Every two minutes in the U.S., someone is sexually assaulted. Sexual assault is one of the most under reported crimes, with 60 percent still being left unreported (Some victims do not report the incidents to law enforcement, but they do seek help from agencies like Safe Harbors or they go to the hospital for treatment.).
In 2003, nine out of 10 victims were female leaving one in every 10 victims to be male. Approximately 2/3 of rapes were committed by someone known to the victim.
More than 50 percent of all rape/sexual assault incidents were reported by victims to have occurred within 1 mile of their home. Four in 10 take place at the victim’s house, two in 10 take place at the home of a friend, neighbor or relative. While 43 percent of rapes occur between 6 p.m. and midnight, 24 percent occur between midnight and 6 a.m. The other 33 percent take place between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Sexual assault can happen to anyone: children, students, mothers, working women and grandmothers. Women can be raped by their husbands and prostitutes can be raped. If the sexual contact is not consensual, that is rape.
Here are a few ways to keep yourself safe and more alert of your surroundings.
Be alert, be aware of your surroundings, don’t let alcohol or drugs cloud your judgment. Trust your instincts, if you feel uncomfortable or uneasy in a situation, leave. Know your neighbors so you have someone to call if you are frightened or uncomfortable. If a window is broken or your door is open, do not go into the house. Call the police from a cell phone, public phone or a neighbor’s house. Be aware of isolated spots, walk in groups, park in well-lit areas, carry a whistle on your key chain and blow it if you feel threatened or if you believe you’re being followed. Don’t hitchhike and don’t pick up hitchhikers. If an assault does happen, scream — be loud, try to discourage your attacker from following.
If the attacker threatens you with a weapon, you may have no choice but to submit, do whatever it takes to survive. Go to the hospital emergency department or your own doctor immediately. Bring someone with you for support and request a rape crisis counselor.
Preserve all evidence. Don’t shower, bathe, change clothes, brush your teeth, douche, or throw anything away until you are advised to do so. Physical evidence is so important to the investigation of your case and the apprehension of your attacker. Get counseling to help deal with feelings of hopelessness, anger, fear and shame. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or if you have questions, Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes may be able to help. Please call our hotline numbers. In Yates County, call 315-536-2897.
Darcey Sylvester
Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes
