Police Offer Safety Tips In Response To Recent Rape, Purse-Snatchings

Spokane police say the violent rape of a North Spokane woman earlier this month has set off a barrage of calls from alarmed citizens asking for safety information.

“We’re seeing women right now who are paranoid; they’re scared to death,” said crime prevention specialist Sandy Richards.

The department has released a list of safety tips in response to the calls.

The rape happened when a woman walked into her back door in the 4700 block of North Cannon about 8 p.m. Jan. 10, and a man followed behind her. He knocked her to the floor before tying her hands, covering her eyes and beating and raping her.

Security lights near her home had been unscrewed sometime before the assault, police said.

Between that and a recent handful of strong-arm purse snatchings all over the city, residents should be aware of ways to keep safe, Richards said.

In all the recent purse snatchings, men are waiting at night in carports or behind homes for women to arrive home.

But police say a few simple tips can keep women - and all residents - safer in their homes.

No. 1 rule: If you’re assaulted, create a scene. Wave your arms, call attention to yourself.

“It’s a very difficult thing for women to do,” said Richards. “We want to have people think about it ahead of time, so they won’t hesitate at the time.”

Forget fumbling around to find the pepper spray; keys are the best defense. Most everyone has a pair in their hands as they walk from car to house.

Use the keys to scrape the attacker’s face or poke the eyes. Then leave, heading for a well-populated area.

“To me, running is the best thing you can do,” she said.

Other safety tips recommended by police to reduce home burglaries and assaults include:

When you leave home, have a radio or television playing loud enough to be heard at the door.

If you park away from the house, carry a flashlight and use it as you approach the house.

If parking in a garage, enter with car doors locked and check the interior of the garage before getting out of the car. Pay close attention to what is happening at the sides of the garage entry as you pull in.

Do not hide keys outside your house.

Don’t leave your house door open when carrying packages between the house and car.

Use timers to keep exterior lights on and check light bulbs periodically to make sure they are in tightly.

Trim shrubbery down to three feet. Keep trees trimmed up six feet from the ground.

If you are suspicious at any time after arriving home, trust your instincts. Don’t go in alone. Go to a neighbor’s home and call the police.