Reducing Risk of Being Sexually Assaulted

COMMUNICATE YOUR BOUNDARIES

Communicate your boundaries clearly and firmly - discuss what you are and are not interested in doing sexually and speak up if you feel your limits are being violated.

BE WILLING TO SAY NO OR LEAVE IMMEDIATELY

If you encounter unwanted advances, be willing to say no or leave immediately (without second guessing yourself). Remember, people have the right to stop and say no at any point in a sexual encounter for any reason.

AVOID ISOLATED LOCATIONS

Avoid going to an isolated location (e.g., room, basement) with someone, since isolation is typically involved in acquaintance rape situations.

MAKE A PLAN

Bring your cell phone and cash along with you when you go out, stay with your friends, and make a plan together about how you will get home. In Oxford, Miami's Nighttime Door to Door (NDD) service (513-529-2277) provides a safe escort for students from 6pm-2am Monday through Wednesday and until 4am the remainder of the week. A recorded message will provide information on the service, including operating hours and direct cell phone contact with the van. Students calling NDD may also ride the Miami Metro when their destinations are on or near a Metro route. Additional information on NDD and Miami Metro is available on the Parking Services Web site.

UNDERSTAND THE ABILITY TO CONSENT

Reduce or eliminate the use of alcohol, since it heightens vulnerability to sexual assault by slowing responses, confusing communication, interfering with self-defense, and making it difficult to escape. Avoid individuals who attempt to get you drunk or high.

WATCH OUT FOR "DATE RAPE DRUGS"

Be aware of the possibility of “date rape drugs”. Do not accept beverages from open containers and do not leave your drink unattended.

BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS

If you need to walk alone at night, stay on well-lit paths and be aware of your surroundings. If you are followed, don't go home. Use one of the emergency phones located on campus or go to the nearest public place and call 911 or the police (on the Oxford campus: 513-529-2222; Oxford police: 513-523-4321).

TRUST YOUR INTUITION

If you sense something's wrong, it probably is. Be willing to scream or yell if you sense danger; do not be afraid of drawing attention to the situation.

USE GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Always lock your doors and windows when sleeping or alone.