PURSE SNATCH:

DO NOT.....
carry a bag that makes you a target. A bag that dangles from the shoulder can easily be yanked off your shoulder by someone coming up from behind.

DO NOT.....
carry your bag in such a manner that you can't let it go if you have to.  Many women have been injured because their own bags acted as handcuffs as a purse snatcher yanked it away.

DO.....
be aware of your surroundings and carry your bag close to your body, tucked in the bend of your elbow.

DO.....
minimize the amount of money and credit cards that you carry with you on a daily basis.  Divide your money between pockets and bags.

IF.....
you are the victim of a purse snatch do not fight to hold onto your bag, especially if there is a weapon involved.

1. Avoid shortcuts that are not well traveled or well lit.
2. Know what stores are open in your neighborhood late at night.  If you suspect that you are being followed stay away from lonely blocks and head for the store you know to be open - if it's a bar, do not hesitate to go in.
3. If someone drops you off at home by auto, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside.
4. If a motorist bothers you while you are walking, turn around and walk in the opposite direction of the car. Do this as often as necessary and he should get discouraged.

1. Have your key ready before you get to the front door.
2. Make sure your entrance area is well lighted.
3. If you live in an apartment, don't be polite and hold the lobby door open for a stranger who has been waiting.
4. List only your last name and first initial in your mailbox.
5. Don't buzz someone inside unless you know them.
6. If a stranger wants to use your phone for any kind of call from business to emergency........keep him out and you make the call for them! Any problems or in doubt? Call the police!
7. If you arrive home and find your door open, DO NOT GO INSIDE.  Call the police from a pay phone or neighbors house and ask them to meet you.
8. Don't get on the elevator with a stranger if your own good judgement warns you against it - need an excuse to avoid embarrassment, say something like; "Oh I forgot my mail."

1. Report crime immediately to Police. Call 911.
2. Do not wash of douche.
3. Have a medical exam and internal gynecological exam as soon as possible accompanied by a police officer preferably.
   A. Inform doctor of exact acts committed upon you and have him note any medical evidence of them.
   B. Semen smears must be taken by the doctor.
   C. Doctor should note any bruises or injuries (bleeding, lacerations, etc.) external and internal.
   D. Have the doctor test for venereal diseases (and pregnancy later if relevant).
4. Inform the police of all details of attack, however intimate, and of anything unusual you may have noted about the attacker. Remember, what he said and how he said it may lead to his arrest.
5. Show police any external bruises or injuries however minor, resulting from the attack. Also show them to a friend or relative who might be available as a corroborative witness at the trial.
6. Give the undergarments to the police (for semen analysis).
7. Give any torn or stained clothing to the police.
8. When calm, make note of the events of the attack, unusual details, etc.