Sexual Assault
Gaining more awareness and taking preventive measures will help you become less vulnerable towards sexual assault. Follow these guidelines to prevent sexual assault:
- Statistically, most assaults occur with the overuse of alcohol. Drink responsibly and be aware of your environment and the people in it.
- Recognize that most sexual assaults are committed by the victim's acquaintances.
- State your expectations clearly and express firmly that they should be honored.
- Trust your instincts about possible danger. If someone or something makes you uneasy, you should get out of the situation.
- Never hesitate to ask for help to ensure your own well-being.
- Be committed to the safety of others. Make the effort to help friends and acquaintances get home safely.
- Know the person you are dating. Meet new people in public places or on group dates.
- Be aware of anyone that displays jealousy, anger, possessiveness, and aggression. Also be aware of anyone who ignores your wishes, crosses your personal boundaries, tries to guilt you, and/or becomes hostile when you say “no”.
- Never open your door to strangers or let strangers inside your room, apartment, or house.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Familiarize yourself with alternative routes. Walk in groups when possible.
- If you are in immediate danger, yell “fire,” not “help” or “rape.” This will help draw a crowd and surprise the offender.