Stalking is a pattern of conduct consisting of repeated harassment, following or threats. Stalkers come from all income levels and backgrounds. Most stalking victims are former lovers, former spouses, and spouses. 87% of stalkers are men.

Safeguards for Stalking Victims

• Notify the police.
• Reinforce your home locks with deadbolts.
• Keep your outside lights on after dark.
• File an Order of Protection.
• Document the specific dates, times and locations of stalking incidents.
• Record telephone calls.
• Block your telephone number from caller ID.
• Screen calls by using caller ID.
• Videotape stalking behavior.
• Describe your stalker to coworkers.
• Obtain an unlisted telephone number.
• Vary your routines, taking different routes each time you travel to work, or to visit family and friends.
• Ask neighbors to notify the police if they see someone trespass on your property.
• Ask coworkers to screen your telephone calls during work hours.
• Don't travel alone, if possible.
• Get an escort to your vehicle when leaving work or shopping.
• Don't give personal information to people you don't know, and check all references.
• Don't reveal that you live alone, are home alone, or are ill.

Assessing the true danger from stalkers is difficult. Some may only be obsessed with following victims; others may intend physical harm. Taking a stalker's actions seriously and reporting all incidents to the police may save your life!

If you are in danger, call 911.

If you are in need of emergency shelter in Blount County, Tennessee, call the Haven House hotline at 865-982-1087, 24/7.