Risk Reduction and Seeking Help

 Avoid Dangerous Situations ◦ Plan ahead  Always let someone know where you are, where you are going, and when you expect to return.  Arrange to have someone available to help you in case of an emergency.  Taking a cell phone to a party is a good idea. ◦ Be aware of your surroundings  Avoid isolated areas.

 Social Situations ◦ When you go to a party, go with a group of friends. Check in with each other during and after the party. ◦ Use the “buddy system.” Don’t be afraid to let a friend know if someone is making you feel uncomfortable. ◦ Be a good friend to your “buddy” at a party. Keep an eye on him or her.

 If someone is pressuring you: ◦ Stay true to your code of conduct. ◦ Lie. If you are worried about hurting someone’s feelings, it is better to make up a lie and leave than to stay in an uncomfortable situation. ◦ Think of an escape route. Look for exits, doors, windows. Are there people around who can help you? ◦ Take action. Speak out. Shout “NO” or “FIRE!” (It brings people running.) ◦ Kick, scream, or bite if you have to.

 Trust your own instincts!

 What to do if you have been sexually assaulted. ◦ Get away from the assailant – find a safe place. ◦ Dial 911. ◦ Call a friend or family member you can trust.  Hot lines for help:  National Assault Hotline at HOPE (4673). This is a service of the RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network).  NCCASA.net is a website that lists the rape crisis centers for each county (North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault).

 Reporting the assault ◦ It is the choice of the victim whether or not to report sexual assault. ◦ Why is it a good idea to report sexual assault?  Immediate medical attention may be needed including testing for STDs and prevention of pregnancy.  Sexual assault is a serious issue. There are trained professionals who can help the victim deal with many of the feelings he/she has not only immediately after the assault, but for a period after the assault.  The assailant may repeat this crime if not made to pay a consequence.

 Reporting the assault: ◦ To the police, everything is evidence. ◦ DO NOT:  Shower or bathe  Throw away any clothes that were worn at the time of the time of the assault  Brush or comb hair  Use the restroom  Brush teeth or gargle  Put on makeup  Eat or drink anything  Clean up the crime scene