Many people feel that giving people guidelines about things that can be done to stay safe actually shames them and makes them feel like avoiding rape is all about having people act “the right way,” and that if they make a misstep, it is basically their fault that they got raped. This is not the intention of this article. This article intends to empower people by giving them some sensible advice on how to avoid danger. However, women are not the only gender to be raped. Men can be raped, but it just isn’t as prevalent. Society doesn’t believe “petite little women” can rape “big strong men”, and yet it still happens.

When you’re in a social situation with someone you know, be extra careful and don’t fully let your guard down unless you feel truly safe with the person. Even then, rape can occur. Know that if your gut tells you the situation is not okay, you should leave as soon and as safely as you can. Date rape is also extremely common – according to one study, nearly 1/3 of rapes are committed by a date. [3] X Trustworthy Source Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network Largest anti-sexual assault organization in the US providing support and advocacy for survivors Go to source When you’re dating someone new, understand that no absolutely means no, and don’t ever let anyone make you feel guilty about knowing what you do and don’t want. Don’t be afraid to communicate your needs clearly and loudly, if necessary.

Scope out your surroundings during the day. Whether you’re working in a new place or new to campus, make sure you learn the safest way to walk from place to place. This means staying under well-lit lights, walking in places where people tend to be around, and even being near blue light emergency call boxes, if your campus has them.

If someone unknown tries to approach you, try de-escalating the situation by saying, “I’m sorry, but I can’t help you. " Continue to say this if they keep pursuing you. [8] X Expert Source Joseph BautistaSelf Defense Trainer Expert Interview. 30 April 2020.

Attackers look for the weakest victims. If they see that you are highly vigilant and walking with purpose, they will be less likely to attack you than if you’re texting and not looking where you’re going, or rocking out to your new favorite song on your phone. [11] X Expert Source Joseph BautistaSelf Defense Trainer Expert Interview. 30 April 2020.

If you’re walking down a dark street and have the feeling that the person behind you is following you, cross the street in a diagonal and see if they do the same. If so, then walk towards the middle of the street (but not so much that you can get hit by a car) so that you’re more likely to be seen by an oncoming car that could help you and scare away the potential attacker.

Some people will also say that dressing provocatively invites rapists. Avoid this kind of anti-humanist thinking as much as you can.

Some studies show that yelling “Fire!” instead of “Help!” or “Call 911!” can actually be more effective in getting the attention of bystanders. You can try this tactic as well, but others feel that it may be difficult to remember to yell fire instead of to call for help in the moment. [15] X Research source

The eyes and throat are also great weak points to hit. [17] X Expert Source Joseph BautistaSelf Defense Trainer Expert Interview. 30 April 2020.

If you are in a place where you can’t run, notice your surroundings and leave a mark on them if you can. Rapists have been caught because their victims left identifiable teeth marks, nail marks, or DNA in the cars or rooms where they were assaulted.

“I brought you some water. " “Do you want to get some air?” “Are you doing okay? Would you like me to stay with you?” “I love this song! Let’s go dance. " “My car is out back. Would you like a ride home?” “Jessie! Oh my gosh, it’s been so long! How have you been?” (This works even on strangers. Unless they’re too drunk to understand, they’ll happily play along in order to get rid of the predator. )

“Leave her alone. She can hardly stand on her own. My friends and I will walk her home. " “Hey, he said no. He’s clearly not into it. " “Excuse me, sir? Your car is being towed. "

Tell the host or bartender what is going on. Enlist friends (your own, or friends of one of the parties). Call campus safety, tell a security guard, or call the police.

Before you leave, locate your friend and see how they’re doing. Don’t leave unless you’re confident the situation is safe and they’ll be able to get home without a problem. If your friend seems drunk or on their way to getting there, see if you can convince them to come home. If they refuse, stay at the party until they’re ready to go.

If you were personally attacked by the person in question, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to publicly “out” the rapist. It’s undoubtedly a very brave act, but your life will be deeply affected by your decision, so it’s not a choice most people make lightly. [20] X Research source However, even if you don’t want to make things public, warning people you know against spending time alone with the person will help prevent potential rape.