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A Tip From Risk Management
Amanda Calton
Risk Management Officer
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of "America's 100 Best Charities" by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE,
online.rainn.org & rainn.org/es) in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
RAINN compiled the following list of safety tips for those heading back to campus ('tis the season!), but they are applicable in wide ranger of situations. Keep them in mind any time you are in a heavily populated or unfamiliar location and make sure you are always looking out, not only for yourself, but for each other.
1. Trust your instincts and be yourself.
If you feel unsafe, or even uncomfortable, in any situation, go with your gut. Don’t worry about what others think; your own safety comes first.
2. Use your cell phone as a tool.
Make sure it’s fully charged before you leave home. If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, shoot a quick text for a “friend-assist.“Make a plan before you go out just in case your phone dies, so you can meet up with your friends at a specific location at a certain time.
3. Be careful when leaving status messages online and when using the “check-in” feature on social media.
Leaving information about your whereabouts reveals details that are accessible to everyone. Use common sense so that someone can’t track your every move. If you wouldn’t give the information to a stranger, then don’t put it on your online profile.
3. Don’t be afraid to hurt someone’s feelings.
If you find yourself in an unsafe situation it’s OK to lie.Make up an excuse as to why you have to go. It’s better to make up a reason to leave than to stay in a possibly dangerous situation. Your safety comes before someone else’s feelings.
4. If you see something, say something!
Intervene if a situation seems questionable or if someone’s safety is at risk.By taking action you can prevent a crime from being committed.Remember you can alsocontact your resident assistant or campus police.
5. Stick with your friends, and watch out for each other.
Arrive together, check in with one another throughout the night, and leave together. Think twice about going off alone and if, for whatever reason, you have to separate from your friends, let them know where you are going and who you are with.
6. Drink responsibly and know your limits.
Don’t accept drinks from people who you don’t know or trust, and never leave your drink unattended. If you have left your drink alone, get a new one. Always watch your drink being prepared. At parties, stick to drinks you got or prepared yourself instead of common open containers like punch bowls.
7. Watch out for your friends.
If a friend seems out of it, is way too intoxicated for the amount of alcohol they’ve had, or is acting out of character, get him or her to a safe place. If you suspect that you or a friend has been drugged, call 911. Be explicit with doctors so they can administer the correct tests.
8. Be aware of your surroundings.
Whether you’re walking home from the library or at a party be mindful of potential risks. Get to know your campus and learn a well-lit route back to your dorm or place of residence. Think of a safe exit strategy.Are there people around who might be able to help you? Is there an emergency phone nearby?