WUNRN
http://www.rainn.org/news-room/sexual-assault-news/2009-spring-break-safety-tips
RAINN's - Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
2009 SPRING BREAK TIPS FOR STUDENTS
March 6, 2009 – (Washington, DC) – RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), the nation’s largest anti-sexual assault organization, today released important safety tips for students traveling for spring break. In addition to keeping track of travel documents, and remembering to pack the SPF, students should know how to identify and avoid possibly dangerous situations. Being aware of possible risks is often the first step in staying safe, especially when in a new environment.
College
women are four times more likely to be sexually assaulted than any other age
group. That's why it's so important that students are aware of possible risks,
and know how and where to get help if they need it. There are some very basic
steps students can take to maximize safety.
RAINN's Top Spring Break Tips include:
1. Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe in any situation, go with your gut.
2. Even
though you're on vacation don't let your guard down completely.
Vacationing at a spring break destination can create a false sense of community
with your fellow spring-breakers. In reality, the vacation destination is just
like any city filled with strangers; treat it as you would any unfamiliar
environment. Don't assume that someone you've just met will look out for your
best interests.
3. Form a
buddy system.
When you are out with your friends, arrive together, check in with each other
and leave together. Don't wander off alone. Make a secret “butt in” signal with
your friends, talk about when the friend should intervene and agree to use it
for uncomfortable situations. Don’t be afraid to let a friend know if something
is making you uncomfortable or if you are worried about your or your friend’s
safety.
4. Avoid
being alone or isolated with someone you don’t know and trust.
If someone you don’t know or trust asks you to go somewhere alone, let him or
her know that you would rather stay with the group. Use any excuse you can
think of to get out of a difficult situation.
5.
Practice Safe Drinking.
Don't accept drinks from people you don't know or trust. Never leave your drink
unattended, and if you do lose sight of it, get a new one. Always watch your
drink being prepared, and when possible try to buy drinks in bottles, which are
harder to tamper with than cups or glasses.
6. Be
aware of your surroundings.
Check out your surroundings before you go out and learn a well-lit route back
to your hotel or rental property. Avoid putting music headphones in both ears
so that you can be aware of what’s going on around you, especially if you are
walking alone. Be alert and aware at all times.
7. Secure
your room or property.
Test the window and door locks of your room or rental property. Keep the doors
locked at all times, even when you are in the room. Don't open your door to
anyone you are not expecting, or let anyone in your room until they have
identified themselves and their purpose. This includes resort or cruise
personnel. Remain alert and cautious, particularly if unusual activity is noted
in or near your lodging accommodations.
8. Make a
Plan.
Establish a meeting spot in the event your friends get separated. Before you go
out, identify a safe way to return to your hotel or rental property.
9. Be
Prepared.
Always carry emergency cash and keep phone numbers for local cab companies
handy. Have your charged cell phone with you. If your cell phone does not work
outside of the country, consider renting one that does for the duration of your
trip.
10.
Report suspicious behavior.
Tell resort or cruise personnel if anyone, including a fellow guest, passenger
or crewmember, approaches you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Sexual assault is a crime of motive and opportunity. Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to prevent an attack. If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, please know that the assault is not your fault and that you are not alone.
In the
event that you or someone you know is sexually assaulted, find a safe place,
and contact the police immediately. To speak with someone who can help you
through the aftermath, and accompany you to the hospital, call the National
Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE). If you are traveling abroad, contact the
State Department for international resources: http://travel.state.gov/index.html
Free, confidential support is available 24/7 through the National Sexual Assault Hotlines at 800.656.HOPE, and online at www.rainn.org
About
RAINN
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation’s largest
anti-sexual assault organization and was named one of “
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