09/05/2025
College should feel safe, but the first months of the semester, known as The Red Zone, can potentially be the most dangerous.
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.
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.
To read more, visit: https://mountnittany.org/news-stories/health-and-wellness/campus-sexual-assaults/
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. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
College sexual assault remains urgent — especially during the “Red Zone.” Learn key stats, prevention strategies and support resources for survivors.