4 ways to prevent sexual assault during the holiday season

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The Christmas holiday season is getting closer and closer, and because at Christmas parties, there are usually lots of people; strangers, extended family, members of your immediate family, friends of your parents and siblings, etc, there is a high risk of sexual assault in this season. As result, this is a good time to arm you with ways to prevent yourself from getting or being sexually assaulted during the holidays.

 

Sexual assault is simply any type of sexual activity or contact that you do not consent to. Sexual assault can happen through physical force or threats of force or if the attacker gave the victim drugs or alcohol as part of the assault. Sexual assault includes rape and sexual coercion.

 

You can prevent yourself from getting sexually assaulted by:

 

1. Trusting your instincts. According to an article posted on medlineplus.gov and last updated on 3rd December, 2020, trusting your instincts always helps. If something doesn’t feel right, try to remove yourself from the situation. It’s OK to lie or make excuses if it will help you get away.

 

2. Avoid being alone with people you do not know or do not trust. Go out with friends, or keep in contact with someone you know during the party. Look out for one another, and don’t go somewhere alone or leave a party with someone you do not know or feel comfortable with.

 

3. Stay and try to appear aware of your surroundings. Do not cover both of your ears with music headphones.Keep your cell phone charged and with you and make sure you have cash or credit cards for a cab ride home, in case. Also, stay away from deserted areas.

 

4. Avoid drinking too much so you don’t become vulnerable to sex predators. Open your own drinks and keep them close to you. Don’t accept drinks from someone you do not know as someone could drug your drink, and you would not be able to tell because you can’t smell or taste date-rape drinks. If you think you have been drugged, tell a friend and leave the party or situation and get help right away.

 

These are definitely good tips and practicing them will help you prevent sexual assault this holiday season and even beyond.