MUNCIE, Ind.– College students across the nation are at a higher risk for sexual assaults and an increase in alcohol consumption during these first six weeks of classes, known as the Red Zone. This increase is thought to be a result of the newfound freedom freshman student’s encounter.
Ball State health educator, Julie Sturek held a press conference discussing these two topics within the Red Zone: how to party smart and how to communicate consent.
If you’re planning on partying, party smart. Sturek says eat a meal before drinking, know who is throwing the party you’re attending, know your limits, keep track of your drink cup at all times, know how you’re getting home afterwards, give someone a time to expect you home and tell them where you’re going, remember it’s okay to say no to someone offering you a drink, and trust your instincts. Because of alcohol consumption, individuals are at a higher risk of being sexually assaulted due to lowered inhibitions.
There are three elements of consent: verbal, sober, mutual. The verbal element is where a “yes” must be heard; the absence of no does not mean yes. If a person is intoxicated, they are unable to give consent under the law. Consent must also be mutual.
If you or someone you know is sexually assaulted, there are rape study kits available for free. However, these kits must be completed within 96 hours of the rape, though the victim has up to a year to decide if they would like to press charges. A rape kit can be requested at the campus health center, as well as local hospitals and clinics. The nurses who conduct these study kits are sexual assault nurse examiners who have more training than regular nurses. Even though these kits are available, a person should not be forced into having one done.
“Rape is about power,” Sturek explains, “They [the victim] have already had their power taken away. Give them some power back. Let them make whatever decision they want to make.”
Always be aware of the signs of alcohol poisoning if you or your friends are drinking. Some of these signs include vomiting while “sleeping,” not responding to shouting or shaking, unable to stand or be awakened, slow breathing, and a slow pulse rate. If any of these signs are evident, call police immediately.
Roll the person on their side once the police have been called. Continually monitor them every 20 minutes and check that they’re still breathing and have a pulse. Do not put them in a cold shower or cover them with a blanket like myths suggest. Only cover them with a sheet and do not give them food or liquid.
Police are trained to deal with drinking and sexual assaults. Ball State enforces the good neighbor policy and says not to worry about a misdemeanor about drinking; a person’s safety is more important.
Party smart students. Be aware of the elements of consent and the signs of alcohol poisoning.