Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a crucial time to share knowledge, spread awareness, and provide essential resources to those in need. One such crucial resource is a Safety Plan.
A Safety Plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave, or after you leave. Safety planning involves how to cope with emotions, tell friends and family about the abuse, take legal action, and more.
Below is an outline of what a Safety Plan is, how to create one, how to keep it private, and what to do if you need help.
What is a Safety Plan?
A Safety Plan is a comprehensive and detailed plan designed to prioritize your safety and the safety of your children and pets in situations of domestic abuse. It’s crucial for victims of domestic violence, providing them with structured guidance and a set of actionable steps that enhance their security in various situations.
Creating a Safety Plan
While You’re in the Relationship:
- Identify Safe Areas in the Home: Know where to go if an argument occurs. Avoid small, enclosed spaces or rooms with weapons.
- Develop a Code Word or Signal: Establish a word, phrase, or signal you can use with friends, family, or coworkers to indicate that you are in danger and need help.
- Keep Essential Items Accessible: Have important items and documents readily available, so you can leave quickly.
When You’re Preparing to Leave:
- Choose the Right Time: Plan to leave at a time when your abuser is least likely to be around.
- Pack a Bag: Have a bag packed with necessary items (clothing, medications, etc.) and keep it in a safe, easily accessible place.
- Pack important documents- like Driver’s License, Social Security Card (for you and all your children), birth certificates, Passports, Immigration Documents, etc
- Secure Funds: Save money or make arrangements for finances.
- Know Where to Go: Plan where you will go and how you will get there. Avoid places where the abuser might find you.
After Leaving the Abuser:
- Change Locks: If you’re staying in your home, change the locks as soon as possible.
- Obtain a Protective Order: If necessary, get a protective order and keep it on you at all times.
- Change Routines: Alter your daily routines to avoid encountering the abuser.
Keeping Your Safety Plan Private
- Use a Safe Device: When researching or creating your safety plan, use a computer or phone that the abuser does not have access to.
- When you get a new cellphone do not download anything from the Cloud. Tracking apps could be in your cloud account.
- Protect Your Online Information: Change passwords and enhance online security.
- Inform Trusted Friends or Family: Let them know about your safety plan so they can also remain vigilant.
Seeking Help
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (US): Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org.
- Local Shelters and Organizations: Find local resources that can provide assistance.
- Law Enforcement: In an emergency, call 911 or your local authorities.
Remember, you are not alone, and creating a Safety Plan is a significant step towards ensuring your safety and wellbeing. Utilize the resources available and prioritize your security and peace of mind this Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond. Your life matters, and taking action to protect it is not just your right, but a crucial step towards a future free from abuse.
