JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
Sexual assault and sexual harassment can happen at any time. Being proactive and knowing basic personal safety techniques can prevent anyone from becoming a victim.
Bernadette Hardy, chief of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program, encourages Service members assigned to Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, to take personal safety and the safety of others serious by following these tips:
1. While out in the community- be aware of strangers who are overly friendly and those attempting to force consumption of food or drink, and be cautious of dark places and travel in a group when possible.
2. Make personal safety a priority- take a personal defense class, walk with confidence, lock doors and windows in the place of residence and vehicles.
3. Be an active bystander- prepare to take action and do not allow disrespectful behavior such as inappropriate touching or jokes, which a perpetrator can classify as "having fun."
4. Gain sexual assault knowledge- JBLE and SAPR host events which allow Service members the opportunity to learn more about sexual assault and harassment.
Along with learning useful knowledge during SAPR events, attendees are given the opportunity to support victims of sexual assault.
The SAPR events that are available during Sexual Assault Awareness Month are:
Walk a mile in her shoes, April 9 at 11 a.m.
5K Awareness Run April 15 at 7 a.m.
Standing Together Against Rape Road Rally, April 29 at 8:30 a.m.
For more information contact the Langley Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program at 764-3359 or the Fort Eustis Sexual Harassment Assault Response and Prevention office at 268-8967.