Sexual assault is never 100% preventable, but taking certain measures can reduce the chances. Below are proven ways that can reduce the risk of a sexual assault:

  • Be aware of locations and situations where assaults may occur and avoid them as much as possible.
  • If you feel uncomfortable about a person or location, leave immediately.
  • Observe details about suspicious persons, Taking note of a person's size, coloring, hairstyle, facial hair, scars, tattoos, or accent can help you give a good description.
  • List only your initials and last name in the telephone directory or on a mailbox.
  • Install a peephole in your front door and never open the door for strangers.
  • Avoid traveling alone and keep a cell phone nearby to dial 9-1-1 in case of emergency.
  • While at home, lock all the doors and possible entrances.
  • Keep entrances well-lit.
  • Never indicate to a stranger that you are home alone.
  • Get to know your neighbors you can rely on for help.
  • While walking be aware of your surroundings. Walk near the street in a well-lit area.
Protection while you are in your car:

  • Keep your car in good working order and make sure to always have gas.
  • Park in well-lit areas, close the windows and lock the doors at all times.
  • Never pick up hitchhikers.
  • Use extra caution when using enclosed parking garages.
  • Add Law Enforcement and Roadside Assistance numbers into your phone.
  • Purchase a car charger for your phone to use in case of an emergency.
If you are followed:

  • Drive to an open business where you can call 9-1-1.
  • Don't leave you car unless you are sure you can get to a safe place.
If you fear for your safety or fear offender contact, you can seek a sexual violence injunction for protection. To obtain the injunction you or your guardian must report the crime to law enforcement and cooperate in any criminal proceeding against the offender. Filing for a sexual violence injunction is free and our Victim Advocate can assist you with the process.

If you or a  loved one has unfortunately became a victim of sexual assault it is vital to seek medical attention, regardless of his or her decision to report the crime to law enforcement. For the victim's health and self-protection, it is important to be checked and treated for possible injuries, even if none are present, such as an STD. 

While at the hospital a forensic medical exam may be preformed by a sexual assault nurse examiner, sexual assault forensic examiner or another medical professional. This will be to preserve and collect any forensic evidence. Preserving DNA evidence is a key tool for law enforcement's investigation and prosecution of a sexual assault case. It is used to prove that a sexual assault occurred and to show that the defendant is the source of biological material left on the victim's body.

  • Go to a safe place and call 9-1-1  immediately
  • Do not shower or clean your body in any way, and keep the clothing you were wearing at the time of the assault. This will preserve all physical evidence for use in court.
  • If you cannot wait for law enforcement, go directly to the hospital.
Sexual assault, most often in the form of rape, can happen to anyone. To stay safe, always be cautious and aware of your surroundings, Sexual assault are serious and violent crimes, not the expression of uncontrolled passion.