Reducing the Risk of Acquaintance Sexual Assault - From the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (Rainn)

• Don't leave your beverage unattended or accept a drink from an open container.
• When you go to a party, go with a group of friends. Arrive together, watch out for each other, and leave together.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Don't allow yourself to be isolated with someone you don't know or trust.
• Think about the level of intimacy you want in a relationship, and clearly state your limits.

(Retired) Chief Ron Sloan says that bystanders need to play a more active role intervening when they become aware of a sexual assault.

"There are a number of tips bystanders can follow, but I believe it's imperative to speak-up and avoid being silent," said Sloan "Even if it involves questioning a family member, friend or classmate who has been abusive toward a female in any way; if you don't let someone know there is a problem, there's a likelihood they'll continue to perpetuate the cycle of violence."

"Communities can play a role in reducing the number of sexual assaults occurring amongst us," said Cynthia Stone of the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault. "Number one is for them to be aware of the crime of sexual assault in their community and to educate themselves about this issue, and to learn bystander intervention tips as well as support organizations focusing efforts on sexual assault prevention and intervention."

Services for Victims of Sexual Assault

"In some communities there are sexual assault response teams comprised of police investigators, victim advocates and hospital personnel who come together to address the crime of sexual assault, especially those involving victims who are children," said Nancy Koester from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

In Arvada, the Arvada Child Advocacy Center has served thousands of children in its 10 years of existence giving sexual assault teams a safe and friendly setting to make the investigative experience for a child sexual assault victim less traumatic.

Not only do organizations such as the National Children's Alliance (see related links) help children affected by sexual assault, there are a number of groups working to bring awareness and hope to adult victims of sexual assault as well.

"One of the tremendous services offered by local sexual assault organizations is that victim advocates are available to be with the victim during an exam or during an interview with police," said Koester from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. "These advocates are not only there to offer support to sexual assault victims, but to also help them process their emotions as well as understand the investigative process."

In addition to the services offered by victim advocates through sexual assault response groups, police departments (including the Arvada Police Department) utilize victim advocates who also serve as a resource to sexual assault victims and their families.

"Just as in any other crime, there are some things people can do to protect themselves from becoming a victim. You do your best to keep someone from coming into your house, but when a criminal is intent causing damage or causing you harm, that we understand it is never, ever the fault of the victim," said Sloan

If you have been sexually assaulted, RAINN offers these tips:

• Find a safe environment - anywhere away from the attacker. Ask a trusted friend to stay with you for moral support.
• Preserve evidence of the attack - don't bathe or brush your teeth. Write down all the details you can recall about the attack & the attacker.
• Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline, operated by RAINN, for free, confidential counseling, 24 hours a day: 1-800-656-HOPE, or a local organization there to assist victims of the crime of sexual assault.
• Get medical attention. Even with no physical injuries, it is important to determine the risks of STDs and pregnancy.
• Report the rape to law enforcement authorities. A counselor can provide the information you'll need to understand the process.
• Remember it wasn't your fault.
• Recognize that healing from rape takes time. Give yourself the time you need.
• Know that it's never too late to call. Even if the attack happened years ago, the National Sexual Assault Hotline can still help. Many victims do not realize they need help until months or years later.

* From statistics provided through the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault

Important Numbers:

Rape Assistance and Awareness Program (RAAP) - Office: (303) 329-9922

Sexual Assault Crisis Center - Hotline: (303) 322-7273; Spanish: (303) 329-0031; TTY: (303) 329-0023

National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1-800-HOPE
Moving to End Sexual Assault (MESA) - Office (303) 443-0400

Resources:

10 Things Men Can Do To Prevent Gender Violence, By Jackson Katz