Sexual Assault Prevention

At least one third of all reported sexual assault victims know their attacker. He or she is a friend, spouse, classmate, casual acquaintance, etc.. Sexual Assault is a felony crime whether it is committed by a complete stranger or your best friend. Nothing you do, say, or wear gives anyone the right to assault you - sexually or otherwise.

1. Check out your date with friends- If your friends don't like your date or if a poor reputation precedes him or her, chances are that a secluded encounter may end badly. Insist on meeting at a crowded spot or with a group of friends.
2. Be prepared to find your own transportation home- Make sure your cell phone is fully charged before going out. Check your cell phone periodically for a signal. Make sure you take enough money for a taxi. Or take your own vehicle and meet your date at the planned location.
3. Clearly state your limits beforehand- Let your date know your limits and intentions early. Open discussions by both parties can often times reduce the stress of a first date and make it more relaxed and fun.
4. Know your limit- Alcohol and/or drugs decrease your inhibitions and may make you vulnerable to be taken advantage by someone.  
5. Trust your instincts- If you think something is wrong or you feel uneasy - end the date. You can always explore the reasons for the feeling later in a safe place. Don't assume that you are wrong because there is no obvious evidence.
6. Fight or Flight? The decision to fight your attacker is strictly a personal one. A lot of people have been successful in fighting off an armed and dangerous attackers, but there are times when these confrontations end tragically. If you do decide to fight you must commit and your primary goal is escape from the attacker. The key is survival.
7. Call the police - Many sexual assaults go unreported. Survivors often feel that their peers will blame them, not believe them, or their social status will be affected. Others do not want their attacker (former friend) to get in trouble or they do not want their parents knowing about it.  All of the reasons for not reporting have merit and validity, but all Survivors must also be aware that a criminal who gets away with a crime once will very likely repeat the same crime. A stand must be taken by someone in order for this sexual predator to be stopped.