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.