VIOLENCE
takes many forms. Much of it comes to us from people we know, some we love, others we hate but are powerless to leave. Sometimes
we are victims of strangers we have never met, with whom we have had no prior contact, and whose motives are unknown to us.
It happens to children, innocents who often learn from their batterers and rapists and perpetrate the same crimes, or whose
trusting nature makes them vulnerable to predators. It transpires suddenly, frequently without warning, and when we least
expect it.
VIOLENT CRIMES happen at work, at home, and on the street, often because we are in
the wrong place at the wrong time. Sometimes we are victimized because we remained blissfully unaware of obvious signs that
an event was about to occur. Your best chance for survival is to remain aware at all times, to know what is going on around
you, to speak up when you see something that just doesn't look right, and to demand that others accept equal responsibility
when it comes to security.
There is a level of personal responsibility that goes along with personal safety.
Don't think it will never happen to you.
Don't put yourself in risky situations in everyday life.
Always
familiarize yourself with safety resources and escape routes when in unfamiliar surroundings before you need them.
Keep your distance from strangers.
