What to Do & Where to Go

What to do if you have been sexually assaulted

Even if you are not sure about what happened or don’t want to report the assault crime to the police, we recommend the following:

• Get to a safe place
• Know that what has happened to you is not your fault
• Seek immediate attention by calling 911 or go to the nearest emergency department
• Don’t bathe, change your clothes or even brush your teeth—even if you don’t think you want to report to police
• Try not to urinate; if you have to, do so in a container
• If you change your clothes, don’t wash them and bring them with you in a bag
• Even if you know you don’t want to report to the police, it is good to get medical attention for pregnancy concerns and STI prevention

Why we ask you not to bathe or go to the bathroom

Bathing may remove valuable evidence that can be collected just in case you choose to report the crime to the police. Evidence may also be collected from clothing. Going to the bathroom also removes evidence from your body. It is always your choice to report to the police.

Financial Assistance After Evidence Collection

Financial assistance is available to survivor victims of sexual assault from the WI Crime Victims Compensation Fund. A Forensic Exam that includes evidence collection is required for you to qualify for financial assistance. Our Client Services Coordinator, Erin, will help you with all the paperwork and any questions you may have after your exam.

Where to Go if you have been sexually assaulted

• Call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency department
• Call the SART 24/7 line 715-425-6443 or 866-650-7278 and one of our Forensic RN’s will meet you at the SART center or at one of our Care Partner Hospitals — it is your choice