Date Rape

Date rape is a serious crime. There are steps a woman can take to reduce the chances of it happening to her.

When going on a date- whether it’s a formal “date” or just a get together with just the two of you- always let someone else know your plans. Inform them where you are going, who you are going to be with and when you plan on returning. This can be a friend, roommate or family member, and then let them know when you return, or where you are when you retire for the night.

I understand that no one likes to have to “report in” as if you were a kid again, but it’s nice to have a buddy who cares and will investigate if you don’t report. There are a lot of single people who go missing, but aren’t missed for a few days, by then it’s too late!

Early in a relationship, take your own transportation, carry enough cash for a cab ride home. If he’s driving, not only are you at his mercy as to where you’re going, but a parked car can be a secluded place for a date rape. Meet in a public place. Do not leave your drink unattended- more on that lower on this page. So “powder your nose” before you get there.

Set limits early in a relationship. It may seem embarrassing, but it could help you both to know what the expectations are right away. You may realize at this point that this relationship will not be a “keeper”. Be clear and direct. If things are moving to fast simple say “No”. Don’t say it laughingly, you will not be taken seriously. Don’t indicate that you are not sure. Be assertive! Click here to read more this and trusting your "gut instinct". Remember it’s better to be thought of as rude than to be assaulted.

Have a plan to end the date quickly, just in case. A cell phone will be helpful for this. Pretend to get a call or make a call. Let your date know that something urgent has come up. Have a friend come to where you are, accidentally bumping into you- act surprised.

Date Rape Drugs

Here’s another wonder of modern medicine, drugs that can be dissolved in a drink without color, smell or taste. They render the victim disorientated, confused or even unconscious so that she is unable to put up any resistance to sex. They cause amnesia to the event, leave the body quickly and are virtually undetectable.

Three of the date rape drugs used are: GHB (Gamma Hydroxybutyrate, Fantasy, Liquid Ecstasy), Rohypnol (Flunittrazepam, Roofie) and Ketamine(Ketamine Hydrochloride). These drugs come in various forms; liquid, white powder or easy to dissolve pills. The effects will be felt about 20 minutes after drinking. These drugs can conceivably cause respiratory arrest and even death!

Several hours later when the victim regains consciousness she will not remember the event. Within 72 hours there will be no traces of the drug in her body.

It’s a sad state when we have to worry about these things. Just because you don’t think it will happen to you doesn’t mean it won’t- just the opposite. If you don’t watch for it, you’re an easier target. How many times have we heard past victims say they never thought it would happen to them?

Click here to return to Personal Safety from Date Rape.

Click here to return to the home page.