How to Report Suspicious Individuals to Avoid Sexual Assault

Crime can strike anywhere at any time. It's important to stay alert and to report suspicious individuals immediately. Here's how.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Stay aware of not only dark corners and streets, but also the behavior of your peers in any social situation.

2. Avoid being alone with anyone who makes you uncomfortable, even if that person is an authority figure. If you sense an element of sexual harassment in his or her behavior, report it to a supervisor or administrator.

3. Stay with your friends if suspicious individuals are in your midst and then use your cell phone to call someone who can come get you. In more threatening situations, don't hesitate to call the police. Always fill out a report, so there will be a record of any incident. This can help in legal proceedings if anyone else becomes a sexual assault victim of this person in the future.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes just taking out your cell phone and looking vigilant will be enough of a deterrent to a suspicious individual.
• Know the phone number for your local campus police or safety officers. Otherwise, do not hesitate to call 911 on your cell phone to summon the police.
• If someone is standing uncomfortably close to you in order to make you feel uncomfortable, blocks your way, or stares at you in an attempt to make you feel less powerful, don't be afraid to report the person to the nearest local authority.