The Safety Plan
Creating a safety plan is a crucial step for someone experiencing domestic violence, before, during, or after leaving a DV situation. It involves identifying potential risks and developing strategies to ensure safety during the transition and beyond. Below is a checklist to guide you through the process of creating a safety plan:
Safety Plan Checklist:
Immediate Safety Measures:
Emergency Contacts: Compile a list of trusted friends, family members, neighbors, and local shelters or helplines to contact in case of emergency.
Emergency Fund: Set aside money or valuable items in a safe place that can be accessed quickly in case of urgent need.
Pack an Emergency Bag: Prepare a bag with essential items such as identification documents, medications, clothing, keys, important phone numbers, and any necessary legal documents.
Safe Meeting Places: Identify safe locations where you can go in case of immediate danger, such as a friend's house, a public library, or a community center.
Transportation Plan: Arrange for transportation options, such as rideshare services or public transportation, to ensure you can leave quickly if needed.
Internet Safety: If your internet use is being monitored, take care to regularly delete your history and cookies from your computer, tablet or phone.
Safety at Home:
Change Locks: If possible, change the locks on doors and windows to prevent the abuser from gaining access to the home.
Security Measures: Install additional security measures such as motion sensor lights, security cameras, or a security system if feasible.
Safety Plan for Children: Develop a safety plan for children, including teaching them how to call for help and identifying safe places to go in the home.
Safety Plan for Pets: Arrange for the safety of pets, such as finding temporary shelter or arranging for someone to care for them.
Safety Phone: If you have a separate cell phone, remember to keep it charged, and be cautious of automated alerts sounding off unexpectedly (system tests, weather advisories, Amber alerts ring even if the phone is set to Do Not Disturb). If you have not changed the settings, these alerts may sound off once you turn the phone back on as well. Keep in mind, ANY cell phone can connect to 911, even if it is not currently connected on a plan.
Legal and Financial Safety:
Protective Orders: Consider obtaining a restraining order or protective order to legally prohibit the abuser from contacting or approaching you.
Financial Independence: Work towards financial independence by opening a separate bank account, securing employment, or accessing financial assistance programs.
Legal Assistance: Seek legal advice and assistance to understand your rights, options, and legal protections available to you.
Records: Keep copies of important documents, and keep a notebook to track dates and times of incidents, meetings, appointments. Document everything!
Emotional and Mental Health Support:
Counseling Services: Access counseling or therapy services to address the emotional and psychological impact of domestic violence and develop coping strategies.
Support Groups: Connect with support groups or survivor networks to share experiences, gain support, and access resources. Facebook or Reddit groups can be amazing sources of support, from people who have survived the same thing.
Self-Care Plan: Develop a self-care plan to prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, including activities that promote relaxation, stress relief, and self-compassion.
Emergency Mental Health Resources: Identify emergency mental health resources such as crisis hotlines or mobile crisis teams for immediate support during moments of crisis.
Long-Term Safety Planning:
Safety Planning with Children: Develop a long-term safety plan for children, including custody arrangements, school safety measures, and counseling services.
Relocation Plan: Consider options for relocation if staying in the current location poses ongoing safety risks. Remember that crossing state lines with your children can be considered kidnapping
Safety in Public Spaces: Be aware of safety precautions in public spaces such as workplaces, schools, and community settings, and communicate safety concerns to relevant authorities.
Stay Informed: Stay informed about updates in safety laws, available resources, and support services in your area.