April Safety Tips, Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month

Bobcat Nation: April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, and we want to provide you with some important information.

First and foremost, you can report sexual assault to any Georgia College & State University faculty or staff member and receive help,

If you or someone you know is the victim of or have information about a sexual assault, we have resources here at GCSU to assist you. Our Counseling Department, Community Advisors and Community Directors can assist.

Incidents can be directly reported to the Title IX Coordinator at 478-445-8292 or titlelx@gcsu.edu. Our CARE Management Services and our CARE Team can assist in the form of counseling and referrals. They can be reached at 478-445-7475 24 hours a day, seven days a week and at counseling.services@gcsu.edu.

Preventing sexual assault involves a combination of personal safety strategies, awareness, and creating environments that discourage such behaviors. While no one is ever responsible for being assaulted, these measures can help reduce risk and foster safety:

Personal Safety Measures

1. Trust your instincts.

• If something feels off or unsafe, remove yourself from the situation as soon as possible.

2. Stay aware of your surroundings.

• Avoid distractions like texting or using headphones in unfamiliar or isolated areas.

• Be conscious of exits and safe locations when in public spaces.

3. Stick with a group.

• Use the buddy system, especially in social settings. Look out for each other and ensure everyone gets home safely.

4. Set boundaries.

•  Communicate your limits and comfort levels in relationships and social interactions.

5. Be cautious with alcohol and drugs.

• Keep your drink in sight and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.

• Be aware of your alcohol intake and its impact on decision-making.

6. Have a safety plan.

• Share your plans with a trusted friend or family member, including your expected location and return time.

• Carry items like a charged phone, emergency contacts and safety apps (e.g., Noon light).

Environmental Measures

7. Choose well-lit areas.

• Stay in well-lit, populated areas when walking alone or waiting for transportation.

8. Secure your space.

• Lock doors and windows at home, work or in your car.

• Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.

9. Know your resources.

• Familiarize yourself with campus or community safety services, such as escort programs or emergency blue lights.

10. Speak up.

• If you witness questionable behavior, intervene safely or contact authorities.

Communication and Awareness

11. Educate yourself and others.

• Learn about consent, personal rights and how to recognize unsafe situations.

• Promote discussions about respect and boundaries in your community.

12. Attend self-defense classes.

• Consider learning basic self-defense techniques to boost confidence and preparedness.

13. Advocate for change.

• Support policies and programs aimed at preventing sexual violence and holding perpetrators accountable.

14. Report suspicious behavior.

• Alert authorities if you observe behavior that could pose a threat to someone’s safety.

Remember, the responsibility for sexual assault lies entirely with the perpetrator. These measures are about minimizing risks, but systemic change and education are essential for creating a safer environment.

The Georgia College & State University Department of Public Safety Officers are on duty 24/7 and here to help you no matter what at any time. If you have any questions need any type of service, or are the victim of a crime, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 478-445-4054, public.safety@gcsu.edu or 911.

Go Bobcats!