Monday, December 04, 2006

Precautions help women stay safe while celebrating season

While the holidays are filled with parties and good cheer, they also provide sexual predators with an opportunity to catch women off-guard.

“Women heading out to celebrate the season can find themselves at an increased risk for becoming the victim of sexual assault,” said Claudia Zaborsky, Fort Belvoir sexual assault prevention coordinator and victim advocate.

Zaborsky added that there are numerous ways to remain safe while you are out. 

“Think of the little things that you can do,” said Zaborsky, who suggested that women out for a night on the town should carry their cell phones and enough money for a cab.

“Don’t accept drinks from strangers,” she continued. Zaborsky also advised women not to leave their drinks unattended, as they could be tampered with.

Whenever possible, women should take a friend along when shopping or heading out for a night on the town, Zaborsky advised.

Women should also tell a family member or friend where they are going and when they will return. And if a situation doesn’t quite feel right, never be afraid to leave, she said.

“Go with your instincts,” Zaborsky stressed.

For more information on how to prevent sexual assault, visit the Web site at http://www.sapr.mil or http://www.rainn.org. Zaborsky can be reached by calling (703) 805-2631.