Don't leave them outside or in hiding places. Don't lend them to anyone else. Replace locks immediately if you lose your keys. Keep doors and windows locked at all times, even when you are home. Use good deadbolt locks.
Many rapes occur in the home.
Know your neighbors and know which ones you can trust in an emergency. Know who is at the door before opening it. Demand identification from anyone you don't know, especially sales and repair persons. If a stranger asks to use your telephone to call for help, offer to place the call yourself rather than inviting him or her into your house or apartment. Women living alone or with other women should use an unlisted phone number or list no address with their name.