Missy Blog

This is a scary topic of discussion but sexual predators are everywhere. What’s even scarier is that they may be someone you know and think you can trust. Any time you are out you are potentially at risk. You don’t even need to be on a date. You may just be a house party or club with friends minding your own business.

Date and acquaintance rapers are sneaky. Some start off very sweet and charming, gaining your trust then by the end of the evening they are pressuring you well beyond your comfort limit. Others take and easier and much more dangerous approach: drugs. The number one date rape drug is alcohol but many other drugs that are colorless and odorless can be slipped into you drink, even if you’re drinking just water. These substances can act in various ways, making victims confused, disoriented, helpless, unconscious, or even comatose. When mixed with alcohol they can even be lethal. There are three main date rape drugs. Rohypnol, nicknamed “roofies,” is a powerful drug that will cause confusion, fatigue and memory black-outs; GBH, also known as “Ecstasy” is very dangerous because it produces euphoria and sexual inhibition. You may find yourself in a rape situation and be so high you that you unwittingly consent. The last but certainly not least of the three major date rape drugs is Ketamine, also know on the street as “Special K.” Ketamine is a horse tranquilizer and it is extremely hazardous to humans. It causes hallucinations, paranoia and in some cases, paralysis.

Your best plan of action is being prepared. Always know where you’re going and how you’re getting home. And yes, ALWAYS tell your parents where you will be.  They may not always be able to get through on your cell.

If you are on a “blind date” or a first date, try to go with another couple that you know. This will not only protect you but also serve as an icebreaker.

If you are at a party never show up alone. There is power in numbers. Be cautious about getting into a car with someone you do not know well, no matter how charming he seems.  If a person insists or pressures you to accept a ride, say not thank you and walk away!

Remain aware and in control of yourself. Do not consume alcohol. However, it you do drink, even if its soft drinks, don’t take your eye off it for a second. Put in two straws or do something that distinguishes your drink from someone else’s or you may end up taking a substance meant for someone else. Ideally, try not to put your drink down at all. If you’re drinking bottled water, replace the cap between sips. This seems like a big nuisance but it’s very easy and soon you will do it without even thinking.

Avoid letting your date take you to remote, or dark places. Don’t let your date take you to his home or to someone’s house you don’t know. Stay in well-lit public places where other people are near by.

If you feel you’re being pressured into unwanted sex, you’re probably right.  If you feel threatened, take action before the potential attacker does. Define what you want from a relationship and say what you mean. “No!” means “no.” Say is with force and demand that you be respected. If things escalate beyond your control, yell, scream, fight and run away. Most importantly TELL! It doesn’t matter who the creep is. Tell your parents, police, and school administrators. Don’t let him get away with it. Only you have the power to prevent date rape and preparation is the first step to prevention.