The Red Zone: Understanding the surge in campus sexual assaults

College campus sexual assaults remain a serious issue across the United States. Statistics show that 1 in 4 females and 1 in 16 males experience sexual assault while in college. Only 20% of female student victims, and a fewer number of males, report sexual assault to law enforcement and, in many cases, victims personally know their offender.

This worrying situation highlights the urgent need to educate and protect students. This is especially important during “The Red Zone.”

Red zone dangers and contributing factors

The Red Zone starts at the beginning of the school semester and lasts until Thanksgiving break. During this time, more than 50% of all campus sexual assaults occur. This vulnerable window coincides with increased social activity, parties and transitioning into college life, particularly for freshmen.

Young students often seek connection, belonging and identity, which can lead them into unfamiliar environments without established support systems. Female freshmen are at the highest risk. This is partly because they know little about campus culture and their surroundings — they also lack trusted peer networks.

The surge in alcohol and drug use during this period further complicates safety. While alcohol doesn’t cause sexual assault, it is a major contributing factor. It’s estimated that in at least half of college sexual assaults, one person involved was drinking alcohol. This makes education around responsible substance use and clear communication even more critical.

Consent, education and bystander intervention

Understanding and respecting consent plays a vital role in preventing sexual assault. Consent is defined as mutual and voluntary agreement — and it cannot be given by someone under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Many campuses now prioritize awareness and prevention through orientation sessions and first-semester seminars that cover consent, campus policies and available resources. Promoting a culture of mutual respect starts with honest conversations about boundaries and safe sexual practices.

Bystander intervention is another key strategy in prevention. Students are encouraged to look out for one another and take action when they witness concerning behavior. Whether it’s creating a distraction, stepping in directly, notifying authorities or enlisting help from others — intervening can protect vulnerable peers and reinforce a community of care.

Reporting and support for sexual assault

For survivors of sexual assault, a range of support services is available both on and off campus. These resources are designed to provide comprehensive care, from immediate medical attention and forensic evidence collection to ongoing psychological support and legal advocacy.

Campuses typically offer various resources for survivors:

• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
• Title IX office for reporting and support
• Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) at campus health centers
• Victim advocacy services

Off-campus resources include:

• Local rape crisis centers (e.g., Centre Safe in State College, PA)
• National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE)
• RAINN online support
• Mount Nittany Health’s specialized sexual assault response team

Preventing sexual assault on campus

While institutions bear the primary responsibility for ensuring safety, students themselves can take proactive steps. Using the buddy system, trusting their instincts, downloading university safety apps and remaining aware of their surroundings all contribute to a safer experience. Understanding how alcohol affects judgment is also essential in avoiding risky situations.

Peer support is equally powerful. Friends should look out for one another at social events, intervene when needed and keep conversations open around sexual activity and consent. By cultivating a community of awareness and responsibility, students can help minimize harm and stand up for one another.

At Mount Nittany Health, our sexual assault response team offers a secure space where survivors can seek medical care, report their assault and collect forensic evidence. This trauma-informed approach ensures that victims feel safe and supported. Additional resources are available through Centre Safe, Penn State’s Victim and Survivor Support and Advocacy and Penn State’s CAPS.

If you or someone you know has experienced dating or domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please call Centre Safe at 814.234.5050 or toll-free at 1.877.234.5050.