By Shanna Nielsen

Beginning the first day of fall semester and running until Thanksgiving, freshman women are at the highest risk for rape or sexual assault. At USU, this period is referred to as "the red zone" and several campus organizations are taking extra steps this year to raise awareness.

"Because it's the first semester and new students are trying to find a place and fit in, they may be willing to take greater risks than they would at home," said Mary Doty, USU counseling center director. "Also, they may assume that there is no difference between a university campus and their own close-knit neighborhood so they aren't paying attention to the behaviors and motives of those around them."

This problem is not specific to USU, either. Colleges and universities across the country typically implement some kind of program around this time encouraging students to be cautious as they adjust to new people and new surroundings.

"When it comes to rape most people think of the offender as someone hiding in the bushes or they picture the guy as Hollywood portrays him -- unemployed, unshaven, wearing a tank top or drunk," said USU Lt. Steven Milne. " In reality, most rapes are committed by someone known to the victim and in a location the victim would never suspect, like their apartment."

To try to educate more students about the red zone, USU has implemented SAAVI (Sexual Assault and Anti-Violence Information), a new program which will provide an on campus response line for those who are victims of rape, sexual assault or other violence. There will also be an office on campus that deals primarily with these issues.

"The SAAVI coordinator can help the victim through the process of reporting it and/or getting counseling," said Steve Mecham, USU police chief, "but a victim will not be forced to do anything she/he does not want to do."

Students and teachers can help, too. For starters, Mecham says that students should make sure that their friends are not left alone at parties. Also, Milne urges, become educated; find out what the facts are to get rid of the myths, such as the one that says victims are somehow at fault.

"The issue is much bigger than red zone, it's about how men and women talk with and relate to each other," Doty said. "Talk about the issues rather than sweep them under the rug."

In addition to attending presentations around campus and reading pamphlets distributed by SAAVI, female students can become more prepared if they find themselves in a violent situation by enrolling in RAD, a self-defense course for women.

"I would like to see all incoming freshmen women enroll in the RAD class," Milne said. "It teaches self confidence and practical hands-on skills."

Although RAD is a women-only course, there are several programs targeted at men. Panel discussions are geared toward men, several fraternities invite officers to speak to the men and the police department gives speeches to athletes regarding sexual assault.

"To prevent rape, we have to reach men-- in a way that does not alienate men," Doty said. "Men have to be involved in speaking out about sexual violence toward women-- and other men-- in the classroom, in the locker room, at parties, whatever."

According to Mecham, USU police receive an average of two reports of rape each year, which is below the national average. However, many rapes go unreported.

"In my 20 years of law enforcement, I have arrested church leaders, police officers, Scout leaders, fathers, college professors and business leaders," said Milne. "They are very good at manipulating people and they appear to be very trusting which makes it difficult for the victim to report the crime."

If a woman is raped, she shouldn't shower or wash her clothes. Ideally, says Doty, a woman should call 911 immediately, but friends and family shouldn't try to force the victim to do anything. Calling the SAAVI hotline (797-7273) is also a good place to start.

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