Stalking: Know it. Name it. Stop it.

Each year, 3.4 million Americans over the age of 18 are stalked.  3 out of 4 stalking victims are stalked by someone they know.  30% of victims are stalked by a current or former intimate partner.  10% are stalked by a stranger.  1 out of 4 victims report being stalked through the use of some form of technology, like email, instant messages, and text messages.

Persons 18-24 years experience the highest rate of stalking. 

18-24 years old?   That's us college students.

January is National Stalking Awareness Month.  So to promote the safety of lovely undergrads, here are some tips if you may be being stalked.

1. Always have a phone nearby, with 911 and helpful family/friends on speed dial.
2. Treat all threats, direct and indirect, as legitimate. Inform law enforcement immediately!
3. Vary your routine. Change routes to work, school, the grocery store, etc. 
4. Limit the time you spend alone. Try not to travel alone.
5. Identify escape routes out of your house, dorm, or apartment.
6. Inform your neighbors, landlords, on-site managers, and hall directors about the situation. Provide a photo and description of the stalker. Ask neighbors to call the police if they see the stalker at your place.
7. Give a picture of the stalker to security and friends at work and school.  Inform your supervisors and coworkers. Tell your professors, friends, and classmates.
8. Ask a security guard to walk you to your car or the bus.
9. Do not interact with the stalker. Doing so may reinforce their behavior.
10. If the stalker contacts you, save any voicemails, text messages, and emails. Also keep letters and gifts the stalker may send. These can all be used as evidence!
11. Keep a log of everything that occurs regarding the stalking.
12. Make sure your school, workplace, friends, and family know not to give your address or phone number out to anyone!

Stalking is a serious, dangerous crime. Know it. Name it. Stop it.

Check out StalkingAwarenessMonth.org for more information and spread the word!

(Stats and tips in this post from StalkingAwarenessMonth.org.)

Stay safe, lovely undergrads!