I think everyone, male and female, should read The Gift of Fear. My girlfriend read it recently and has found herself in a few situations when she's used what she's learned.
The basic premise is that you should listen to your instincts, they're usually right. And if they're wrong, what's the trade-off? Offending someone by moving away from them or asking someone else for help is the worst that can happen if you're wrong. If you're right...well we know what the worst that could happen is.
Please do not read this as blaming Jill for not listening to her instincts. It might have been too late even if she did.
My anger has eased since my earlier anger laden post directed at the man who has been arrested (I refuse to use his name). If you have the means, support the Victorian Police - today is Blue Ribbon Day.
http://www.remember.org.au/