You Can Reduce the Risk

There are several ways to reduce the risk of date rape, says Elizabeth Davenport, USC assistant dean for student affairs:

* Don’t leave a drink unattended and don’t drink a beverage if you don’t know where it came from. “We acknowledge people might have difficulty with that,” she says, since it can be socially awkward. But she still believes it is worth mentioning.

* Know your tolerance limit for alcohol.

* If you do go out drinking, go with friends so you can watch out for each other.

* If you go out alone, let a friend or relative know where you are going and your approximate time of return; call if you are running late.

* Don’t go home with someone you just met.

* Take your own car on the first few dates. “A man worth dating will respect your wish for safety,” Davenport says.

* Don’t date men who belittle women.

* Don’t assume someone who has come to your dormitory room or apartment wants to have sex. If you are getting mixed signals about sex, stop and talk about it.