Crime too close to home

One of my worst nightmares has been splashed across the front page of the SMU newspaper, "The Daily Campus"..and it's hitting far too close to home.

An SMU student was kidnapped and raped at gunpoint only a few short blocks from campus, and then left, naked, roaming the streets until a passerby helped her. (Read more)

My thoughts and prayers go out to the woman, and her friends who witnessed the kidnapping. However, it makes me wonder. How safe are we?
My mother has always told me to stay in groups. This girl was in a group of three.
She also has advised to keep close to campus, and know where the nearest help can be. They all did.
It's a scary thought that no matter the precautions one takes, the pure strength of a girl like me vs a middle aged man could decide my fate. And the idea that anyone would want to hurt an innocent girl like the 20 year old that was attacked is frightening in itself.

So, please. Take care of yourselves, watch your back ladies. And boys, please watch out for the girls in your life.

Tips to stay safe:
-Stay in groups
-Walk in lighted areas
-Have your cell phone with you
-Always inform someone of where you are, where you're going
-Buy pepper spray

Above all- stay aware of your surroundings.