Domestic Violence Safety Plan

Having a safety plan could be life saving. The resources here can help you make a safety plan that works best for you.

For life threatening emergencies call 911

Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 500-1119


Safety During An Explosive Incident

  • If an argument seems unavoidable, try to have it in a room or area that has an exit.
    Also avoid the bathroom, kitchen or a place near weapons.
  • Practice how to get out of your home safely. Identify which doors, windows,elevator or
    stairwell would be best.
  • Pack a bag and keep it hidden but accessible to leave quickly.
  • Identify a neighbor you can tell about the violence and ask they they call the police if
    they hear a disturbance.
  • Devise a code word to use with your children, family, friends and neighbors when you
    need the police.
  • Plan where you will go even if you don’t think you will need to.
  • Use your instincts and judgement. If the situation is dangerous, consider giving the abuser
    what they want to calm them down. You have the right to protect yourself.
  • Always remember – You do not deserve to be hurt or threatened.

Safety When Preparing To Leave

  • Call the Domestic Violence Center and make a safety plan.
  • Determine who you might be able to stay with or whom might lend you money.
  • Leave money, an extra set of keys, copies of important papers and extra clothes with
    someone you trust so you can leave quickly.
  • Keep a cell phone ( the DV Center can give you a 911 cell phone ) or phone card handy
    with the DV center number for emergencies.
  • Review your safety plan often. Remember – Leaving is the most dangerous time.

What You Need To Take When You Leave:

  • Identification ( Driver’s License, Passport, Green Card, Social Security Card
    Birth Certificates or Work Permit ).
  • Money/Checkbook/Debit or Credit Cards.
  • House Deed, Lease or Rental Agreement.
  • Home/Medical Insurance Papers.
  • Medications.
  • Cell Phone & Charger.
  • Address Book.
  • Medical & School Records.
  • Divorce Papers.
  • Personal Items ( Jewelry, Change of Clothing, Toiletries ).
  • Toy or Pillow for Child’s Comfort.
  • Other_____________________________________________________

Safety In Your Own Home

  • Discuss a safety plan with your children.
  • Tell your neighbors and landlord that your partner no longer lives with you
    and they should call the police if they see him near your home.
  • inform your child’s daycare or school etc. about who has permission
    to pick up your children.
  • Change locks, codes, etc. and buy additional safety devices.

Safety with a protective order
( Injunction For Protection Order or IFP )

  • Keep your protective order/IFP with you at all times. When you change
    bags, the IFP should be the first thing in.
  • Call the police if the batterer violates the order.
  • Have a safety plan for the time until police arrive.
  • Tell family, friends and neighbors that you have a protective order/IFP in effect.

Safety At Work And In Public

  • Decide who at work you will tell about your situation. Inform all security persons
    about the protective order/IFP and provide a picture of the batterer.
  • Have someone screen your calls. Save harassing voice mails.
  • Have a safety plan for leaving work. Leave with others. Vary your route home.
    Keep your cell phone handy and charged.

Your Safety And Emotional Health

  • If you are thinking of returning to an abusive situation, discuss it with
    someone you trust or call a DV Center Hotline.
  • If you have to communicate with your partner, determine the safest way
    to do so.
  • Let others help you. Recognize your strengths.
  • Read and get information to help yourself feel strong. Go to a
    DV support group for at least 2 weeks.
  • Talk to someone you trust.

If You Are A Teen In A Violent Dating Relationship

  • Decide which friend, teacher, relative or police officer you can tell.
  • Contact an advocate at court to decide how to obtain a Protective Order/IFP
    and make a safety plan.

For life threatening emergencies call 911

Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 500-1119