According to a recent study, there are about 240 sexual assaults every day in the United States, and in most of those cases, the victim knew her assailant. Furthermore, there are about 50 women assaulted every hour in the United States, a staggering 1200 women a day. This is a sobering statistic, and one that highlights the importance of women’s safety education.
At Southern Cross Safety Academy, we believe that the EXECUTION of knowledge is power, and that by educating women about the risks they face, we can empower them to take action to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Understanding the Risks
It’s important to understand that violence against women is not limited to sexual assault. Women are also at risk of domestic violence, stalking, and harassment. In fact, the National Domestic Violence Hotline reports that one in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime.
But how do women become victims? Unfortunately, there are many factors that can increase a woman’s risk of violence, including poverty, substance abuse, and mental health issues. However, one of the most significant risk factors is a history of violence in the woman’s past. Women who have been victims of violence in the past are more likely to become victims again in the future.
Taking Action
So, what can women do to protect themselves? There are a number of steps that women can take to reduce their risk of violence, including:
- Building a support network of friends and family
- Learn how to best prepare themself daily for unwanted encounters
- Knowing how to Identify what we call Potentially Harmful Behaviors
- Learning ways to Neutralize or Navigate through unwanted energies and encounters
- Know how to use a personal safety tool like pepper spray or a firearm
- Understand how to create “reference points” that will serve you in times of emergency
- Learning how to confirm or deny if you’re being followed by someone and what to do if you are
In addition, it’s important for women to seek help if they are experiencing violence or abuse. This may mean contacting a local domestic violence shelter, reaching out to a counselor, or filing a police report. however, we at Southern Cross truly believe the greatest way to prevent violence in your life, is by getting yourself educated and trained on how to defend against it!
Conclusion
Violence against women is a serious issue, but by educating ourselves and taking action, we can reduce our risk and protect ourselves and our loved ones.
At Southern Cross Safety academy, we are committed to providing the education and resources women need to stay safe and empowered.
Do not hesitate to reach out if you would like more information, or if you would like to host a Women’s Safety Seminar where we talk about proven effective strategies that will help you create distance and time from an attacker.
You absolutely can do it!
Thank you very much.
Take Care, Stay Safe, and Always Be Kind!
Joe Malone
Southern Cross Safety Academy- CEO