Domestic Violence Safety Planning - Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services

Safety
Planning

For Domestic Violence Victims

Tips to Protect Yourself in a Violent Relationship

A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that can help avoid dangerous situations and provide ways to remain safe while staying in a relationship, planning to leave, or after you have left the relationship. Safety planning is not a simple process. Each situation is different and complex. Following all of these techniques may not guarantee safety, but will go a long way towards providing a safer environment.

Safety Planning for Victims

Access to Exit

If an argument seems unavoidable, try to have it in a room or area where you have access to an exit. Try to stay away from the bathroom, kitchen, bedroom or anywhere else where weapons might be available.

Practice Your Plan

Practice how to get out of your home safely. Identify which doors, windows, elevator, or stairwell would be best.

Have a Bag Packed

Have a packed bag ready and keep it at a relative’s or friend’s home in order to leave quickly.

Talk to Neighbors

Identify one or more neighbors you can tell about the violence and ask that they call the police if they hear a disturbance coming from your home.

Code Word

Devise a code word to use with your children, family, friends, and neighbors when you need the police.

Safe Place to Go

Decide and plan for where you will go if you have to leave home (even if you don’t think you will need to leave).

When in Danger

Use your own instincts and judgment. If the situation is very dangerous, consider giving the abuser what they want to calm them down. You have the right to protect yourself until you are out of danger.

Support the Cause!

Just like any home, we have constant basic needs such as cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, and coffee. We gratefully accept donations of these items and more. Please call ahead to arrange a time to drop off donations – 920-235-5998.