As the summer winds down, some of us may be looking forward to our teens and young adults going off to college. It can be a hard and exciting time for all involved. What classes will they take, will they get along with their roommate, and will you cry when you leave them to fend for themselves as they spread their wings. One thing you may not think about is, will your teen or young adult be sexually assaulted? This can include rape, sexual assault, sexual contact, or sexual harassment. Sexual violence is one of the most personal and invasive expressions of violence deeply affecting all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, ability levels, socioeconomic statuses, and sexual orientations.
The following tips may reduce your risk for many different types of crimes, including sexual violence:
- Know your resources.
- Who should you contact if you or a friend needs help? Where should you go?
- Stay alert.
- When you’re moving around on campus or in the surrounding neighborhood, be aware of your surroundings.
- Do you have a spare key, have a friends number memorized in case your phone dies, spare cash in case you need a ride home. Do you know where campus security is located?
- Be secure.
- Lock your door and windows when you’re asleep and when you leave the room. Be careful about posting your location on social media.
