BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force has issued several personal safety tips which it advises could be employed if one is to reduce their risk of getting raped.
The tips were issued after the Force had received reports of two incidents of rape which transpired on Thursday last (Oct. 13); one of which occurred “in the western part of the island, and the other in the Basseterre area”.
The tips were listed in two sets; one for use while in public and the other for use while at home.
The Police advice that while walking alone in the streets, individuals must do so in illuminated areas, trying their best to avoid dark allies and shortcuts.
“If you feel you’re being followed, stay in a lit area and call for an escort. Never accept a lift from a stranger or someone you don’t even know, even if you are running late, wet from rain or tired. Avoid passing stationary cars with their engines running and people sitting in them.
“Keep your mind on your surroundings - if you’re chatting on your mobile phone or listening to your iPod you won’t hear trouble approaching. Remind school-aged children to walk in groups and never accept lift(s) from strangers, even when raining.”
Rape and other sexual assaults often take place in the victim’s residence and in many instances, the perpetrator take advantage of vulnerable areas in dwelling place which allowed them access to the home.
The Police have forwarded a few tips which individuals and families can use to better secure their homes and protect themselves from predators.
“Ensure the locking devices on all windows and all locks on doors are fully operational. Replace if needed, the safety of your family is worth the investment. The use of an outside porch or motion detecting lights have been proven to be a good deterrent against criminals. Remove ladders, building blocks, tools, or any other item that can be used to give a burglar 'height' in their effort to break into your home or that can be used to gain entry from around the yard.”
The authorities further advise against leaving spare keys outside of the home. It is known that some individuals do this as a means of allowing family members into their homes, but it ill-intentioned individuals can find these and gain access.
“Verify that all windows, doors and gates are locked prior to leaving your home for work, taking a nap or/and before retiring for the evening. Be alert of strangers, or persons in the neighbourhood observing you or your neighbour's house.”
Above all, “We urge residents to be alert, look out for each other in our communities and to report any suspicious activity or criminal activity they may be aware of. By working together in fighting crime we can make a difference…
“To report any suspicious or criminal activity, citizens and residents are urged to call any Police Station, or Crime Stoppers, the anonymous hotline at 1-800-8477 (TIPS)."
