Many experts say females are usually the target of predators because of their body language, lack of awareness, and tendency to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

“I am always aware of my surroundings, so someone can’t sneak up on me,” said sophomore Rebecca Moyer.

There are many ways to be safe.

If a female follows the same routine day after day, a stalker could memorize the schedule awaiting her arrival.

A few ways to be protected from a predator is by knowing self-defense by taking classes, locking car doors, being in a group of people, and staying in a well-lit area.

“When I am out late at night, I stay with at least two or three friends,” senior Gina Consumano said. “I feel safer that way.”

In the unfortunate event of actually being attacked, there are some useful tactics in escaping a criminal’s tight grip.

If a person is attacked, screaming and drawing attention to the attack are ways to deter the attack.

“If someone attacked me I would scream and fight back to protect myself,” said freshman Brianna Davis.

A good physical defense to use against an attacker is poking him/her in the eye(s), or kicking them in the knees.

If either of these self-defense tactics are used, be sure to execute them correctly the first time because it will only anger the attacker. But once he/she is injured, it opens a window of opportunity to escape.