LIFESTYLE
Posted Dec. 5, 2006 | Print This Page | Font Size: Smaller Larger
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How to protect yourself from domestic violence
Idaho in general has one of the lowest rates of domestic violence in the country. On average in Idaho, for every 100,000 people there are 330 cases of domestic violence versus the nation’s average of over 550 cases, according to the Rexburg Police Department. In Madison County in 2003, there were two cases of rape and eight cases of forcible fondling. These numbers are also lower than national averages, according to the Rexburg Police Department.

Despite Idaho’s low rate of domestic violence, it still does exist. According to the Utah Domestic Violence Council, here are some tips on how to protect yourself against domestic violence:

  • If being stalked, tell the stalker “no” only once and then never give them a reaction again. If you respond, you teach them that their actions will elicit a response.
  • Take a self-defense class. It will teach you to become aware of your surroundings and avoid confrontations.
  • Get a cell phone and keep it with you at all times.
  • If you think you are being followed while in your car, make four left- or right-hand turns. If the car continues to follow you, drive to the police station, never home or to a friend’s house.
  • Never be afraid to sound your car horn to attract attention.

Students who witness or experience rape should contact the Rexburg police or campus police at 496-3000 immediately. Students who have experienced domestic violence and want counseling can call 529-4352.

For more information and tips on how to stay safe, join Campus Watch, a BYU-Idaho sponsored program designed to distribute crime alerts and increase student awareness with regards to crime. Contact Billy Plank at 496-3000.