapons and have less chance of being turned against you
    • If attacked, fight like a psychotic cat, scream, shout and draw attention to yourself. Shout “police!”, “call 0111 now!”, “gun!”, “help!” or point to a bystander and shout something like “you sir, in the red shirt, I need your help now! This man is attacking me”
    • Joining an organisation such as Crisis on Call is helpful in an emergency such as if your car breaks down (www.crisisoncall.co.za). Stay in your car and refuse a lift if offered
    • Keep car doors locked while driving, check the back of your car for intruders before getting in and park in open, well-lit areas
    • Attempted rapists often target parking lots and parking garages. If someone follows you, make a noise – talk loudly to an imaginary person or pretend to talk on your cell phone
    • On public transportation, sit near the driver if possible. Avoid sitting near groups of young men
    • Walk or jog only during the day with at least one friend. Avoid secluded or isolated areas
    • Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t cover both of your ears with headphones
    • Avoid becoming isolated with people you don’t know or trust
    • Appear strong, confident, aware and secure
    • Keep doors and windows locked at all times
    • Never go somewhere alone or leave a party with someone you don’t know
    • Never include personal information on the internet. If you wish to meet someone, take an older friend with you and meet the person in a public place
    • If someone is giving you unwanted attention, tell him to back off clearly and firmly. You’re under no obligation to do something with which you’re uncomfortable, no matter how much money he spends on you
    • If in a compromising situation through no fault of your own, remain aware of your surroundings and plan an escape
    • Have a special code word with a friend or family member to use when you call them if being pressured into unwanted sex
    • If needed, make up a reason why you need to leave
    • Be careful at parties and bars. Avoid drinking too much and always get your own drinks. Keep your hand over the top of your drink because it’s easy for someone to drop something into it. Loud music can drown cries for help. Tell your friends where you’re going. Women have been attacked in deserted ladies’ rooms.

 

Sources
www.nlm.nih.gov.
www.nononsenseselfdefense.com
www.rainn.org (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
www.wikihow.com