August is bystander awareness month. We may not realize how helpful we can be just by being more aware of our surroundings and taking notice of suspicious behavior in friends, family, and even strangers. Did you know 65% of victims that come forward say that no one helped them? It can be difficult to know how to act in a situation where you see or suspect danger such as domestic violence or sexual assault.
Here are some tips on how you can help:
If you see something, say something. Trust your instincts, if something seems like a bad or suspicious situation, it likely is. Intervene in any way you can.
Be direct. If someone looks like they may be in danger, ask if they need help.
Get help. You don’t have to approach the situation alone, enlist a friend, colleague, neighbor, employee, etc.
If you see, hear, or suspect that someone is in immediate danger, call 911 immediately.
These are just a few things you can do to help in the situation. A bystander is
defined as someone who is present but doesn’t take part. Don’t be a bystander, intervene!
The 911 Cellphone Bank provides emergency devices to those in need. Your donations help victims of abuse and other vulnerable members of our community. Do you know of anyone who could benefit from our program? Do you have any devices to donate? Participating in our program is free and easy, and you can feel happy knowing you are doing your part to help your community! Contact us to donate your smartphone, tablet, iPad or other electronics.