Bystander Engagement
Some simple steps to becoming an active bystander:
- Notice the situation and be aware of your surroundings.
- Interpret it as a problem. Ask yourself, “Do I believe someone needs help?”
- Feel responsiblee to act. Educate yourself on what to do.
- Intervene safely. Keeping yourself safe while taking action is key.
How to engage safely:
- Bring in others to help when the situation may be potentially dangerous.
- Ask a person you are concerned about if he or she is okay. Provide options and support.
- Distract or redirect individuals in unsafe situations.
- Ask the person if he or she wants to leave.
- Call ³Ô¹ÏÌìÌà Police (570) 941-7777 or Scranton Police (911).
What can my friends and I do to encourage safety?
- Have a plan. Talk to your friends about your plans and intentions before you go out.
- Watch out for others. If you are concerned about someone, offer your support.
- Diffuse situations. If you see a friend coming on too strong to someone who may be too drunk to make a consensual decision, interrupt, distract, or redirect the situation. If you do not feel comfortable doing so, get someone else to step in.
- Trust your instincts. If a situation does not feel right to you, trust your instinct and. If possible, remove yourself and others from the situation.
Information is based on Bystander Intervention research being completed at ³Ô¹ÏÌìÌà of New Hampshire (Bringing in the Bystander®).