How to Prevent Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assualt

With high school seniors graduating and going on to college in the coming weeks, parents and young adults alike should know how to prevent sexual assault. Not only are one in five college-aged females affected by sexual assault, but rape and sexual assault rates are about 10 percent higher in the summer (U.S. Department of Justice). If we know how to prevent sexual assault, that shocking number can be reduced. By educating yourself on drug-facilitated sexual assault, you can avoid becoming a victim. Keep in mind that alcohol is the most used drug to inhibit a person’s ability to control their actions. We recommend parents have this conversation with their children so they might prevent this situation, and remind them that sexual assault is never the victim’s fault. 

We also encourage you to follow these tips from the Drug Enforcement Administration: 

• Do not take drinks from people you don't know or from a container you did not open yourself. Do not share or exchange drinks. Insist on watching the drink that is being poured.
• Do not ever leave your drink unattended. If you realize your drink may have been tampered with, discard it immediately.
• If you notice your drink has an unusual appearance, taste or texture, immediately discard the drink.
• Watch out for your friends, and always arrive as well as leave together. If a friend seems to be acting out of character, get them to a safe place immediately.
• If you think that you or a friend may have been drugged or sexually assaulted the morning after, get medical help immediately. Be specific with the doctors so they may provide the best care.
• Sexual assault can have psychological, emotional, and physical effects on a survivor; these effects are not always easy to deal with, but they can be managed with the right help and support. Learning more can help you find the best form of care to start the healing process.

For more tips, please visit the Florida Sheriffs Association's Crime Prevention Tips.