A safety plan is a plan to help to improve your safety before abuse, during a violent incident, and after abuse. This will look different for every person and you are the best person to know what your safety plan should look like. We can assist you with developing a safety plan.
BEFORE
- Identify support systems – neighbors, friends, family, social service agency
- Devise & discuss a code word or signal for help
- Open your own savings account
- Leave money, keys, important documents and extra clothes in a safe place
- Plan where you will go if the situation becomes unsafe
- Develop an escape route
- Teach children to dial 911 and what to say
- Keep a copy of your Order of Protection with you
- Review your safety plan periodically
- Keep a list of your passwords and accounts
DURING
- Stay close to a room or area with an exit
- Stay away from the bathroom, kitchen or weapons
- Get away
- Call 911
- Use your code word or signal for help
- Use your best judgement
- Protect yourself and children until danger level decreases
- If you are caught in a violent situation, make your body as small as possible (become a ball)
- Protect your head and neck with your arms
AFTER
- Get medical attention for injuries
- Save evidence of abuse including: photos, medical records, police reports, torn clothing, and statements from witnesses
- Seek an Order of Protection
- Seek out your support system – neighbors, family, friends, social service agency