Safety Planning

Creating a safety plan can be a helpful tool to reduce the risk of harm during an abusive relationship, when planning to leave, and after. Below are a few helpful tips:

Ways to stay safer in an abusive relationship:

• In an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.
• Identify areas of risk in your home (rooms with no exit, rooms with only one exit, rooms with weapons).
• Identify safe areas in your home. If an argument occurs, try to move to the identified safe area.
• If incidents of abuse occur, try to protect your head as much as possible.
• Connect with a local domestic violence program and/or legal resources to help prepare for when you’re ready to leave.

When you’re ready to leave:

• Let someone you trust know that you’re preparing to leave.
• Turn off GPS and location settings on all devices.
• Change passwords to emails, banking information, social media and other platforms that may be accessible.
• If you have children, communicate with the school’s counselor and social workers to establish a safety plan.
• Know your resources and rights. Legal resources are available.
• Seek support — leaving an abusive relationship can be the most dangerous time and sometimes feel impossible. We are here to support you.

How to stay safe when reaching out for support:

• Discuss a safety plan with trusted friends and family.
• Create a safe word or code phrase that will let them know that you need help.
• If possible, find a safe space to hide a back-up or emergency phone. Many agencies, including Sarah’s House, can often assist with 9-1-1 only devices that can be used in an emergency.
• Use community organizations like a local library to search for resources and contact support and If you’d like support creating a personalized safety plan, contact our 24-HR Crisis Hotline and speak to an Advocate.

Items to think about taking or keeping with a trusted person or in a safe location:

• Cell phone / tablet
• ID / Driver’s License
• Birth certificates for you and your children
• Social Security cards
• School records
• Medical records
• Car title / registration
• Credit / debit cards
• Lease/rental agreement or deeds
• Work permits
• Passport
• Insurance papers
• Jewelry
• Medications
• Financial documents
• Sentimental items in an emergency, prioritize safely getting out. Many items can be replaced.