Scary Stats

The following post contains some disturbing facts, so if you don't wish to read them, please don't.

In our discussion on sexual health, we learned some eye opening and disturbing statistics regarding rape, violence, etc... Here are some:

• 1 in 8 women are raped in their lifetime (most of whom know their attacker)
• 1 in 3 women are sexually assaulted at some time in their life
• The % of rape in Utah overall is higher than the national average (Utah county is lower than the national average, but Salt Lake County is higher)
• College age women are 4 times more likely to be raped
• Alcohol or drugs are used in 72% of rape cases
• The average rapist rapes 7 or 8 women before being charged
• 70% of violent injuries are head, neck, and upper body strangulations

Some of these surprised me, like the one about Salt Lake County being higher than the national average and most rapists not getting caught until their 7th or 8th victim. The thing to remember about rape is that it is not about sex, it is about violence and power. It's very important to be smart and take some precautions. Here are some common ones:

• Don't walk alone at night
• Lock your door both when asleep and when leaving your place of residence
• If you go running or walking at the same time through parks or other slightly shady areas, change up your route and time of day to prevent stalkers.
• Stay away from narrow alleys or dark streets
• Never take a shortcut through a rough neighborhood or deserted paths and always stay on the main streets
• Do not get into an elevator alone with someone you do not know (stay within reach of the control panel if you can't avoid it)
• A large number of women are attacked while getting in their cars, so have your key ready to put into the door right as you get to your car so you do not waste time fumbling for your keys
• The main entrance to your home should be properly lit so no one can hide in dark shadows
• Make sure your door has a peep hole and never open for a stranger unless you are completely satisfied with their answer.
• Do not accept a drink from someone you do not know, (even if you know them, it's best to get your own) if you leave you drink unattended at a party, do not drink out of it again (date rape drugs can be mixed in your drink in the blink of an eye making you a target for date rape)
• Carry mace, a small knife, or even a taser gun in your purse at all times
• If you ever have to fight an attacker, commit yourself 100%. Try a loud, verbal assault first, then go for the hair, eyes, throat, and groin

In general, just be aware of what is going on around you and be alert. Some people don't like to hear all the tips, and call it paranoia, but unfortunately in the world we live in, it's important to be aware of them.