Victims are never responsible for the assaults perpetrated against them, but some common sense precautions may help make you less vulnerable.
- Communicate your limits firmly and directly.
- Act in a way that shows you value yourself.
- Be aware of what is happening around you.
- Don't become drunk or drugged.
- Don't accept drinks from people you don't know or don't trust.
- Don't leave your drink unattended.
- Use a buddy system to watch out for each other.
- Intervene if someone is at risk.
- Condemn the behavior of someone who takes advantage of a sexual partner - don't condone it.
- Don't excuse what people do when they are drunk or high. If it's wrong when they are sober, it's wrong when they are drunk.
- Trust your instincts and get out of a situation that feels wrong.
- Avoid putting music headphones in both ears when you need to be able to hear what is going on around you.
- Walk confidently on the side of the street facing traffic - don't appear vulnerable.
- Lock your doors and windows - at home and in your vehicle.
- Keep your cell phone with you and charged.
- Know where you are - in the event you need to call for help.
- If you are going out, let a friend or family member know where you're going, who you will be with, and when you will return.
- Make a scene if you feel threatened - don't worry about hurting someone's feelings.
Statistics
- Someone in the US is sexually assaulted every 2 minutes.
- 9 out of 10 victims are female
- 44 % of victims are under 18
- 57% of sex assaults happen on dates
- 75% of the men and 55% of the women involved in acquaintance sexual assaults were drinking or taking drugs just before the attack.
Sexual assault is one of the most under reported crimes - 60% of sexual assaults are not reported to law enforcement, which means the assailants face no consequences