THE DUBLIN RAPE Crisis Centre (DRCC) is urging students to read its Staying Safe Tips before celebrating today’s results.

The tips were first published in 2008 and since then the DRCC says there has been “a steady decrease in the numbers of victims accompanied by DRCC to the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit in the Rotunda Hospital in August – from the very high number of victims of 40 in 2008″.

Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, Chief Executive of DRCC said: “We also know that the celebrations can leave some young people, as a result of drinking too much alcohol, vulnerable to the predators who will take advantage of them physically and sexually.

We urge parents, teachers, communities and the class of 2014 to take a few minutes to read the Staying Safe Tips devised in consultation with young people and many other interested parties to help and support to warn but not to blame.

“It is possible to have a great time and to let your hair down but not to let your guard down.”

Staying Safe Tips

1. Look out for each other
2. Do not get separated from your group
3. Do not drink to excess and keep your drink in your hand at all times
4. Do not accept a drink from someone you have just met
5. Ask a friend to mind your drink if you have to leave
6. Stay in popular places and do not go to remote places
7. Nominate a Designated Minder for each group of 6 (in the same way as Designated Drivers are used)
8. Share taxis and lifts
9. If you have to travel alone make sure you phone ahead to where you are going and in the hearing of the driver give your estimated time of arrival
10. Make sure your mobile is charged at all times
11. Be aware that having sexual intercourse with a person without their consent constitutes rape
12. The age of consent in Ireland is 17 years
13. Key the National 24 hour helpline 1 800 77 88 88* into your phone 
14. Report any crime to the Gardai and seek medical help
15. If you need any help or are unsure of what to do, call the National 24 hour Helpline 1 800 77 88 88 where you will get support and guidance from a trained person

Read: Over 2,100 people called rape helpline over Christmas 2012>