Sexual assault is a serious issue that affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. As such, it is crucial to take steps to protect yourself against it. Let's explore some practical approaches to help you stay safe from sexual assault.   

Be Aware of your Surroundings 

The first step in protecting yourself from sexual assault is to be aware of your environment. Pay attention to who is around you and the potential risks associated with certain situations or people. If you feel unsafe, trust your gut instinct and leave the situation as quickly as possible. It's also important to be mindful of who you are with and never put yourself in a position where you could potentially be taken advantage of. Avoid going out alone at night, especially if you're in an unfamiliar area or if there are not many people around.  

You Are Entitled to Say “No!”

It's also important to practice good communication skills when protecting yourself from sexual assault. For example, if someone is making unwanted advances or pressuring you into doing something that makes you uncomfortable, speak up and tell them "no" firmly and clearly. Explain why you don't want to do whatever they are asking, and make sure they understand that your decision is final. It might help to practice saying "no" in different scenarios before heading out so that you know what to say if the situation arises.   

 Learn How to Defend Yourself

Another way to protect yourself from sexual assault is knowing how to defend yourself physically if necessary. Taking self-defense classes can give you more confidence in your ability to fight off an attacker should one arise. Additionally, consider carrying a personal alarm or pepper spray for added security when going out alone at night or in unfamiliar areas where there may not be many people around.   

Have a Support System 

It's also important to have support systems in place should something happen. For example, ensure that friends and family know about any suspicious activity or uncomfortable scenarios that have happened recently so they can look for warning signs and contact authorities if needed. Additionally, ensure that anyone who has experienced an incident of sexual violence knows about available resources like counseling services and support groups so they can talk through their experiences with trained professionals who can help them manage trauma associated with the event(s).   

Practice, Practice, Practice! 

Finally, it's important to remember that no one deserves or asks for sexual assault; it's never the victim's fault, no matter the circumstances leading up to the incident(s). Practicing these safety tips can help reduce your chances of becoming a victim but ultimately, no one has control over another person's actions, so being aware of your environment at all times is vital when it comes to preventing sexual violence against yourself or anyone else around you!