Protect Yourself From Rape

Rape is rampant in South Africa and it’s up to every woman to learn how to keep herself safe. Awareness is the most important form of self-defence – develop the mindset of a bodyguard.

Defence Tactics
Try to avoid being alone with a man who you do not know particularly well, especially if he is drunk.
Women who seem vulnerable are at risk, so avoid having too much alcohol when you are around men, and show a little attitude.

Most rapists are unarmed and on their own at the time of the attack, if this is the case, your best response is to retaliate as viciously as possible.

It is highly beneficial to use some form of object as a weapon, e.g. pen, teaspoon, toothbrush, jabbed at the eyes or deodorant, insecticides, etc sprayed at the eyes, can give you a temporary escape.

If you do not have a weapon the best targets to attack are the eyes and the groin. Jab your fingers in the eyes, kick, punch or even better grab the testicles.

Make as much noise as possible as this may attract attention, it also increases your aggression and adrenalin rush and often scares off the attacker.

It is highly advisable to invest in a pepper spray or similar self-defence gadget.

Many woman using these tactics have successfully defended themselves against often three or four attackers. If the attacker has a weapon, do not immediately retaliate, get him to calm down, make him believe you will go along with what he says and retaliate at the safest possible time. If the risk to your life is too great you may have to submit, as your life is worth more than allowing him to end it.

Do A Class
Attending some form of self defence training should be a must for all women in South Africa. Most rapists know that 95% of women submit because of fear, and this is why they keep raping.

Message To The Parents
To reduce rape it is essential to teach the young boys in your family to respect women. When she says NO, it is the most sacred of all rules to stick to.

Personal Tips:

• When your intuition warns you, react immediately.
• Avoid quiet and lonely areas.
• Try changing your daily routine.
• Keep a calm head when attacked.
• Portraying an image of confidence will assist in preventing an attack.
• Hit and run, do not wait around to finish him off.
• Give an armed attacker any material possessions he wants.
• Make sure a friend or family member always knows where you are.