Pathways Courses - It Won't Happen to Me:

It Won't Happen to Me:
Substance Abuse-Related Violence Against Women for Anyone Concerned About The Issues

Module 7: Preventing Sexual Assault - Page 2 of 9

Trust your feelings. If you feel you are in danger, you probably are. Get yourself out of danger.
Be aware of what is around you. Know where you are going and stay in well-lit areas as much as possible. This includes parking your car in well-lit areas.
After entering your car, drive away immediately. Do not sit in your car to do things such as look at things you have just bought or count your money.
If you find yourself in danger, blow a whistle or yell "FIRE" instead of "HELP" or "RAPE."¹ People may be reluctant to intervene in an assault but will respond to a more general emergency.
Do not leave a party, concert, game, or other social occasion with someone you just met or do not know very well.
Always travel in groups. Use a shuttle service after dark. Never walk alone at night and avoid taking roads or paths where there are few people.²
Check out a first date or a blind date with friends. Insist on going to a public place such as a movie, sporting event, or restaurant. Carry money for a telephone call and taxi, or take your own car.³
Freshmen should not allow a photo and personal information to be published for distribution to the campus community. Fraternities and upperclassmen have abused this type of publication to target inexperienced freshmen.²
Think about how close you want to get to the person with whom you have a relationship, and clearly state your limits.⁴