RAINN's 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
“America’s 100 Best Charities” by Worth magazine. RAINN created and
operates the National Sexual Assault Hotlines (800.656.HOPE and
rainn.org) in partnership with over 1,100 local rape crisis centers
across the country. The hotlines have helped more than 1.2 million
people since 1994. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual
assault, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice.
For more information about RAINN, please visit rainn.org.
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