As many as 400,000 fans are expected to descend on the New York metropolitan region for Super Bowl XLVIII, to be held February 2 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. A full lineup of high-profile, big-ticket parties and concerts is scheduled to begin in Manhattan during Super Bowl week. Bars, clubs, concert venues and restaurants all over the tri-state area will get in on the pre-Bowl excitement as well. While such a major event will give the New York metro area a chance show its best to the nation, the influx of people, excessive drinking and drug use that accompany the biggest sporting event of the year also will bring the opportunity for increased crime and violence (including sexual violence) to those living in, working in and visiting the area.
Safety Tips
Victim services experts suggest the following guidelines to reduce your risk of assault and increase your sense of safety:
1. Trust Your Instincts
They are usually correct. If you question your safety, do not hesitate to call 911 or to seek help from a bystander.
2. Plan Your Route Along Well-Lit and Busy Streets
If you suspect you are being followed, stay away from quiet blocks and head for a store you know to be open.
3. Be Alert and Aware of Your Surroundings
Keep your head up when walking alone and do not wear headphones or display valuables. Have your keys ready before you reach your door and stay alert as you enter the building.
4. Only Accept Drinks from a Server
If you plan to drink alcohol in a public place, only accept drinks from a server and stay with a friend.
5. Be Wary of Getting into a Medallion or Livery Cab Alone
Consider sharing a cab or car service or getting a ride from a family member or friend. If you are going to walk home, walk with a friend.
6. Consider a Self-Defense Course
The Center for Anti-Violence Education offers free and low-cost courses for women, youth, LGBT communities and survivors throughout New York City.
If You Witness Harassment or Assault
If you witness harassment or an assault, experts suggest the following:
1. During the act of harassment, look for someone who might assist (a police officer, MTA employee, store owner, etc.) and call 911.
2. After the harassment, ask the person who was harassed if they are okay and if there is anything you can do to help. If there is — provide that help.
3. After the harassment, offer to escort the individual to the police station or another safe location.
4. Contact the police to report the harassment.
5. If you witness a sexual assault and it is not safe to intervene, call 911 immediately (you do not need to give your name and may remain anonymous).
Victim Services Resources
Within Mount Sinai Health System
• The Crime Victims Treatment Center at Mount Sinai Roosevelt and Mount Sinai St. Luke’s: 212-523-4728 (Uptown Office); 212-523-8200 (Midtown Office)
• The Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Program at Mount Sinai Hospital: 212-423-2140 (Manhattan); 718-736-1288 (Queens)
• Victims Services Program at Mount Sinai Beth Israel
In New York City:
• NYC Police Department Special Victims Report Line: 212-267-RAPE
• Safe Horizon’s 24-hour multilingual Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-621-HOPE
• The New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault website provides a comprehensive list of victim services