Preserving Evidence

It is hard to know what to do, how to feel, or what your options are after a sexual assault. Please know that you’re not alone. Below are some things to keep in mind. If you are in immediate danger or seriously injured, call 911.

  1. Your safety is important. Are you in a safe place? If you’re not feeling safe, consider reaching out to someone you trust for support. You don’t have to go through this alone.
  2. Remain calm and alert.
  3. Do NOT change clothing, brush your teeth or hair, shower, bathe or douche, apply medications to any injuries unless absolutely necessary.
  4. Do NOT disturb the area where the assault occurred.
  5. Keep all items you wore at the time of the incident in a paper bag (not plastic).
  6. Call someone, a friend, family, health services, counselor, crisis intervention services
  7. Write down as much as you can remember.

Please visit RAINN's page on After a Sexual Assault for more information. 

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