Sexual Assault Risk Reduction

There is no guarantee that one can protect themselves from being sexually assaulted once confronted by someone who intends to cause physical harm. Most often, the victim has to make split second decisions, usually without time to contemplate something they read about on a website weeks, months or even years before. There is no way to predict a perpetrator’s intentions.

However, you may reflect on these risk reduction tips and incorporate them into your personal safety plan in advance of situations commonly encountered. 

1. Be alert at all times and trust your immediate instincts. Show confidence and purpose. Fear and intimidation are two weapons perpetrators rely upon the most. Awareness of your surroundings at all times will help you defeat these weapons. 

2. Be acutely aware of your surroundings and don't let alcohol affect your otherwise good judgment. 

3. Try to avoid isolated areas. It is more difficult to get help if no one is around.

4. Walk with purpose. Even if you don’t know where you are going, act like you do.

5. Trust your instincts. If a situation or location feels unsafe or uncomfortable, it probably isn’t the best place to be.

6. Try not to load yourself down with packages or bags as this can make you appear more vulnerable.

7. Make sure your cell phone is with you and charged and that you have cab money. 

8. Avoid putting music headphones in both ears so that you can be more aware of your surroundings, especially if you are walking alone.

By not resisting an attack, you are in NO WAY consenting. You are doing what is necessary to survive.

If you have been sexually assaulted:

1. Find a safe location away from the perpetrator. Ask a trusted friend to be with you for moral support.

2. Know that what happened was not your fault!

3. Preserve all evidence of the attack.

   Do not bathe, urinate, wash your hands, brush your teeth, eat, or smoke. Although this may be uncomfortable, it is vital to the preservation of any potential evidence. If you are still in the location at which the crime occurred, do not clean or straighten up or remove anything. Write down all the details you can recall about the attack and the perpetrator.

4. If you choose to report, contact law enforcement immediately (local authorities can be reached by calling 911). If you want more information, contact the Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-262-9800

5. Seek medical care as soon as possible. Even if you do not have any visible physical injuries, you may be at risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted infection (women may also be at risk for pregnancy). 

   To find a local hospital or healthcare facility that is equipped to collect forensic evidence, contact the Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-262-9800. The hotline will connect you to your local crisis center, which can provide information on the nearest medical facility, and can send a Sexual Assault Specialist to accompany you through the medical evidence collection process. Having a Sexual Assault Specialist present is your choice and only you can make that choice. Ask the health care professional to conduct a Sexual Assault Medical Exam If you suspect you have been drugged, request that a urine sample be collected to preserve evidence. If you choose NOT to have a Sexual Assault Medical Exam, schedule an appointment with your primary healthcare provider to assess for any injury, screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and/or pregnancy. Immediate medical attention is vital!

6. Recognize that healing from an attack takes time. Give yourself the time you need and know that it is never too late to get help. ContactLifeline, Inc. can provide professional counseling as well as 24hr support services free of charge. For free, confidential 24/7 assistance, contact the Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-262-9800.
   
   Retrieved on March 7, 2012 from http://rainn.org/get-information/sexual-assault-prevention
   

Rape is not a
Sexual Act.

It is an act of
Violence.