There is no perfect way to protect yourself against sexual assault but the following have worked for many people:
 

• Know you have the right and responsibility to set sexual limits.  Others want and need to know your limits so that they can respect them.  You may have different limits with different people and you limits may change  that’s okay!
• Trust your Feelings.  If you feel you’re being pressured into unwanted sex  you’re right!  If you feel nervous or afraid  pay attention!  Don’t write it off to imagination or paranoia.  And don’t make the mistake of believing that you can’t be victimized.  Don’t be embarrassed to follow your best instincts.  Better silly (and safe) than sorry.
• Communicate your feelings and limits.  Hints and E.S.P. don’t work.  Know the difference between assertive, aggressive and passive behaviors and how that behavior affects others. 
• Passive ~ There people don’t know or don’t state clearly what they want.  They give their power away.  They are good at beating around the bush or giving hints.
• Aggressive~ These people are only concerned with their own wants and needs.  They attempt to take power and control away from other people and may cause them injury in the process.
• Assertive~ There people have an awareness and respect for their own rights as well as rights of others.  They maintain their own power an expect other to do the same.  They are tactful but very direct about their needs and wants. 
• Be Assertive

Get angry~ When someone does something to you that you don’t want.  But don’t name call or put the other person down.  State your feelings.

React immediately ~ with some kind o negative response.  (You may want to practice this by yourself or with friends).

Additional Safety Tips

Be aware of yourself.  Present yourself as if you have a sense of purpose and direction  even if you don’t.

Be aware of your surroundings. Not being alert or being self-absorbed may actually attract an offender.  Note if people are around or if someone is following you.  Make wise decisions not to further endanger yourself.  Don’t hitch hike or stay alone at places where you couldn’t get help if you needed it.

Be aware of people who:

• Sit or stand too close though they are aware of your discomfort
• Block your way
• Speak or act as if they know you better than you know yourself.
• Use physical force to get their way
• Don’t listen to or disregard what you are saying
• Look through you or own to you (power stares)

Walk in the middle of the sidewalk.  It’s safer because you are less easily pulled into cars or alleys.

Always lock your cars and house

Stay around other people and in public places, especially if you are feeling afraid or uneasy

If you are attacked, stay as calm as you can so you can use your brain.  Remember the assailant is afraid too.

Scream “help” or “fire” if there’s a chance others may hear you