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Date Rape

Rape is sudden and terrifying.  It happens to both women and men.  It occurs in all neighborhoods, schools, and in many situations.  The rapist may be a stranger more often the perpetrator in someone the victim has known and trusted.

Acquaintance Rape is any sexual act that is forced upon you by someone you know whether intimately or casually.

KNOW THIS... If you say "NO" and that is not honored, it is rape.  YOUR BODY BELONGS TO YOU.  YOU DECIDE THE KIND OF PHYSICAL CONTACT YOU HAVE WITH SOMEONE.

REDUCING YOUR RISKS:

bulletKnow that you have the right to say no.
bulletBe aware of an express your feelings assertively.
bulletSay no when you mean no; say yes when you mean yes.
bulletIf you feel threatened, take action and get away.
bulletTrust your instincts.  If something feels wrong, it probably is.
bulletBe alert to what's going on around you.
bulletDevelop relationships with people who treat others with respect.
bulletBe aware of the role that alcohol can play.

Learn and use self-defense techniques.  Your chances of preventing rape improve if you resist, scream, fight back, or run.

If you don't resist, scream, fight back, or run, IT IS STILL RAPE!!

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE RAPED:

bulletGet to a safe place.
bulletCall a family member or friend that you trust to come and stay with you.
bulletCall the Police.  Rape is a crime.
bulletPreserve all physical evidence in a PAPER BAG.
bulletDo not change clothes.
bulletDo not shower, bathe, or douche.
bulletGet to a hospital emergency room for medical care.
bulletCall the SCCFF HOTLINE and an advocate will meet you at the hospital.

How To protect yourself from DATE RAPE DRUGS (Ruffies or Canines):

  1. Do not drink beverages that you did not open yourself.
  2. Do not exchange or share drinks with anyone.
  3. Do not take a drink from a punch bowl.
  4. Do no drink from a container that is being passed around.
  5. Do not leave your drink unattended.
  6. Do not drink anything that has an unusual taste, appearance, or unexplained residue.
  7. Do not mix alcohol and drugs.
  8. If someone offers you a drink from the bar, accompany the person to the bar, watch the drink being poured and carry the drink yourself.

STAY SOBER.  Alcohol and drugs correlate highly with rape.  If you are assaulted when drunk or high, do not hesitate to get help.  It is still not your fault and is a crime

REMEMBER... You did not ask for it.  You are not to blame.  Walking alone, speaking to strangers, kissing a friend or a date, drinking in a bar, dressing the way you want or riding home with someone are not crimes.