1. Sexual Assault and Abuse
Risk Reduction
and
Seeking Help

2. Sexual Assault – Risk Reduction
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.

3. Sexual Assault – Risk Reduction
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.

4. Sexual Assault – Risk Reduction
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.

5. Sexual Assault – Risk Reduction
Trust your own instincts!

6. Sexual Assault – Seeking Help
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).

7. Sexual Assault – Seeking Help
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.

8. Sexual Assault – Seeking Help
Reporting the assault:
To the police, everything is evidence.
DO NOT:
Shower or bathe
Throw away any clothes worn at 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