Did you know, one of every four college women polled in a study by the Department of Justice was sexually assaulted during four years at college? Personal safety means preventive adult and child safety, as well as self-protection when attacked. Personal safety and security means not putting yourself into a bad situation to begin with, or taking measures to protect yourself should something bad happen to you.

Personal safety and security are important whether you live in the city, suburbs or a rural area, crime is happening all the time in every community.

Discovering how to keep yourself safe and secure can help you stop feeling vulnerable. Personal defense sprays and stun guns should only be purchased by those 18 years of age or older.

If what you really need or want is self-defense or personal safety, or your needs are ill-defined, martial arts schools may help you define what you may want. Mini courses in self-defense are also available.

It is however, important to realize that no matter what your decision about using physical self-defense to protect yourself, that you have come to a crossroads. Unless you are willing to commit extreme physical violence in self-defense do not allow this situation to develop.

Before you vocalize: Know how far you are willing to go, Physical self-defense is the last ditch effort.

Physical self-defense is not about fighting, it is about not being hurt by violence.

Police Officers, Campus Safety and Security Consultants recommend the use of personal safety alarms. These can be used when jogging, grocery or just going out to the car to get something. Speaking of vehicles, Close all the windows and sun roof, lock doors and remove your key from the ignition when leaving it parked on campus.

Being alert to what's going on around us creates a culture that promotes and enhances security and safety on a campus and in our neighborhoods.

Are you beginning to see how important it is to pay attention to all your surroundings? Also, If you arrive home, even if it is your dorm room and see that any window or door is open, go to a neighbor's house and call the police.

What can we do for prevention and to increase our knowledge? Is there a Neighborhood Watch Program where you live?

Contact your local Police Department to find out. Or, if you live on a campus, discuss this with your Campus security. If there isn't one, take the lead and start one of your own.

It could help keep you, your friends, your dorm or home safer, and also help your neighborhood be a safer place to live. Become a know-it-all, read our articles or blog on related subjects and become the personal safety guru on your block. Because Personal safety and protection is an important issue, It is our hopes that these tips will help guide you in keeping yourself, your house or home, your family and friends safer from crime.