How do I protect myself?

• Most sexual assaults are committed by someone known by the victim or an acquaintance.

• Pay attention to what is going on around you

• Come up with a plan beforehand

• Talk to your friends about how they would want you to intervene if they were in an uncomfortable situation

• Choose an intervention strategy that is best for the situation

• If a place or situation doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trust your instincts. Leave.

• Do not immediately trust a person you just met at a party.

• Stay in a group as much as possible. Four or more is best.

• Do not accept alcoholic or soft drinks from persons you do not know.

• Do not accept rides from persons you do not know very well.

• Travel on major sidewalks along major streets and avoid shortcuts.

• If someone makes an unwanted sexual advance, immediately say “no.”

• If you feel unsafe seek safety in a well-populated area and call the police immediately.

• Always carry your cell phone. Even if it is out of minutes you can still dial 911 from the phone.