There are things you can do to reduce your chances of being sexually assaulted. Follow these tips from the National Crime Prevention Council.

·    Be aware of your surroundings — who’s out there and what’s going on.

·    Walk with confidence. The more confident you look, the stronger you appear.

·    Know your limits when it comes to using alcohol.

·    Be assertive — don’t let anyone violate your space.

·    Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in your surroundings, leave.

·    Don’t prop open self-locking doors.

·    Lock your door and your windows, even if you leave for just a few minutes.

·    Watch your keys. Don’t lend them. Don’t leave them. Don’t lose them. And don’t put your name and address on the key ring.

·    Watch out for unwanted visitors. Know who’s on the other side of the door before you open it.

·    Be wary of isolated spots, like underground garages, offices after business hours, and apartment laundry rooms.

·    Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Vary your route. Stay in well-traveled, well-lit areas.

·    Have your key ready to use before you reach the door — home, car, or work.

·    Park in well-lit areas and lock the car, even if you’ll only be gone a few minutes.

·    Drive on well-traveled streets, with doors and windows locked.

·    Never hitchhike or pick up a hitchhiker.

·    Keep your car in good shape with plenty of gas in the tank.

·    In case of car trouble, call for help on your cellular phone. If you don’t have a phone, put the hood up, lock the doors, and put a banner in the rear mirror that says, “Help. Call police.”