Sexual Assault Safety Tips

Sexual Assault: Safety Tips

Rape and sexual assault are not just a women' problem. Nor are they something that happens to someone else or somewhere else. Sexual assault happens everywhere, everyday and every minute to women and men of all ages.

Did You Know That?

* 1 in 4 college women have been the victims of rape or attempted rape.
* 90% of the victims know their assailants.
* 1 in 12 men admit to having fulfilled the legal definition of rape.
* 85% or more of sexual assaults involve alcohol.

Many rapes and other forms of sexual exploitation might be prevented if college women and men are educated about the problem and learn effective prevention strategies. Because rape is everyone' problem, we can only solve it through the efforts of women and men working together. Take the time now to learn the facts about rape and what you can do.
Protecting Against Sexual Assault

Follow these Tips:

* Practice good personal safety habits. Protect yourself from stranger crime and always lock your door when home or away. Don't admit anyone into your residence hall. Report any suspicious persons or activity to University Police. Call for a walking escort when you are without one, extension 2022.
* Know your sexual intentions and limits. You have a right to say "NO" to any unwanted sexual contact.
* Communicate your limits verbally. Don?t assume the other person knows your feelings or will get the message from your body language.
* Listen to your gut feelings. If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, leave the situation and go to a safe place.
* Attend social activities with friends. Agree to look out for one another and leave as a group.
* Eliminate or limit your alcohol intake. It interferes with your ability to communicate your limits and identify risky situations.
* No one deserves to be raped. Know that the effects can be overwhelming. Feelings of guilt, fear and confusion are common. There are many resources available to support you and help you explore your options.

Date Rape Drugs

Royhypnol ("Roofies"), GHB and other drugs increase the risk of sexual assault when slipped into a drink these drugs are colorless, odorless, and tasteless. The effects happen within 15 to 30 minutes and can last for hours. Effects can include dizziness, feeling intoxicated, sleepiness and amnesia like symptoms.

Take precautions to protect yourself against these drugs:

* Only drink from un-opened containers or drinks you've seen poured.
* Never leave your drink unattended.
* Avoid group drinks like punch bowls.

If you feel really tired or really drunk and don't know why, you may be feeling the effects of a drug. Tell a friend and get to a safe place

Protecting Against Accusations of Sexual Assault

* Listen carefully. If you are receiving an unclear message, ask for clarification.
* When you hear "NO" believe it and STOP.
* Assume silence means "NO" and STOP.
* Don?t assume that if someone agrees to kissing, etc. that the person is willing to have further sexual contact.
* Know that having sexual contact with someone who is mentally or physically incapable of giving consent is a crime. (This includes intoxicated persons.)

posted by Robert Heard at 9:57 AM