Responsibility for sexual misconduct rests with those who commit such acts. Risk reduction tips are not intended to blame the victim. There are precautions we all can take which may limit our exposure to situations which may result in non-consensual sexual acts.

• Communicate limits/ boundaries and respect the limits/boundaries of others.
• Clearly and firmly say “No” to a sexual aggressor.
• If possible, leave the physical presence of a sexual aggressor or otherwise violently aggressive person.
• If someone is nearby, ask for help.
• Take responsibility for your alcohol/drug use. Acknowledge that alcohol/drugs lower sexual inhibitions and may make you vulnerable to someone who sees an impaired person as a sexual opportunity.
• Do not take advantage of someone’s intoxication or altered state even if alcohol or drugs were consumed willingly.
• If you choose to share intimate images, pictures, videos or content with others, even those you trust, be clear about your expectations regarding how the information may be used, shared or disseminated. If such information is shared with you, do not share it with others.
• Take care of friends and ask that they take care of you.
• As a sexual initiator, clearly communicate your intentions and give your sexual partner the opportunity to clearly communicate the same.
• Do not make assumptions about consent, sexual availability, sexual attraction, how far an interaction can go or about physical and/or mental ability to consent.
• Remember that consent should be affirmative and continuous. If there is any question or ambiguity, you should proceed as if you do not have consent.
• Consider mixed messages from a partner to be an indication that sexual conduct should stop so that better communication can occur.
• Recognize the potential for a sexual partner to feel intimidated or coerced by you as a result of a power advantage, your gender, your demeanor or your physical presence. Do not use or abuse that power.