DATE RAPE INFORMATION

Acquaintance Rape

• Know what you want sexually; set sexual limits; don't give mixed messages.
• Trust your "gut feeling" about situations to avoid.
• Be clear and responsible in your communications with others.
• Be forceful, firm, and assertive.
• Be aware of nonverbal clues that can alert you to a problem.
• In communicating your unwillingness to engage in an activity, reject the activity, not the person.
• Remember, silence is not consent.
• Don't assume the other person knows what you do or do not want.
• Use the buddy system - watch out for your friends.
• Don't lose control - alcohol and other drugs affect your judgment.
• Avoid secluded places at the beginning of relationships.
• Do not assume that if you are with a friend or an acquaintance, nothing bad will happen.
• Devise an action plan in advance for what you will do if confronted with a situation of possible acquaintance rape.
• Remove yourself from the situation at the first sign that you are feeling controlled or unsafe.
• Become comfortable with the idea that you may have to be "rude," make noise, yell, etc. to remove yourself from a possible acquaintance rape situation. Do not worry about hurting the other person's feelings. Never go to a bar, party, or social event alone.

Date Rape Drugs

• Use the buddy system. Do not leave your friends.
• Get your own drink.
• Watch your drink being poured and do not leave it unattended.
• Don't drink from a large open container, like a punch bowl.
• Don't drink anything that has an unusual taste, especially a salty taste.
• Don't share drinks.
• Don't leave a party with someone you just met.
• Warn others about high-risk situations.