Situational awareness key to preventing assault Published April 15, 2009 By Lynn Emond 22nd ARW Sexual Assault Response Coordinator MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- In recognition of April's observance as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Team McConnell is reminded that "My Strength is For Defending." All team members have the responsibility to ask, act, and intervene against the crime of sexual assault. As bystanders, we all hold the ability to create an environment free from sexual violence. Awareness and assertiveness are your best defenses against becoming a victim of sexual assault. Most importantly, trust your instincts. If a person, place or situation makes you uneasy, leave or change it immediately. Avoid walking or running alone during the evening hours. Do not take drinks or cigarettes from people you do not know and trust. Real anger instead of fear may not be expected by a would-be attacker and may throw them off-guard. "No means no." If you do not want to be intimate, clearly state your feelings. Be assertive and direct. Lock your vehicle and put up your windows even while you are driving. If someone attempts to flag you down, call law enforcement but do not open your door. When returning to your vehicle, carry your keys in your hand and be ready to unlock the door and enter as quickly as possible. As you approach your vehicle, scan the area, glance underneath the vehicle, and take a quick look inside before entering. Once inside the vehicle, lock the doors immediately. While out and about, present an alert appearance. Be aware of your surroundings; scan the area from time to time. Avoid becoming so distracted by shopping that you fail to keep track of your surroundings, others near you, or your personal property. When parking your car, roll up the windows, lock the vehicle and take the keys. During hours of darkness, park and walk in lighted areas to the extent possible. Develop the habit of thinking ahead. Use your mirrors frequently to check behind and to your sides. Look ahead, as far down the road as possible, to anticipate slow-downs, stops, emergencies or other events which will affect traffic flow. If involved in a car accident in an unfamiliar or potentially unsafe location, do not open or exit your vehicle. If you have a cell phone, call law enforcement. If not, acknowledge the accident by hand signal, and motion the other driver to follow you to a safe, well-lit, populated location to exchange information. If you are involved in a collision which seems suspicious, remain in your vehicle. Do not get out to inspect for damage or to exchange information. Keep your car in good working order and make sure to always have gas. Avoid traveling alone and keep a cell phone nearby to dial for help in case of emergency. We encourage you to learn more about the issue of sexual assault and what you can do to prevent it by participating in local SAAM activities. For more information, contact the Team McConnell Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office at 759-1872 or 759-3048.