KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- With two rapes in the past two weeks in Waldo, those at a seminar given by a safety expert were all ears Tuesday night.

Tracy Hawkins told people at the Plaza branch of the Kansas City public library that a lot of protection measures cost nothing, like following through on a thought process when crimes like the Waldo rapes make people think “what if?”

Shortly before 5 a.m. Sunday, a woman near 78th terrace and Grand Avenue awoke to a man in her bedroom, with a gun, who then robbed, beat and raped her, according to police.

It was the second rape in less than two weeks, the other at 75th Street and Summit Avenue, involving similarities that lead police to believe they are connected.

Hawkins, who owns Safety and Security Source, said that thinking about plans and tools ahead of time can be key in prevention.

"Think about your escape option," Hawkins said. "Will you go out a window or a door? If it’s a deadbolt, is there a key? Can you get out if you need to get out?"

Hawkins also brought up some simple tips and tools for keeping people safe.

She said instead of thinking to dial 911 right away on a phone, have a car remote by the bed to press the panic button. Hawkins said the commotion of the car alarm can scare many away.

Besides ideas, Hawkins also came with products, like magnetic alarms that can be attached to doors and windows. When the two parts of the alarms separate, the alarm sounds.

In the end Hawkins said it’s about being prepared, not being so paranoid that you’re paralyzed.

"You can’t be surprised," Hawkins said. "There’s no such thing as a good or bad neighborhood. Some are better than others. But I tell people don’t let your guard down because of the neighborhood you’re in. Criminals have cars."