Planning for your safety and your children’s safety is critical. It may be helpful to discuss a safety plan with a Domestic Violence Victim Advocate. Advocates are available for ongoing support and help at community-based agencies and in many law enforcement and prosecution agencies. A safety plan may include the following:
Planning Ahead
Recognize the signs of abuse.
Develop a plan with your children.
Teach them how to call 911.
Have a safe place to go where the abuser can’t find you.
Talk to an advocate at a community agency
Make copies of important papers and hide them
Have important phone numbers available.
Pack and hide important items in an overnight bag for you and your children (i.e., clothes, papers, medication).
Put aside money and spare keys.
Consider getting a Domestic Violence Protection Order.
Use a safer computer that can’t be monitored by the abuser.
During an Incident
Call for help (9-1-1)! When calling from a cell phone, say your location first.
Get out if you can.
Bring important items listed above.
If you Can’t Leave the Situation
Call for help (911)!
Avoid the kitchen, bathroom, and garage.
Avoid rooms with only one exit.
In your House
Change locks, secure doors and windows, change passwords on accounts.
Arrange to have someone stay with you.
Change your phone number.
Notify trusted friends, family and neighbors.
At the Workplace, School & Public Places
Inform your work, daycare, school, trusted family, friends and neighbors.
Give them copies of Protection/No Contact Orders.
Change your daily routine.
Plan ahead for unexpected contact with the abuser.